Changes proposed for wolf hunting, trapping seasons

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is recommending three changes to the wolf hunting and trapping seasons in Region 1, including one that would increase the individual number of wolves that can be hunted per person from five to 10.

Aside from doubling the limit of wolves per person, the agency is also proposing to extend the general hunting and trapping seasons. The general hunting season would begin on Aug. 15 and end March 31 instead of from Sept. 15 to March 15, and trapping season, which currently ends Feb. 28, would extend to March 15 instead, according to a press release.

The proposals emerged from the latest biennial season-setting process that involves the review of hunting season structures for most game animals and other managed species.

FWP regional staff met and took input from local communities at four meetings across Northwest Montana this winter. Public comment was also received online from Dec. 5 to Jan. 27 and forwarded to the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission and staff for its considerations.

“We heard from a substantial number of people attending the public meetings throughout Northwest Montana who requested additional opportunity for wolves, FWP Regional Wildlife Manager Neil Anderson said in a prepared statement. “Biologically, we have the wolf population to sustain additional harvest opportunity and wanted to be responsive to public input and participation.”

The commission will consider these proposals and others at its Feb. 13 meeting in Helena. If approved by the commission, these changes would take effect in Region 1.

FWP plans to recommend the public comment period be extended through March 16 for changes to the original hunting proposals.

The meeting, which begins at 8:30 a.m., will be audio-streamed online at fwp.mt.gov.