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When is the best time to start building your Montana hunting legacy? The answer might surprise you. For serious hunters, the journey to bagging that trophy elk or elusive bighorn sheep often begins years before setting foot in the backcountry. Montana’s preference point system is the key that unlocks access to some of the most coveted tags in the West – but navigating this system requires strategy, patience, and insider knowledge.

Whether you’re a seasoned mountain hunter or dreaming of your first Montana adventure, understanding when and how to buy preference points can make the difference between years of frustration and the hunt of a lifetime. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Montana’s point system, from optimal purchasing windows to species-specific strategies. You’ll learn how to avoid common pitfalls, maximize your drawing odds, and make smart investments in your hunting future.

• Related article: Introduction to Montana Hunting

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap for building preference points tailored to your specific hunting goals. So grab your calendar and get ready to start planning – your dream Montana hunt might be closer than you think.

Understanding Montana’s Preference Point System: An Overview

Montana’s preference point system serves as the backbone of the state’s limited-entry hunt allocation process, offering dedicated hunters a strategic pathway to securing coveted tags. Unlike the completely random draws implemented in some states, Montana employs a weighted lottery system that rewards persistent applicants who may have faced disappointment in previous seasons.

Each preference point essentially functions as an additional entry in Montana’s draw. For instance, if you’ve accumulated three preference points for elk, your name effectively goes into the drawing four times (your current application plus three points from previous years). This significantly improves your statistical chances of drawing a tag for premium hunting districts that typically see extremely low success rates for first-time applicants.

What makes Montana’s system particularly distinctive is its species-specific approach. Points accumulated for elk cannot be transferred to deer applications, and vice versa. This creates a situation where hunters must carefully prioritize which species they’re most interested in pursuing over the long term. The system covers five primary species categories: elk, deer, antelope, moose, and mountain goat/sheep.

For hunters targeting Montana’s legendary trophy areas—like the Missouri Breaks for elk or the Beartooth Mountains for bighorn sheep—preference points aren’t merely helpful; they’re practically essential. Many of these premium zones see drawing odds below 1% for applicants without accumulated points, while those with maximum point totals might enjoy success rates approaching 25-30% in some units.

It’s worth noting that Montana’s preference point system doesn’t guarantee a tag after a certain threshold—unlike the “point creep” systems in states like Colorado or Utah. Instead, it simply improves your odds incrementally with each passing year. This creates a balanced approach that still gives hope to new applicants while rewarding those who have invested time and money into the system over multiple seasons.

For serious hunters planning multi-year strategies, understanding when and how to purchase Montana preference points becomes a critical component of their western hunting blueprint. The system rewards patience and persistence—qualities that often define successful mountain hunters in Montana’s challenging terrain.

Montana Preference Points vs. Bonus Points: Know the Difference

Montana’s hunting license system utilizes both preference points and bonus points, but they function in fundamentally different ways—understanding this distinction is crucial for strategic application planning.

Preference points operate as a priority system. When you apply for a license and are unsuccessful, you receive one preference point. In subsequent drawings, applicants are sorted first by their preference point totals, with those having the most points considered first. This creates a quasi-queue where, eventually, persistent applicants move to the front of the line. Montana’s moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and bison hunts operate on this preference point system.

Bonus points, meanwhile, function as extra entries in the drawing. Each bonus point gives you an additional chance in the lottery—like having multiple tickets. If you have three bonus points, it’s equivalent to having your name in the hat four times (your application plus three bonus points). Montana uses the bonus point system for deer, elk, and antelope drawings.

The impact on drawing odds differs significantly between these systems. With preference points, your odds jump dramatically once you reach the top tier of point holders. For instance, applicants with maximum preference points for bighorn sheep might see success rates of 90%+ compared to less than 1% for those with zero points. In contrast, bonus points provide a more gradual increase in odds—each point improves your chances incrementally rather than creating distinct priority tiers.

