Montana has long set itself apart as a special state for sheep hunting as the only state to offer over-the-counter Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep tags. The odds of harvesting a ram are typically around 2%, but a handful of lucky hunters take home a ram every year. Last year, fourteen hunters harvested rams in the unlimited areas. Once again, hunters can choose from five units: 300, 303, 500, 501, and 502. New for 2026, however, Unlimited bighorn sheep licenses will no longer be available as an over-the-counter purchase. The only way to acquire an unlimited license will be to apply for it in the draw by the May 1 deadline. See the “Unlimited Bighorn Sheep” section for more information on this update and for detailed descriptions of the units and hunts.

If you’ll be hiring an outfitter if drawn, we have Endorsed Outfitters in each of the units available to non-residents this year. Montana residents also have an additional twenty-five hunts to consider applying for, so give us a call if you would like to discuss your best option. Good luck in the draw!