Montana Bear Hunting
Plan your Montana bear hunt with season dates, license options, and hunting opportunities organized by unit. Browse available private-land hunts and book access directly from landowners.
Last updated by Aricin Rotarius
Find Hunts by Unit
Browse private-land bear hunts across Montana, organized by unit, and book directly with landowners.
Montana Bear Seasons
These dates represent the “general” season dates. Check the individual hunting unit regulations for the most accurate season dates and regulations.
Spring
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Archery
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General
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Montana Bear Licenses
Resident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Bear License | — | — | $19.00 |
A hunter may purchase only one Black Bear License per year. A free Black Bear Identification Test Certificate is required to obtain a license. Valid for an either-sex black bear in all BMUs. | |||
| Black Bear Permit | DrawDeadline April 1, 2026 | — | $5.00 |
Apply by April 1. Allotted by drawing only. Must be used in conjunction with a valid Black Bear License. A permit does not allow the harvest of an additional black bear but allows a hunter to continue hunting in a harvest-restricted BMU after the harvest quota has been met. Bonus points offered for applications. | |||
| Sportsman's with bear | — | Ages 12–17, 18–61, and 62+; Youth, senior, and disabled hunters | $79.50 |
Sportsman's Combination Includes Deer, Elk, State Lands, Upland Bird (excluding turkey) & Season Fishing Licenses. $8.00 or $4.00 Conservation License, $10.00 fee for the Base Hunting License and $2.00 AISPP fee are also required. | |||
Nonresident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Bear License | — | — | $350.00 |
A hunter may purchase only one Black Bear License per year. A free Black Bear Identification Test Certificate is required to obtain a license. Valid for an either-sex black bear in all BMUs. | |||
| Black Bear Permit | DrawDeadline April 1, 2026 | — | $5.00 |
Apply by April 1. Allotted by drawing only. Must be used in conjunction with a valid Black Bear License. A permit does not allow the harvest of an additional black bear but allows a hunter to continue hunting in a harvest-restricted BMU after the harvest quota has been met. Bonus points offered for applications. | |||
| NR Hound License Spring Bear | DrawMarch 1, 2026 – April 1, 2026 | 18 or turn 18 by June 15; 2026 | $250.00 |
Required to use dogs to pursue or harvest black bears. Drawing the week of April 7. If unsuccessful the department will refund the $250 fee. You must hold a Black Bear License valid in at least a portion of the hound area for which you are applying. Spring Black Bear licenses must be returned by April 14 without exception. Application fee is refundable. | |||
| Nonresident Hound License | DrawJuly 1, 2026 – August 1, 2026 | At least 18 years of age or older or turn 18 years of age before or during the season for which the license is issued | $250.00$250.00 application fee |
Required (MCA 87-2-519) for a nonresident to use a dog or dogs to aid in the pursuit or harvest of mountain lions. A holder may only pursue mountain lions or black bears for the purpose of personally harvesting an animal and may not assist any other person in the pursuit of a lion or bear for harvest. Drawing takes place the first week of August. If unsuccessful, FWP will refund the Hound License fee of $250. Application fee is refundable. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Nonresidents can hunt bear in Montana. Black Bear Permit applications are due April 1, 2026, and the permit requires a Base Hunting License, Black Bear License, and Conservation License. Nonresidents who plan to hunt with hounds can apply for a Nonresident Hound License from July 1 through August 1, 2026; it requires a Base Hunting License, Conservation License, and Nonresident Mountain Lion License. Check the current regulations for the licenses and permits required for your hunt.
Black Bear Permit applications are due April 1, 2026, for residents and nonresidents. Applications for the Nonresident Hound License open July 1 and are due August 1, 2026. Check the current regulations for any additional license requirements.
Montana’s 2026 bear season dates are approximate and vary by season. Spring season runs April 15–June 15, archery season runs September 5–14, and general season runs September 15–November 29. Check the regulations for your unit for exact dates and requirements.
See the latest Field Notes from properties offering bear hunts in Montana.
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