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Just a friendly reminder that this year in Montana, nonresident upland bird hunters cannot start hunting until 10 days after residents begin. This is a new regulation this year and is aimed at mitigating overcrowding in the uplands. Below is the email I received from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Dear License Holder,
New this year, nonresident upland game bird hunters will start the season 10 days later than residents. The new regulation is a result of Senate Bill 514, passed during the 2025 legislative session. It applies to nonresident upland game bird hunters using private lands enrolled in FWP hunting access programs — including block management — or hunting on public lands. The regulation pertains to all upland game bird species except mountain grouse (blue, spruce [Franklin] and ruffed grouse).
Season dates for nonresidents:
Partridge: Sept. 11 – Jan. 1
Ring-necked Pheasant: Oct. 20 – Jan. 1
Sage Grouse: Sept. 11 – Sept. 30
Sharp-tailed Grouse: Sept. 11 – Jan. 1
Before you head into the field, don’t forget to double-check the type of land where you plan to hunt. For more information, see the 2026 upland game bird regulations.
