Help Me Understand the Preference Point/Bonus Point System in MT

[kingfisher]

I am moving back to Montana next month after having been absent for 6 years. I am glad to get back to real hunting again. I am starting to scope out some new areas and plan for future hunts.

My question is regarding the accumulation of preference points and how they are lost with a successful draw. Is it that I have the option to apply, or not to apply these preference points to a drawing of my choosing (For B tag, or A Tag Drawings). Or, do these points automatically get applied to all special permit applications? And, if the latter, does this apply to B tags?

Hope I made that clear. Thanks

 

[bmart2622]

MT uses bonus points not preference points. You choose when you apply whether or not you want to use bonus points or not at the time you apply. If you choose not to use bonus points you also will not build any either with an unsuccessful draw. It is a separate bonus point system for each species, so elk b tags are separate than general elk.

 

[Scoot]

MT uses bonus points not preference points.

bmart, doesn't MT use BOTH bonus points and preference points? I believe that is the case...

 

[hobbes]

I've only been here 5 years, but I'm not aware of PPs being used.

 

[hobbes]

If you are applying for say an Elkhorns permit, you don't have much to worry about losing your points. You'll likely just gain a point each year. If you lose them, you've drawn and life is good.
General tags don't affect your bonus points, so you'll still be hunting elk each year.

 

[bmart2622]

Im pretty sure the preference points is only for non residents applying for the general combo tags I believe.

 

[Riplip]

MT actually uses both bonus and preference points. Preference points are only for NR and dont make a lot of sense as there are always leftover elk and/or combo tags for NR.

Bonus Points are for limited entry units and are squared in the drawing (so if you have 3 PP you have 9 entries/chances in the draw for a particular LE unit).

If you have family in MT and you used to be resident you should check out the coming home program which if you qualify would reduce your cost.

Link to Regulations: (2016 version)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks :: Hunting Regulations