Another critical difference lies in acquisition. Montana allows hunters to purchase one preference point per year without applying for a license, which is ideal for those planning long-term. Bonus points, however, can only be accumulated by applying for and failing to draw a license—you cannot purchase them separately.

Understanding which system applies to your target species is essential for developing an effective application strategy. For high-demand species using the preference point system, consistent point accumulation years in advance is necessary. For bonus point species, applying annually is the only way to improve your odds over time.

When to Start Accumulating Montana Preference Points

The short answer to when you should start accumulating Montana preference points is simple: as soon as possible. However, the strategic approach depends on your specific hunting goals and timeline.

For most serious hunters targeting trophy units or highly competitive areas, beginning your point accumulation in your 20s or 30s provides the best long-term advantage. This early start allows you to build a substantial point bank before reaching your prime hunting years. By the time you’re in your 40s or 50s—when many hunters have more time and resources to dedicate to hunting—you’ll have the point advantage needed to draw premium tags.

If you’re targeting Montana’s most coveted species like moose, sheep, or goat, the timeline becomes even more critical. These species often require 10+ years of preference points to have reasonable drawing odds in desirable units. Starting early means you might draw your first premium tag in your 30s rather than your 50s.

For parents planning hunting traditions with children, purchasing points for youth hunters as soon as they’re eligible is a strategic investment. Montana allows youth to accumulate points before they’re old enough to hunt, giving them a significant advantage when they reach hunting age.

Mid-career hunters in their 40s shouldn’t be discouraged from starting their point accumulation journey. While you won’t have the same long-term advantage as younger hunters, a focused 5-7 year point strategy can still yield opportunities in moderately competitive units, especially if you’re flexible about hunting areas.

The optimal approach varies by species:

• Elk: Begin 3-7 years before your planned hunt
• Deer: Start 2-5 years ahead for quality units
• Moose/Sheep/Goat: Begin as early as possible, ideally 7-15+ years before hoping to draw

Remember that preference points are an investment in future hunting opportunities. The longer your timeline, the more strategic options become available to you. Even if you’re unsure about hunting Montana in the immediate future, banking points now preserves opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable when you’re ready to pursue them.

Montana Preference Point Purchasing Window: Key Dates

Montana’s preference point purchasing windows are critical dates that every serious hunter needs to mark on their calendar. Missing these windows can set your hunting plans back an entire year, so understanding the exact timeframes is essential for strategic point accumulation.

For most big game species in Montana, the primary preference point application period runs from March 1 through April 1 each year. During this window, hunters can purchase preference points alongside their license applications. This is the most common way hunters acquire points, as they’re typically applying for permits during this time anyway.

However, Montana also offers a second chance for hunters who missed the spring application period or who decided later in the year to start building points. From July 1 through September 30, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks opens a dedicated preference point purchasing period. This three-month window is exclusively for buying points—no license applications are processed during this time.

Species-specific deadlines exist as well:

• Deer and Elk: Points must be purchased by September 30
• Moose, Sheep, and Goat: Points must be purchased by May 1
• Antelope: Points must be purchased by June 1
• Bison: Points must be purchased by May 1

It’s worth noting that Montana’s system has a use-it-or-lose-it policy. If you don’t either apply for a license or purchase a preference point in a given year, you’ll forfeit all your accumulated points for that species. This makes these purchasing windows even more critical for hunters committed to building their point totals.

For non-residents planning their hunting strategy, remember that Montana limits non-resident licenses, so securing your preference points during these windows becomes even more competitive and necessary for future success.

Mark these dates in your calendar, set multiple reminders, and make purchasing your points a priority during these windows. The most successful Montana hunters are those who never miss a point-buying opportunity, steadily building their advantage year after year.

Species-Specific Preference Point Strategies in Montana

Each big game species in Montana requires a different approach when it comes to preference point strategy. Understanding these nuances can dramatically improve your chances of drawing coveted tags.

