Free Fishing, Bird Hunting For Youths, Seniors, And Purple Heart Vets

A new law aimed at bringing Montana families together and honoring wounded U.S. military veterans offers some youths, senior citizens, and Purple Heart vets the opportunity to fish, hunt most game birds, for free in Montana.

The new opportunity, signed into law May 8 by Gov. Brian Schweitzer, provides free Conservation Licenses to resident minors who are at least 12 years old and under 15, and to residents 62 or older. The free Conservation License allows youngsters and seniors to fish and hunt game birds, no including wild turkey in Montana.

The law also provides Montana residents, and some nonresidents, awarded a Purple Heart in service with the U.S. Armed Forces similar opportunities to fish and hunt game birds with a free Conservation License. For nonresidents to qualify, they must be on a trip arranged by a nonprofit organization that uses fishing and hunting as part of the rehabilitation of disabled veterans.

"This free opportunity to enjoy fishing and bird hunting is Montana’s way to tie the generations together, and to pay a small tribute to the troops that have already made the ultimate sacrifice," said Jeff Hagener, director of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

Eligible resident youths and seniors can obtain their free Conservation Licenses at any FWP license provider, including via the Internet for those who have previously obtained an ALS number. This free opportunity will be available through Feb. 28, 2008.

Resident Purple Heart recipients must present their DD 214 or their Purple Heart award at an FWP office to obtain a free Conservation License, and eligible nonresident Purple Heart recipients on a fishing or hunting expedition arranged by a nonprofit group obtain their free license from FWP’s Helena headquarters.

Anyone eligible person who purchased a Conservation License on or after May 8 will automatically receive a refund by mail from FWP Licensing in Helena.