Elk shoulder seasons to end Feb. 15

First approved by the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission for the 2016 season, shoulder seasons are an opportunity for hunters in hunting districts where elk populations are over objective. For the 2018 season, the commission approved shoulder seasons in more than 50 hunting districts, in six of FWP's seven regions.

Shoulder seasons have specific fundamental objectives and as such, the commission and department are monitoring the success of shoulder seasons in each hunting district to ensure they are meeting those objectives. The success of shoulder seasons in Montana will require the participation and cooperation of everyone – hunters, landowners and the department.

As always, permission is required to hunt on private land.

Hunters should be prepared for extreme cold. In the winter, harsh conditions can be dangerous. Knowledge of the area, weather, route and limitations of your body and equipment can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

For more information on shoulder seasons, including an interactive map of hunting districts with shoulder seasons, look on the FWP's website under Shoulder Seasons, a link to which is on the FWP homepage and the hunting home page.

Shoulder season regulations can vary from district to district. So, no matter where you're hunting – as always – know the regulations.