Montana has approximately 23,000 landowners who own nearly 60 million acres of private land, much of which offers excellent hunting opportunities. Hunters must obtain landowner permission to hunt on all private land, which often can be obtained through simple courtesy and communication between the hunter and the landowner. Remember, while orange paint and No Trespassing signs indicate that the land is private, they do not necessarily mean that no hunting is allowed. Ask first, and the gate may open.

Block Management Program

This program is a cooperative effort between FWP, landowners, and land management agencies to provide free public hunting access to private and isolated public land. Click Here for detailed information.

Gaining Permission to Private Land Tips

There are a few things to keep in mind that will greatly improve results when attempting to secure hunting access to private land. Show courtesy to the landowner and make hunting arrangements by calling or visiting at times convenient to the landowner. Whenever possible, plan ahead and secure permission well in advance of the actual hunting date. Provide complete information about yourself and your hunting companions, including vehicle descriptions and license numbers. Explain what type of hunting you wish to do, and and be sure to ask any questions which can help clarify the conditions of access.

Follow the landowners instructions, and bring with you only the companions for whom you obtained landowner permission. Be sure to thank the landowner after your hunt, and consider sending a subsequent note to show your appreciation for being granted the privilege of hunting on private land.

Other Private Land Hunting Opportunities

There are numerous other programs and opportunities for hunting on private lands in addition to the Block Management Program. One of these programs is the conservation easement program which allows landowners to protect traditional farm and ranch land while at the same time allowing FWP to preserve natural resources such as wildlife habitat. Public access to most conservation easements is managed through the Block Management Program. Those areas not managed through Block Management can still be found through the mapping portion of the Hunt Planner. Lands enrolled in the Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program and Migratory Bird Stamp Program also offer hunting opportunities. Contact the Regional Fish, Wildlife and Parks Office in the particular region where you plan to hunt for details about these opportunities. For other private land hunting opportunities contact the Montana Outfitters and Guides Association.