Montana’s Wolf Debate Just Got a New Number

Montana Sets New Wolf Hunting And Trapping Quota For 2026-27 Season

Montana has officially decided how many wolves can be harvested during the upcoming hunting and trapping season, and there's a pretty big change from last year.

It's quite a bit lower than last year's quota of 452, but it's also higher than the 250-wolf quota recommended by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

Montana Approves 300-Wolf Quota For Upcoming Hunting Season

According to NBC Montana, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission approved a statewide quota of 300 wolves for the 2026-27 season, which starts September 5.

FWP recommended the lower number after an updated population model estimated that Montana has fewer wolves, smaller packs, and larger pack territories than previously thought. That model is still being peer reviewed.

The commission ultimately approved the 300-wolf quota unanimously after nearly four hours of discussion and public comment.

And there were plenty of opinions, as around 120 people spoke during the meeting, while more than 2,200 additional comments were submitted online or by mail.

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Montana Hunters And Trappers Didn't Reach Last Year's Wolf Quota

Most of the quota is concentrated in western Montana, with 131 wolves allocated to FWP Region 1 and another 92 in Region 2.

Last season, hunters and trappers harvested 247 wolves, so the new quota doesn't necessarily mean 300 wolves will actually be taken.

Still, it's a pretty significant change from last year, and it's likely to keep the debate over Montana's wolf population going.

So whether you think 300 wolves is way too many or not nearly enough, Montana has officially picked a number.