Tips for using FWP’s Block Management Program
The Block Management Program is a tremendous benefit for hunters and for Montana’s economy. Across the state, block management helps to provide hunters access to nearly 7 million acres of private, state and federal lands.
Hunting and outdoor recreation also contributes billions annually to the state’s economy.
Many hunters have come to rely on block management, but FWP staff still encounter misconceptions about how it works. With that in mind, the agency offers some suggestions that may help hunters better utilize the program.
Access not about big bucks
Bea Sturtz, block management administrative assistant in Region 7, said the most common misconception is the type of information that she can provide to hunters.
“They assume that because we’re with Fish, Wildlife & Parks, we’re going to know where the big ones [bucks] are, but it has nothing to do with that. We’re just here to help people find access to private lands, and I think that gets lost,” she said.
As long as hunters have realistic expectations about what the program can do and are willing to put in the time, Sturtz is confident that they can have a very satisfying experience.
Hunters choose where to go
Some hunters say they will go wherever the staff sends them, Sturtz said, “but it’s up to the hunter to decide where they’re going to hunt because it’s such a big area.”
The staff may ask people where they want to base their hunt, how far they are willing to travel and how much they want to walk. And they do call landowners throughout the season, in part to direct hunters toward better opportunities and to disperse people.
Permission isn’t automatic
Access programs can vary from state to state, and Sturtz cautions hunters that access here is not automatic. “You still have to make that step to get permission,” she said.
FWP provides hunters with contact information for landowners, and then it’s up to hunters to make arrangements. There are two ways to gain permission to hunt: Type 1 BMAs allow a hunter to sign in at a box on site, and Type 2 BMAs require permission from the landowner or a representative. Even then, access is not a guarantee if the landowner is booked or has certain stipulations.
Don’t wait ‘til the last minute to ask
Hunters are encouraged to line up permission as far in advance as possible. Farmers and ranchers don’t always appreciate receiving last-minute calls asking for permission to hunt. These are busy people, and their down time is important. Calling the night before or the morning of your hunt or calling at hours that may not be convenient may not make landowners as receptive as if you had called well in advance and showed preparation. Ideally, you should ask about the best time to contact them for future communications.
If you do end up having to contact someone on short notice, be respectful if they can’t accommodate you; this is a heavily utilized program.
Remember common courtesy
Hunters are asked not to book more than one BMA per day. Sturtz also reminds them to call and cancel a reservation if they fill their tag or change plans, so the landowner doesn’t have to turn other people away. Another tip is to call only at the time designated by the landowner, and to remember time zone differences.
It’s about relationships
Landowners tell staff that they appreciate hunters who don’t take access for granted, are grateful for the opportunity and take the time to build a relationship with them, even if it’s mostly by phone. Some think they get a better group of hunters through the program because visitors have to call first.
In some cases, landowners and hunters form bonds that last for years, Sturtz said. “The program has been around a long time now. You’re looking at 30 years of history that they may have established with a family.”
Keep an eye on weather conditions
In late summer and early fall, fire danger can be a top concern. Be aware that BMAs in areas with very dry conditions and high fire danger may choose to delay hunting access until conditions improve. Those that still allow access do so with the expectation that hunters use the utmost caution with campfires and avoid driving off road. There may be fire restrictions in place in some counties that ban fires and other activities. To see if there are restrictions in place in an are you plan to hunt, visit: fwp.mt.gov/news/current-closures-restrictions
Similarly, if there have been heavy rains, be mindful of leaving ruts and stay on designated roads or trails.
Get a Block Management Access Guide
One thing hunters can do to prepare is order the Block Management Access Guide in advance, which is available in print and online in mid-August. The guide lists participating landowners across the state, along with what types of game their land typically supports. Sturtz said the Hunt Planner on FWP’s website is also a good tool. The Hunt Planner combines updated maps with hunting regulations and statistics. Maps are available online in mid-August but are removed in January.