Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released updated information regarding changes to public access for SPP Montana, LLC (SPP) Block Management Areas (BMA) in northwest Montana for the 2026 season. SPP lands that were previously administered under a single access area are now divided into three distinct BMAs: SPP MT - Ashley Lake, SPP MT - McGinnis, and SPP MT - North.
This change was made to improve public access management and ensure more accurate reporting of hunter activity on each individual property. Hunters and other recreational users should review the current maps and rules for the specific BMA they plan to visit, as access requirements differ among the three areas. Season-long hang tags are specific to each BMA and cannot be used interchangeably. Users should confirm they have the correct hang tag for the BMA they intend to access. Updated maps and rules are available on the FWP website, at the FWP Region 1 headquarters, and onsite at BMA sign-in boxes.
Key reminders about each area are as follows:
- Type 1 BMA with season-long permission.
- Beginning September 1, 2026, users must obtain a blue Season-Long Permission Hang Tag before accessing the property.
- Hang tags and permission details are available at designated sign-in boxes or at the FWP Region 1 headquarters.
- The blue hang tag must be displayed from the vehicle's rearview mirror at all times while on the BMA.
- Type 1 BMA with season-long permission.
- Beginning September 1, 2026, users must obtain a yellow Season-Long Permission Hang Tag before accessing the property.
- Hang tags and permission details are available at designated sign-in boxes or at the Region 1 headquarters.
- The yellow hang tag must be displayed from the vehicle's rearview mirror at all times while on the BMA.
- Type 2 BMA, requiring written permission prior to access.
- Permission must be obtained in person at WPR Ranch Headquarters, 15337 Wolf Creek Rd., Libby, MT. After obtaining written permission, users must notify ranch staff by email or text message before each visit to the BMA.
- Regular permission hours: Second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Additional 2026 permission dates include August 18–20, and October 12-14, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Written permission must be displayed in the vehicle while accessing the BMA.
For more information about block management opportunities in Region 1, visit the FWP website.