Elk Preference Point Strategy

Montana’s elk hunting opportunities vary dramatically across the state, requiring targeted point strategies:

• Missouri Breaks Region (Districts 621, 622, 631, 632): These coveted areas typically require 3-5 preference points for reasonable drawing odds. Consider applying every year, as these districts offer exceptional trophy potential.
• Southwest Montana Units: Districts like 380 and 339 often need 2-4 points for decent odds. These areas provide quality hunting with slightly better drawing probability than the Breaks.
• General Season Backup: Always apply for a general season elk tag as your second or third choice to ensure hunting opportunity while building points for premium areas.

Deer Preference Point Strategy

Mule deer and whitetail strategies differ significantly:

• Trophy Mule Deer: Premium units like 270, 291, and 700 typically require 2-3 preference points. Focus on accumulating points for these areas if trophy quality is your priority.
• Whitetail Opportunities: Many excellent whitetail districts can be drawn with 0-1 points. Consider these as point-building opportunities while still enjoying quality hunts.
• Region Selection: Eastern Montana units generally require fewer points than western units for comparable quality, making them smart choices for hunters with limited points.

Moose, Sheep, and Goat Point Strategy

These species require long-term commitment and planning:

• Moose: Even with maximum points (8+), drawing odds rarely exceed 5-10% for most units. Focus on districts 326 and 310 for slightly better odds while continuing to build points.
• Bighorn Sheep: The ultimate long game. Districts like 680 and 482 offer marginally better odds, but expect to apply for 10+ years. Consider purchasing points annually even if not applying.
• Mountain Goat: Similar to sheep, goat tags are extremely competitive. Units 313 and 329 historically offer slightly better drawing percentages, but still require significant point investment.

Remember that point creep (increasing point requirements over time) affects all species, so developing a 5-10 year strategy is essential. Consider applying for less desirable but still quality units to potentially “jump the line” while competitors wait for premier areas. The most successful Montana hunters maintain flexibility in their species priorities while consistently building points across multiple categories.

Cost Analysis: Montana Preference Point Investment Over Time

Understanding the financial commitment required for Montana’s preference point system is essential for long-term hunting planning. When considering whether to invest in preference points, hunters should analyze both the immediate costs and the potential multi-year investment required to draw premium tags.

For non-residents, Montana preference points represent a significant financial commitment. Currently, non-resident hunters must pay $50 per preference point for elk and deer, while moose, sheep, and goat preference points cost $75 each. These fees are in addition to the application fees for the actual license drawings.

Resident hunters enjoy substantially lower costs, with preference points priced at just $20 per species regardless of whether it’s for elk, deer, moose, sheep, or goat. This pricing structure makes the point-building strategy much more accessible for Montana residents.

Let’s break down the potential long-term investment required for non-resident hunters targeting premium tags:

For a non-resident elk hunter building points over 5 years:

• Preference points: $50 × 5 = $250
• Application fees over 5 years: $25 × 5 = $125
• Total investment before drawing a tag: $375

For a non-resident sheep hunter building points over 10 years:

• Preference points: $75 × 10 = $750
• Application fees over 10 years: $25 × 10 = $250
• Total investment before drawing a tag: $1,000

This investment calculation doesn’t include the actual license cost once drawn, which can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the species.

For budget-conscious hunters, it’s worth noting that preference points never expire in Montana, making them a long-term asset. However, points are species-specific and cannot be transferred between different hunt types or family members. This makes each point purchase a dedicated investment toward a specific hunting goal.

When planning your Montana hunting budget, remember to factor in not just the immediate cost of preference points but also application fees, potential license costs, and travel expenses for when you eventually draw your tag. By taking this comprehensive approach to cost analysis, you can determine whether building preference points aligns with your hunting goals and financial situation.

Drawing Odds: Maximizing Your Montana Preference Points

Understanding drawing odds is critical when deciding when to buy Montana preference points and how to use them strategically. The mathematics behind preference points creates a significant advantage for persistent hunters who accumulate points over time.

For Montana’s most coveted species like elk, moose, mountain goat, and bighorn sheep, the difference between having zero points and having five or more can be dramatic. In premium elk units like the Missouri Breaks (HD 410), hunters with zero points typically face odds worse than 5%, while those with 5+ points might see success rates jump to 15-20% or higher.

