MontanaHB 14669th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)HouseWALLET

Revise hunting license fees to include cranes and swans

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.

License money reserved for wetlands

Beginning March 1, 2026, money from migratory game bird, sandhill crane, and swan licenses goes into a special state account. The department can spend it only to protect, conserve, and develop wetlands in Montana.

Application drawing fees for cranes and swans

Beginning March 1, 2026, if a drawing is required, you pay an application fee to enter for sandhill crane or swan licenses. Residents pay $10 per species; nonresidents pay $50 per species. The fee is charged each time you apply. Paying an application fee does not give you hunting rights or a license.

Higher migratory bird license fee

Beginning March 1, 2026, the resident migratory game bird license costs $10. The nonresident fee is $150.

Separate licenses for cranes and swans

Beginning March 1, 2026, you need a separate license to hunt sandhill cranes or swans. Residents pay $10 per crane or swan license; nonresidents pay $75. You must also buy a migratory game bird license ($10 for residents; $150 for nonresidents).

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Gary Parry
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Mark Noland
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 264 • No: 36

Senate vote • 3/24/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 40 • No: 10

Senate vote • 3/21/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 32 • No: 18

House vote • 2/5/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 96 • No: 4

House vote • 2/4/2025