Commission Changes to Address Hunting Pressure, Mule Deer Numbers

On Dec. 4, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission set the 2026 and 2027 hunting regulations. In doing so, it made a variety of changes to address concerns about nonresident hunting pressure and mule deer numbers.

“The commission’s action was a culmination of a lengthy process that started this past summer with public meetings around the state,” said Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Christy Clark. “Both the commission and FWP heard a lot of input from hunters, landowners, and the public. This input was critical in the final regulations that were approved.”

It’s important for hunters to...