Historical data shows clear patterns that smart hunters can leverage:

• Moose, Sheep, and Goat: These species require long-term point strategies. Most successful applicants have 7+ preference points, with many trophy areas requiring 10+ points for reasonable odds.
• Elk in Premium Units: Mid-tier point holders (3-6 points) see a substantial odds increase, often doubling or tripling their chances compared to point-less applicants.
• Mule Deer: Point advantages become most noticeable at the 2-4 point threshold in trophy units.
• Antelope: Even 1-2 points can significantly improve drawing odds in many units.

The “sweet spot” strategy involves targeting units where your point level puts you just above the average successful applicant. This approach maximizes point efficiency rather than waiting years for ultra-premium tags that might require additional points.

When analyzing drawing odds, pay attention to application numbers year-over-year. Units showing decreasing application trends might offer opportunity, while those with rapidly increasing popularity may require adjusting your point strategy.

Remember that Montana’s preference point system is weighted, not guaranteed. Each point effectively gives you another entry in the drawing, improving odds without guaranteeing success. This makes understanding the statistical advantage of your points crucial when deciding which units to apply for each year.

Montana’s Preference Point Banking System Explained

Montana’s preference point system operates like a long-term investment account for serious hunters. Unlike some western states with complicated point structures, Montana maintains a relatively straightforward banking system that rewards patient hunters who consistently invest in their future hunting opportunities.

When you purchase a preference point in Montana, it’s immediately added to your account and remains there until you successfully draw a tag. There’s good news for dedicated point collectors: Montana preference points do not expire. This permanence allows hunters to develop multi-year or even decade-long strategies for trophy units without the pressure of using points before they disappear.

Your preference points are automatically applied when you submit applications for limited-entry hunts. The system adds your accumulated preference points to your application, effectively giving you that many additional chances in the drawing. For example, if you’ve banked three elk preference points, your name essentially goes into the drawing four times (your application plus three preference points).

To verify your current point total, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) makes the process relatively simple. Hunters can:

1. Log into their MyFWP account on the official Montana FWP website
2. Navigate to the “Bonus/Preference Points” section
3. View a complete breakdown of points by species

Many hunters wisely check their point totals before application season begins to ensure accuracy. If you discover discrepancies in your point total, contact Montana FWP directly with documentation of your previous point purchases. The department maintains records but resolving issues takes time, so verify well before application deadlines.

Remember that banking points represents a significant financial commitment over time. A strategic approach involves deciding which species and units are worth the long-term investment of your preference points, especially considering that successful draws reset your point total to zero for that specific species.

Common Mistakes When Purchasing Montana Preference Points

Many hunters diminish their chances of drawing premium tags in Montana by making avoidable mistakes with their preference points. Understanding these pitfalls can save you years of frustration and wasted application fees.

One of the most common errors is simply forgetting to purchase points during the designated window. Montana’s preference point application period runs from July 1 to September 30 annually, and unlike some states, Montana offers no grace period or exceptions. Set calendar reminders at least a month before the deadline to ensure you don’t miss this critical opportunity.

Another frequent mistake is applying for the wrong species. Montana’s system requires separate preference point purchases for each species you’re interested in hunting. Many hunters mistakenly believe that purchasing an elk preference point, for example, will also count toward moose, sheep, or goat drawings. Each species requires its own point purchase and tracking.

Misunderstanding point values represents another pitfall. Some hunters incorrectly assume that having the maximum number of preference points guarantees a tag. In Montana’s system, points only increase your odds—they don’t guarantee success. Even with maximum points, drawings for premium units remain competitive, and hunters should maintain realistic expectations.

Many applicants also fail to verify their preference point totals before application season. Montana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks department occasionally makes administrative errors, and points can sometimes be incorrectly recorded. Always check your point totals in February or March before the spring application period to ensure accuracy and address any discrepancies.

