General Deer and Elk Hunting Season Commences in Northwest Montana
KALISPELL — The general deer and elk hunting season officially opened Saturday in Montana’s northwestern region, attracting hunters eager to pursue these iconic species.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) spokesperson Dillon Tabish likened the opening weekend to a bustling ski resort’s first day, noting the excitement and readiness among hunters to engage with the outdoors.
“Everyone’s geared up and eager to get in the field, so we expect a very active start to the season,” Tabish said.
Safety and Regulations Highlighted for Hunters
Tabish emphasized the importance of hunters adhering strictly to the established rules and regulations to ensure a safe and responsible hunting experience for all participants.
“Going over a mental checklist before heading out is critical to maintaining safety and compliance,” he advised.
Wildlife and Season Context
This hunting season is significant for managing healthy deer and elk populations across the Flathead County region and broader northwest Montana. Both species exhibit adaptive behaviors tied to seasonal shifts, especially as they prepare for winter.
- Elk (Cervus canadensis) begin to transition from their late summer diet of grasses to more woody browse as colder weather approaches.
- Mule deer and white-tailed deer experience increased activity and visibility during the rut, impacting hunter success rates early in the season.
- Population surveys by FWP guide hunting quotas to balance ecological sustainability with recreational hunting opportunities.
Effective management and well-informed hunters contribute to maintaining balanced herds and healthy ecosystems in Montana’s diverse habitats.
About the Reporter
By Sean Wells
Additional reporting and sources from: General deer and elk hunting season underway in NW Montana
