Know the Rules for Hunting on State Trust Lands

HELENA – With the 2015 hunting season now under way, the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) asks hunters and other recreationists get acquainted with the regulations for accessing trust lands before they take to the field.

• Hunters and anglers 12 years of age and older must possess a valid Montana Conservation License to hunt or fish on trust lands. For other types of non-commercial or non-concentrated uses, a separate State Lands General Recreational Use License is required.

• Know where boundaries lie.

• Do not trespass across private land without first getting permission from the landowner.

• The only roads open for vehicle use on trust lands are public roads, such as county roads and state highways, as well as other roads DNRC has designated as open. Off-road use is strictly prohibited.

• Disabled hunters with a Permit to Hunt from Vehicle (issued by FWP) are authorized to drive on any road on state trust lands, except those closed by sign or barrier.

• The discharge of firearms within a quarter-mile of an inhabited dwelling or outbuilding is prohibited without first gaining permission from the occupants.

• Camping is limited to two consecutive days. Campers must stay within 200 feet of a customary access point or navigable waterway. Open fires are prohibited outside designated campgrounds. Pets must be kept on a leash or be under the owner’s control.

For additional information, contact DNRC Recreational Use Coordinator Dan Dobler at 406- 444-9726, or visit the DNRC web at http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/trust/recreational-use-of-state-land.

 

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