Time for those new hunting permits

Deadlines loom.

It’s time to get your ducks in a row. Or more specifically, your deer, elk, fish and bears.

Unless you’d like to see yourself featured on an episode of Wardens, make sure you’ve purchased a new fishing license before you make another cast or drop another line. The new license year for Montana hunters and anglers began March 1.

And while warmer weather and rising fish are just around the corner, don’t forget that it’s also time to apply for special elk and deer permits. The application deadline for residents is March 16.

For those hunters how can’t wait until next fall to scratch that itch, spring turkey season opens April 11 -- with an application deadline of March 5 -- and spring black bear season opens April 14.

Hunters must pass a bear identification test and receive a certificate that they did so before purchasing a 2015 black bear license. The tests are available online at the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks website or by calling 406-444-2535. Hunters who have previously passed the bear ID test and bought a black bear license in the state do not need to submit a certificate to buy another.

The deer and elk application deadline is just the first of many that loom in the next few months. Bighorn sheep, moose and bison are due May 1, and antelope on June 1.

To help keep track of it all, FWP provides a handy list of 2015 hunting season dates and application deadlines that can be carried in your wallet.

Among those dates to remember is the July 2 deadline for SuperTags for antelope, sheep, bison, goat, deer, elk, moose, and mountain lion. One SuperTag will be drawn for each species and can be used in any hunting district in Montana. An unlimited number of chances at the SuperTags are available at $5 a pop.

Another deadline that is fast approaching is for a Super Permit to float the Smith River. Chances are also $5 each and can be purchased until March 19. The winner will be allowed to launch on a date of their choosing.

Revenue from the SuperTag sales is used to enhance hunting access and boost FWP enforcement efforts. Money raised from the Super Permit goes into the Smith River Corridor Enhancement account.

Don’t find yourself up the creek with no place to paddle. Check out the FWP website or visit one of their regional headquarters across the state. It’s time to get all of your critters in a row.

Parker Heinlein is at [email protected]