New License Year Begins

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March 1 was the beginning of a new hunting and fishing license year in Montana. Last year’s licenses expired on Feb. 28.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials urged those who purchase their licenses early in the year—to ice fish, or so they can apply for special permits—to make certain they keep their licenses in a safe place. Last year more than 6,000 deer licenses and 5,500 elk licenses were lost or misplaced. This creates a significant problem for the hunter and could create a situation where a license is illegally obtained and used.

  Here are some handy reminders for the 2005-2006 license year:

* 2005-2006 hunting regulations will be available by the end of March.

* Advertisements once again will be included in the deer, elk and antelope regulations as part of a project negotiated with the 2003 Legislature to generate revenue to offset the cost of the booklets.

* Your state lands access fee is now included in the $6.25 price of the conservation license and allows hunting, fishing and trapping activities on state lands. Those planning to hike, bird watch or otherwise recreate on state lands are still required to purchase the $10 state lands recreational use license.  

* Twenty-five cents from the cost of the conservation license also helps to pay for the search and rescue of lost hunters, anglers and trappers.

* To help protect people’s privacy in the electronic age, when hunters and anglers purchase their conservation licenses, they will be asked if they want their names and addresses included on lists FWP provides to vendors, businesses and others who request such information.

* Hunters and anglers are able to purchase licenses online. Beginning April 1, they will also be able to apply for special permits online. Go to the FWP Internet Hunting page, Obtain a License or go to the Discovering Montana website   under Online Services.

* Young Montanans 12-17, who have successfully completed a hunter safety course and who are purchasing their first ever hunting license will receive a free youth combination license.   This license includes a conservation license, fishing license, upland game bird license excluding turkey, general elk license and deer A license. A state lands permit and hunting access enhancement fee are also included.

* All first time license buyers born after January 1, 1985 must complete a hunter education course before purchasing a hunting license in Montana.

For licensing details and to purchase licenses, contact an FWP license provider or the nearest FWP regional office.