Perhaps the costliest mistake is applying for easy-to-draw units while holding multiple preference points. This effectively wastes years of point accumulation on hunts you could have drawn without points. Research drawing odds carefully and save your preference points for truly premium hunting opportunities that justify your investment of time and money.

Lastly, hunters sometimes neglect to consider party applications. When applying as a group in Montana, the system averages all applicants’ preference points, potentially diluting years of point accumulation. Make strategic decisions about when to apply individually versus with companions based on everyone’s point totals and hunting priorities.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll maximize the value of your Montana preference points and significantly improve your chances of eventually drawing those coveted tags for trophy hunting areas.

Preference Points for Youth Hunters in Montana

Montana offers several unique opportunities for youth hunters looking to build preference points, making it an excellent state for introducing young people to hunting traditions. Youth hunters can begin accumulating preference points at a young age, creating a significant advantage when they’re ready for their first big game hunt.

In Montana, hunters as young as 10 years old can start purchasing preference points, even before they’re eligible to hunt. This early start allows young hunters to build a substantial point bank by the time they reach hunting age. Parents and mentors should consider investing in preference points for youth as early as possible, essentially “banking” future hunting opportunities.

Montana’s licensing system offers discounted preference point purchases for residents under 18, making it more affordable for families to build points for multiple children. These discounted rates represent a significant long-term investment, as points accumulated during youth years may translate to premium hunting opportunities in adulthood.

For youth hunters who are ready to hunt, Montana offers special youth-only hunting opportunities that don’t require using preference points. These seasons provide excellent experience while allowing young hunters to continue building points for future premium hunts. This dual approach—participating in youth hunts while banking points—maximizes opportunities throughout a young hunter’s development.

When planning a youth hunter’s preference point strategy, consider their hunting goals and timeline. Points for elk might be most valuable for teenagers approaching adulthood, while deer or antelope points might offer more immediate opportunities. A thoughtful, species-specific approach ensures young hunters can access quality hunts throughout their development years while still building toward trophy opportunities in adulthood.

Remember that Montana requires hunter education certification before youth can hunt, though not before purchasing preference points. Planning this certification timing alongside your point-building strategy ensures young hunters are ready when opportunity knocks.

Alternative Hunting Opportunities While Building Points

While you’re patiently accumulating preference points for those coveted limited-entry hunts, Montana offers numerous excellent hunting opportunities that don’t require drawing success. These alternatives not only provide hunting experiences each season but also help you gain valuable knowledge of the terrain that will benefit you when you eventually draw your premium tag.

General elk tags in Montana are available over the counter for most hunting districts, allowing you to pursue these magnificent animals while building points for restricted areas. Many of Montana’s general units hold respectable elk populations, particularly in the central and western regions of the state. These hunts may require more effort and typically have lower success rates than limited-entry areas, but they offer annual hunting opportunities and the chance to hone your skills.

Deer hunting presents another excellent option while you wait. Montana offers over-the-counter general deer licenses that provide access to much of the state. While the trophy quality might not match what you’d find in limited-entry units, many hunters consistently harvest respectable mule deer and whitetails in general areas.

Antelope hunting on private land with landowner permission can be productive without preference points. While the most sought-after public land antelope units require preference points, networking with landowners can sometimes provide access to quality hunting grounds where tags are more accessible.

Upland bird hunting is another outstanding alternative that Montana excels in. From pheasants and sharp-tailed grouse to Hungarian partridge and mountain grouse species, the state offers diverse bird hunting opportunities that require only general licenses.

Turkey hunting, particularly in the spring, provides another engaging option. Montana’s turkey populations are healthy in many areas, and these hunts typically don’t require preference points.

Black bear hunting can be an exciting spring or fall pursuit while building points for other species. Many areas offer over-the-counter bear tags with reasonable success rates for hunters willing to put in the scouting time.

Finally, consider hunting in neighboring states with different point systems or draw odds while building your Montana points. Wyoming, Idaho, and other western states may offer opportunities that complement your Montana strategy, allowing you to hunt premium areas in different states in different years.

