Montana’s long‑standing hunting heritage is getting a fresh boost as Governor Greg Gianforte announces the Fifth Annual Montana Youth Hunting Story Contest. Open to Montana residents ages 10 through 17, the competition encourages the next generation of sportsmen and women to recount their favorite hunting moments.
How to Enter
To qualify, participants must hold a valid hunting license or apprentice hunting license and submit a story of 500 words or fewer, accompanied by a photo from the hunt. Eligible entries may describe the harvest of any legal game animal, furbearer, or bird taken in Montana.
Prizes and Capitol Opportunity
Ten winners will be selected – five in the 10‑13 age group and five in the 14‑17 age group. Each winner receives a prize package and the unique opportunity to travel to the Montana Capitol, where they will read their story before state officials and fellow hunters.
Governor’s Vision
“To honor Montana’s hunting traditions and celebrate the next generation of sportsmen and women, we are launching this contest,” the governor’s office said. Gianforte’s office notes that the contest routinely draws hundreds of entries, reflecting the deep‑rooted love of the outdoors that defines many Montana families.
Why It Matters
Beyond the excitement of competition, the contest reinforces values that many Montanans hold dear: respect for wildlife, responsible stewardship, and the bonding of families through shared outdoor experiences. By giving youth a platform to share their stories, the state highlights the role of tradition in shaping responsible citizens.
Submission Deadline
Entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2. The contest link and full guidelines are available on the governor’s official website.
Community Response
Local hunting clubs and outdoor retailers have expressed strong support, noting that the contest encourages safe, lawful hunting practices and helps preserve Montana’s cultural heritage for future generations.
For more information and to submit a story, visit the official contest page on governor.mt.gov.
Original reporting: NewsTalk KGVO 1290 (Townsquare) — read the source article.
