Montana’s Blackfeet Nation Guided Bison Hunt Drawing Under Way

The window of opportunity is narrowing, so if this piques any hunters' interest, you need to act quickly for the first drawing.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has announced that the Blackfeet Nation, in collaboration with Montana FWP, is offering hunters a unique opportunity to participate in guided bison hunts on the Blackfeet Reservation through a lottery system. This initiative, "reflects a shared commitment to wildlife management and aims to enhance hunting opportunities across the state."

The lottery is open to all hunters, including tribal members and both in state and out of state hunters. Hunters can purchase chances at $10 each, with a maximum of 20 chances per individual. Multiple lotteries are scheduled, with specific sales and drawing dates. But if you feel Christmas luck is on your side, one lottery’s sales period ends on December 22, with the drawing held on December 23.

AN IMPORTANT CONDITION APPLIES

One of the Blackfeet Nation's requirements is that a minimum of 400 chances must be sold. Otherwise, the winner is required to pay $500. Successful hunters will be allowed to retain the bison’s head, hide, and meat.

The Blackfeet Nation emphasizes that, "This lottery system not only provides a distinctive hunting experience but also fosters collaboration between state agencies and the Blackfeet Tribe in wildlife conservation efforts."

HOW TO GET YOUR CHANCES

Montana FWP says there are several ways to enter the drawing. You can purchase tickets on FWP's Buy and Apply web page here.

Tickets are also available at numerous hunting license dealers such as sporting good stores, or you can contact the Blackfeet Fish and Game office at 406-338-7207.