By taking advantage of these alternative hunting opportunities, you’ll not only enjoy annual hunting experiences but also develop skills and knowledge that will serve you well when you finally draw that limited-entry tag you’ve been building points for.

Using Online Resources to Track and Apply for Preference Points

Montana’s hunting license application system has evolved significantly in recent years, offering hunters more digital tools to manage their preference points and applications. Understanding how to navigate these resources effectively can save you time and prevent costly mistakes when building your preference point strategy.

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) online licensing system serves as your primary portal for all preference point transactions. Through this platform, you can purchase points during the designated application periods, check your current point totals, and apply for draws. The system maintains a complete history of your preference point purchases and usage, allowing you to verify your status before each application season.

To access your preference point information, simply log into your MyFWP account and navigate to the “Bonus/Preference Points” section. Here, you’ll find a breakdown by species, showing exactly how many points you’ve accumulated for elk, deer, antelope, moose, sheep, and goat. The interface clearly indicates which points were earned through unsuccessful applications and which were purchased directly.

Beyond the official FWP system, several third-party services have emerged to help hunters optimize their preference point strategies. Websites like GoHunt’s INSIDER platform offer draw odds calculators that incorporate your preference point totals, showing exactly how your odds improve with each additional point. These tools can help you make informed decisions about when to apply for premium units versus continuing to build points.

Mobile applications dedicated to western hunting applications have also become valuable resources. Apps like HuntReminder can send notifications when preference point purchasing periods open, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to add to your point total. Some even offer planning features that help you project how many years it might take to draw specific tags based on current point trends.

For those managing preference points across multiple states, spreadsheet templates specifically designed for point tracking are available through various hunting forums and websites. These templates help you monitor investment costs, point totals, and application deadlines across different systems, bringing organization to what can otherwise become a confusing process.

Remember that while these digital tools are invaluable, they’re only effective when used regularly. Set calendar reminders to check your point totals at least twice yearly—once before application season and once after draw results are announced. This habit ensures you’re always working with accurate information when planning your Montana hunting strategy.

Future Changes: Proposed Updates to Montana’s Point System

Montana’s preference point system, like many wildlife management policies, evolves over time to address changing hunter demographics, wildlife populations, and conservation needs. Several significant changes are currently under consideration that could impact your long-term point strategy.

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission has recently discussed implementing a preference point cap, potentially limiting the maximum number of points a hunter can accumulate to 15. This proposed change aims to prevent point hoarding and create more equitable drawing opportunities for newer applicants. If implemented, hunters with substantial point investments would need to use them strategically before hitting the cap.

Another notable proposal involves modifying the bonus point multiplier formula. Currently, each preference point essentially gives you an additional chance in the draw. The proposed change would adjust this to a squared multiplier system for certain high-demand hunts, potentially accelerating the advantage for long-term point holders.

The commission is also considering the introduction of a hybrid draw system for select premium hunting districts. This would allocate a percentage of tags to a random draw (10-20%) while reserving the majority for the preference point system. Such a change would give point-less hunters a small but realistic chance at drawing coveted tags while still rewarding those who’ve invested in the point system.

For non-resident hunters, proposals to adjust the allocation percentages between preference point holders and general applicants could significantly impact drawing odds. Some discussions have centered around increasing the percentage of tags reserved for the preference point system from the current levels.

The most controversial proposal involves implementing a “use it or lose it” policy, where preference points would expire after a certain number of years if not used. This would force hunters to be more strategic about when they cash in their points rather than banking them indefinitely.

Stay informed about these potential changes by regularly checking the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website and subscribing to their newsletter. Public comment periods typically precede any major system changes, giving hunters an opportunity to voice their opinions before modifications are finalized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

• https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses/bonus-points
• https://fwp.mt.gov/binaries/content/assets/fwp/buyandapply/hunting/bonus-points-faq–final.pdf
• https://fwp.mt.gov/binaries/content/gallery/mtfwpproject/fwpimageset/hunt/bonus-points-web.jpg