Thinking about hunting elk, deer, or even mountain lion in Montana? Before you start dreaming about bugling bulls or chasing predators through the snow, you need one critical thing in place first: a valid Montana hunting license and big game tag.
Every year, we get calls from hunters across the country who are excited to book their first Montana hunt. And almost every time, the same question comes up. “How do I apply for a tag?” If you’re not familiar with the state’s licensing system, it can feel overwhelming quickly. That’s where we come in.
At Crazy Creek Outfitters, we guide every client through the licensing process from start to finish. Whether it’s your first time applying or you just want help making sure everything is done right, here’s what you need to know.
Understanding Montana’s Tag System
Montana uses a lottery system for non-resident hunters. That means you cannot walk into a sporting goods store and buy an elk or deer tag over the counter unless you are a resident. Non-residents must apply during the annual draw, which typically runs from early March through April 1.
The two most popular non-resident options are the Big Game Combo (which covers both elk and deer) and the Elk Combo (elk only). These combo tags also include your upland game bird license, fishing license, and conservation stamp.
You apply for the combo license first. Once you draw that, you’re eligible to hunt in general units statewide. If you want to hunt in a special permit district, you must also apply separately for that specific area at the same time.
What Is a General Unit vs. a Permit Unit?
General units are areas across Montana that you are allowed to hunt with a standard combo license. These still offer excellent opportunity and are where we guide the majority of our clients. You can hunt bull elk in general units with good odds and solid success rates, especially when you go with someone who knows the land.
Permit units are managed for limited access and typically offer a higher chance of encountering trophy-class animals. They have lower hunter pressure and tighter quotas. These areas are harder to draw and more competitive. For example, districts with only a few bull tags available might see thousands of applicants.
Our advice is usually to apply for your preferred permit, but also plan on hunting a general unit. If you draw a permit, great. If not, you still get to come out and hunt hard in proven country.
How We Help You With Your Application
When you book a hunt with Crazy Creek Outfitters, we walk you through the entire application process. We explain which tag you need, which districts are best for your goals, and how to apply on time. We also keep track of rule changes from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks so nothing slips through the cracks.
You do not need to navigate the online system alone. We help with everything, from setting up your account to submitting your choices. If you do not draw, we help you roll your deposit forward or pick another species or season that works for your schedule.
We have clients who come to us every year just to make sure their paperwork is done right. It saves stress, saves time, and helps them stay focused on what matters — getting ready for the hunt.
Points and Draw Odds: What You Should Know
Montana uses a bonus point system for special permit areas. Each year you apply and do not draw, you earn a point that improves your chances the next time. These points build over time and can help you eventually draw premium tags in limited-entry districts.
If this is your first time applying, your odds will be lower for permits, but combo tags still offer good chances. In many years, the general Big Game Combo has drawn at 100 percent for first-time applicants.
If you want to increase your odds for a future year, we recommend buying a point during the summer point-only period. That way you keep building your profile even if you’re not hunting that fall.
Deadlines and Important Dates
– Applications for elk and deer combo tags are due by April 1
– Permits for special areas must be submitted by the same April 1 deadline
– Moose, sheep, and goat applications are typically due by May 1
– Mountain lion tags can often be purchased online after drawing season, depending on your residency and unit status
Do not wait until the last minute to apply. The system can get busy, and errors made in a rush can keep you out of the draw. We start working with clients in January to make sure everything is submitted early and correctly.
Mistakes to Avoid
We have seen some tough situations over the years. Hunters forget to apply. They apply for the wrong district. They miss the permit checkbox. Or they apply for the wrong year thinking the system is always open. These mistakes are easy to make, especially if you are used to over-the-counter systems in other states.
Booking with a licensed outfitter like Crazy Creek helps you avoid those headaches. We review every step with you. We double-check your info. We stay on top of the latest FWP updates. Our goal is to help you draw, hunt, and succeed in the field.
Why Planning Early Pays Off
Montana is one of the best states in the West for elk hunting, but it is not a last-minute state. You cannot decide in July that you want to come out and hunt elk that fall unless you already have a tag. That is why planning early is so important.
We recommend reaching out to us in January or February, even earlier if possible. That gives us time to go over hunt options, tag strategies, and what kind of experience you are looking for. Whether it is your first hunt out West or your fifth, the earlier we can start planning, the better the outcome tends to be.
Why Book With Crazy Creek Outfitters
When you book with us, you are not just getting a guided hunt. You are getting a full team in your corner. We help you pick the right hunt, navigate the tag system, get prepared physically and mentally, and show up ready to hunt hard in some of the best country Montana has to offer.
Our clients choose us year after year because we keep it simple. No confusing paperwork. No guesswork. Just honest, experienced guidance from people who know what they’re doing and care about getting it right.
If you are serious about hunting elk, deer, bear, or lion in Montana, let us help you get the tag that gets you there. Reach out early, and we’ll walk you through the rest. Montana’s not the kind of place you want to go into blind. Book with a team that knows the mountains and knows the system. We’ll get you on track for the hunt of a lifetime.