Montana Hunters Face New Tech Restrictions

OK, fellow Montana Hunters, before you go out sighting in your rifle or blowing the dust off the camo, we’ve got a new laws coming down the pike you’ll want to hear about. The Montana Legislature is advancing a bill (SB 63) that would essentially say, “Leave the gadgets at home.”

This one is designed to outlaw the use of electronic motion-tracking devices to locate game. You know, fancy tech that tells you exactly where that deer or elk are moving in real-time? Yeah, no more of that. And if you’re using a motion sensor, app, or satellite dish strapped to a tree, the state’s about to serve you a hard nope.

The goal is to keep hunting equitable and skill-based, not who owns the fanciest toys. The bill prohibits using anything that tracks where an animal goes and tells you where they are the same day you’re hunting. Also, you can’t send your buddy a text saying, “Hey man, my tracker says there’s a bull elk in the ravine behind your blind.” That’ll get you in trouble, too.

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Now, no need to panic. This doesn’t refer to radio collars on your dogs. So, bird and predator hunters, you’re safe. But if you’re busted on this, expect a fine (upward of $1,000), jail time, and a potential farewell to your hunting license.

Bottom line: this season, it’s old school again. Boots on the ground, weapon in hand, and patience. So, a little less Silicon Valley, a little more Bitterroot Valley. And honestly? That’s not such a bad thing.