KALISPELL – With Montana's general hunting season underway and hunters heading into the field, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are reminding hunters and residents that hunting game animals with the use of bait, and supplemental feeding of wildlife, are prohibited under state law.
"Hunting game animals with bait is illegal in Montana," said regional game warden captain, Chris Neu. "Several stores across the state sell products that are marketed as wildlife feed, supplements, and attractants. However, just because a product is available for sale, that does not mean it is legal to use while hunting."
Baiting and feeding wildlife disrupts natural behavior, can create unnatural concentrations of animals, and increase the potential for disease transmission and human-wildlife conflicts.
"Hunters should familiarize themselves with Montana's hunting regulations and understand the restrictions on baiting and supplemental feeding before heading into the field or before purchasing this feed from stores," said Neu. "Do your part to protect Montana's hunting traditions."
Anyone who witnesses suspected illegal hunting activity or other wildlife violations can report it to FWP by calling 1-800-TIP-MONT or submitting a report online at tipmont.mt.gov