Dates and Deadlines
Montana Hunting Application Deadlines
Application deadlines, draw dates, and points windows for the 2026 application cycle, as published by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
| Date | Deadline | Results |
|---|---|---|
| April 1, 2026 | Elk and deer application deadline | Mid April 2026 |
| May 1, 2026 | Sheep, goat, moose, and bison application deadline | Mid May 2026 |
| June 1, 2026 | Antelope application deadline | Mid June 2026 for archery, mid July 2026 for rifle |
| July 1 to September 30, 2026 | Bonus points only windowPoints only | n/a |
| July 1 to December 31, 2026 | General combination license preference point only windowPoints only | n/a |
Dates are set by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and can change between cycles. Always confirm with fwp.mt.gov before you apply.
How the Montana Draw Works
Bonus points squared, preference points for the general combo license
Montana spreads its deadlines across the spring. Nonresident elk and deer applications are due April 1, the once in a lifetime species close May 1, and antelope applications close June 1. Two separate points only windows run through the fall for anyone who skipped the spring draws.
Montana uses squared bonus points for special permits, which means your name goes in with your point total multiplied by itself, so persistence pays off fast. The nonresident general combination license uses separate preference points. Special permit applications ride on top of the combination license, so the two systems work as a two step drawing, where the combination license unlocks the opportunity to draw a special license.
Epic Outdoors members see draw odds and minimum points for every Montana unit, updated every year, plus the research magazine and one on one help from our consultants. Membership is $150 per year, and the Epic Outdoors app is a free download with a 7 day full access trial.
Montana Draw FAQs
When is the Montana elk and deer application deadline?
April 1 each year for the nonresident combination license draw, with results in mid April.
Does Montana use bonus points or preference points?
Both. Special permits use bonus points that are squared in the draw. The nonresident general combination license uses its own preference points.
When can I buy Montana points only?
Bonus points for special permits are available July 1 to September 30, 2026. Preference points for the general combination license are available July 1 to December 31, 2026.
Can Epic Outdoors apply for me in Montana?
Yes. Our License Application Service tracks all three spring deadlines and both fall points windows for you.
Never Apply Late Again
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