Open Letter to Opening Day Dummies: Montana’s Hunting Etiquette

Tomorrow is a sacred day in Montana. For many, hunting is a proud Montana family tradition. The opening day of hunting season is just as important as any holiday. Many excited outdoorsmen will be getting very little sleep as they anticipate the alarm clock. The BIG DAY has arrived.

Before we head out into the field in search of the elusive beast, I urge you to please read my open letter to all the "Opening Day Dummies."

Dear fellow outdoorsmen,

I write this on the Eve of our 2024 General Hunting Season in Montana. Tomorrow is a day that has quickly turned into amateur hour. When anyone with a truck, a gun, and a license can open fire on all types of critters.

Opening day is popular because the weather is typically mild and everyone can get out in the hills. The trailheads and parking areas resemble a giant used truck lot. With orange dots speckled across the hillside.

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Can you believe that Montana sold nearly 85,000 hunting permits to non-residents in 2023? No wonder it is so crowded. Montana is a destination for hunting and fishing enthusiasts.

Stay away from the "pumpkin patch"

The orange is meant to keep hunters safe in the field. Allowing you to be visible to others. On opening day, the orange dots can be scattered as far as the eye can see. With some fellow hunters getting in unsafe situations involving high-powered weapons.

Read More: Montana FWP: 10 Most Common Mistakes Hunters Make

I have a few etiquette rules for those not familiar with Opening Day in Montana

1. It is PUBLIC LAND, not your private hunting spot. Learn to share
2. If you see another hunter on the trail, ASK what his plan is.  That way you don't destroy his hunt.
3. DO NOT use your hunting scope as your optics.
4. DO NOT "spray and pray" - Make an ethical shot. Don't just unload on anything with 4 legs
5. WAVE - you see another hunter on the road or the trail, acknowledge them by waving. Don't be a jerk.
6. DO NOT set up near someone else. There is plenty of room to share. Move 1,000 yards the other way.
7. PICK UP TRASH. If you find trash, pick it up. I tell my kids it is good luck

Most importantly BE SAFE! Always know your target and BEYOND.

For me, I am going to sit this one out. I figure the circus can happen without me. I will save my energy for later.

Happy hunting and good luck with the 2024 season.