What are Regulations for Merriam's Turkey Hunting in Montana?

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Licenses and Permits To hunt Merriam’s turkeys in Montana, hunters need a valid resident or non-resident hunting license, a turkey permit, and a Habitat Management and Access Program (HMAP) stamp. The turkey permit costs $10 for residents and $20 for non-residents. The HMAP stamp costs $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents. Hunters can obtain these licenses and permits online or through an authorized license vendor.
Habitat and Seasonal Information Merriam’s turkeys in Montana inhabit a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The general season for Merriam’s turkeys typically runs from April 15 to May 31, with a split season in some areas. Hunters should familiarize themselves with the specific season dates and bag limits for their area of interest. In general, the spring season takes place in areas with abundant food sources, such as green vegetation and insects. Hunters can use a variety of methods to locate turkeys, including scouting, calling, and using decoys.
Hunting Techniques Hunters can use various techniques to hunt Merriam’s turkeys in Montana, including still-hunting, stalking, and calling. Still-hunting involves moving quietly and slowly through the terrain, often using concealment and cover. Stalking involves moving quickly and deliberately to get within shooting distance. Calling involves using a turkey call to imitate the sounds of a female turkey, which can attract a male turkey. Hunters should use a combination of calling and movement to locate and harvest a turkey.