Hunting

Hunters have tremendous opportunity to harvest big game animals that migrate to Forest and Wilderness areas outside YNP boundaries and nearby gateway communities can offer regional hunting information.

Hunting is prohibited within Yellowstone National Park boundaries but Big Game, Upland Birds, and various Waterfowl can be hunted in season on public and national forest area land near Park boundaries, and on private land (60 million acres in Montana alone) when owners grant permission.

Where to go Hunting

Popular hunting locations near YNP include Teton Wilderness in the Bridger-Teton National Forest in Northwest Wyoming (near the Southeastern corner of YNP), Gallatin National Forest and the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana, and Salmon-Challis National Forest in Idaho.

Big Game Animals in the greater Yellowstone Area

  • Elk
  • Mule Deer
  • White Tail Deer
  • Black Bear
  • Bison
  • Antelope
  • Moose
  • Goat
  • Grizzly Bear
  • Gray Wolf
  • Bighorn Sheep
  • Mountain Lion

Hunting License and Tag Fees

Fees vary each year by State, type of game tag, and date of hunt/application. Licenses generally require successful completion of a state Hunter Safety Course.

  • Montana
    Contact Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for in and out of state resident license requirements online or at 406-444-2535.
  • Wyoming
    Contact Wyoming Game and Fish Department for in and out of state resident license requirements online or at 307-777-4600.
  • Idaho
    Contact Idaho Fish and Game for in and out of state resident licensee requirements online or at 208-334-3700.

Hire a Guide

Increase your odds of a successful hunt by hiring an experienced guide familiar with the terrain and get all the gear you need from the suppliers/outfitters listed here. Guide packages can provide horses, lodging, and assistance processing harvested game. These area experts can also assist you with special hunting permit information and tag drawings.

Safety Precautions

  • Know and adhere to area hunting regulations
  • Respect “No Trespassing” signs
  • Wear “Hunter Orange” and always be alert

Other Online Resources

  • Idaho Bird Hunting Society
    Preserving bird habitat through responsible hunting practices.
  • Montana Outfitters & Guides Association
    Montana Outfitters & Guides Association is a membership of licensed professional outfitters and guides in Montana that meet certain criteria and level of service.

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