Governor Launches Fourth Annual Youth Hunting Story Contest

HELENA, MT — Governor Greg Gianforte is calling on young Montana hunters to share their outdoor experiences through the fourth annual Governor’s Youth Hunting Story Contest, now accepting submissions from hunters ages 10 to 17.

The contest invites Montana’s youth and apprentice hunters to submit stories of up to 500 words along with a photo from their hunt. Eligible entries include the harvest of any legal game, furbearer, or bird within Montana.

“For the past three years, young hunters across Montana have shared incredible stories that celebrate our hunting heritage and love of the outdoors,” Gianforte said. “As this year’s contest opens, I encourage all youth and apprentice hunters to take part and share their story.”

Participants must be Montana residents with valid hunting or apprentice hunting licenses. The governor will select 10 winners total — five from the 10-13 age group and five from the 14-17 age group.

Winners will receive an invitation to the Capitol in January to receive prizes and celebrate with the governor, providing young hunters recognition for their outdoor experiences and storytelling.

The contest represents Montana’s ongoing effort to engage youth in the state’s hunting traditions. By encouraging young hunters to document and share their experiences, the program helps preserve outdoor heritage while fostering the next generation of hunters and conservationists.

Montana has consistently worked to maintain youth participation in hunting through various programs and initiatives. The storytelling contest adds a creative element that allows young hunters to reflect on their experiences and share them with their peers and community.

The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, December 2, 2025. Complete contest information and entry details are available at youthhunting.mt.gov.

The contest continues to provide a platform for Montana youth to celebrate their hunting experiences while connecting with the broader outdoor community across the state.