2016 licenses go on sale Feb. 1

Montana hunting licenses for 2016 go on sale Monday, Feb. 1. The new rate structure incorporates a number of changes from previous years.

This year hunters must purchase a new base hunting license before buying any state hunting license. The $10 resident license includes the hunting access enhancement fee that was charged separately for $2 last year. The new base hunting license was created instead of adjusting license fees for individual species.

A season-long Montana resident fishing license for 2016 will cost $21, up $3 from last year’s rate. Fishing licenses will no longer be sold in combination with a conservation license – which is required for any hunting or fishing license purchase. The price of a resident conservation license will remain at $8 for all ages.

Under the new structure, most licenses that were free or discounted in 2015 will be charged at half of the standard license cost. Previously, free licenses or a variety of discounted prices were offered to some youth, seniors and disabled sportsmen. In 2016, only military recognition and block management cooperator combination licenses will remain free. FWP is reimbursed by the state general fund for military recognition licenses and block management cooperators provide hunting opportunities for all sportsmen.

Starting Feb. 1, the new fee structure will standardize the definition of youth as those between 12 and 17 years old. This language replaces a number of age categories.

The price of all other resident tags, licenses, drawing fees and permits will remain the same as in 2015.

Licenses will be available at all Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks license outlets.