Things are looking up for Montana antelope with populations continuing to recover from previous years’ winter mortality and reduced recruitment in central and eastern Montana.
This year, there are even a few more special licenses available reflecting that reduced but improving status.
Successful antelope license applicants may recognize increased fawn production in many areas as populations respond to generally favorable weather and habitat conditions in 2014.
Montana’s antelope archery season will close Oct. 10 and the general rifle season for antelope will run Oct. 11-Nov. 9.
For more information on antelope hunting in Montana, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov, click “Hunting” then click Hunting Guide.
Here’s a regional rundown on what antelope hunters can expect this year.
Region 6—Northeastern Montana
While on the rebound from recent severe winters, lower harvest quotas are expected as pronghorn populations recover.
Region 7—Southeastern Montana
Recent population surveys across Region 7 indicate that antelope populations are recovering but remain well below long-term averages. Numbers were very similar to last year, which were 50 percent below long term average and 66 percent below the 10 year peak count that occurred in 2006. Populations are rebounding nicely in the southern portion of the region, but seem to be struggling in the northern portion. Hunter success rates measured at the Broadus Check Station have equaled 72 percent each of the past two years and similar rates are expected again this year. FWP recommends that hunters head to the southern portion of the region to hunt antelope this fall.
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