Caution: Season dates vary by flyway and species, so please check the regulations for complete season dates and details.

Helpful Waterfowl links

• Migratory Game Bird Hunting Opportunities in Montana ( 129 KB)
• Visit MT: Outfitters and Guides
• Flyways.us —Waterfowl hunting management in North America

Additional Information

• Swan Identification

  Swan hunting is allowed in Montana only by holders of a special permit. Two species of swans can be found in Montana: Trumpeter Swans and Tundra Swans. It is legal to hunt either species of swans in the Pacific Flyway portion of the state. The later opening date and earlier closing date in the Pacific Flyway is intended to reduce the chance of harvesting trumpeters. It is NOT legal to shoot a trumpeter swan in the Central Flyway part of the state; the swan season there is only for tundra swans. Swan identification can be difficult in normal hunting conditions. Understanding the different characteristics of swans can help you make the right decisions in the field.

  Distinguishing Trumpeter Swans from Tundra Swans is possible by paying close attention to calls, although bill characteristics and other features may be helpful at close range. Montana's Animal Field Guide offers information about both the Trumpeter Swan and the Tundra Swan. For further information about swan identification and to hear additional swan calls, visit The Trumpeter Swan Society .

• Duck and Goose Identification

  Most FWP regional offices will have free waterfowl identification guides that you may pick up and carry while hunting. You can also go to the USGS Duck Identification Guide for Hunters Web site to access three good identification guides.