Montana Moose

It’s no secret that moose populations in Montana along with most of the West have been on the decline since reintroduced wolf population numbers began their dramatic climb. The statewide permit allocation is now only half of what it was in 2007. Current population estimates are down to a little over 10,000 animals on a statewide scale. There is, however, some good news and reason for optimism regarding the future of Montana’s moose. Regions 1 and 3, the strongholds of Montana’s Shiras moose populations, have finally stabilized, and in region 3, appear to be increasing. Over the past few seasons, regional harvest success in 3 has been amongst the highest in decades and hunters averaged an 88% harvest in 2024. Region 1 reported a 69% overall harvest in 2024, its best since 2015, but well shy of its prime almost 20 years ago. With unseasonably warm temperatures during the rut in 2024, these harvest rates further substantiate the hope that there are brighter days ahead for Montana’s moose hunting.

While this news is encouraging, if you are lucky enough to draw a tag, you still need to be prepared for a long, tough hunt. The hunts available to non-residents this year are averaging over 18 days hunted in region 1 and around 10 days hunted in region 3’s hunts. Many Montana moose hunters make the mistake of showing up on opening day with overly optimistic expectations. Be mentally prepared for a long, tough hunt. With Montana’s long moose season dates, hunters can target one or both of the best time frames to be out hunting. The first is during the peak of the rut in late September and early October. The intensity of the rut is always hit or miss depending on the weather. Cooler temperatures will have bulls much more active and vocal during the rut, especially during daylight hours. The other is during the second half of November when the leaves have fallen off the brush, allowing for better visibility in the brush fields in late fall. A little snow on the ground goes a long way in helping spot moose as well as providing the opportunity to take up a good track.

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