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New Season, New System: 2026 MT FWP Licensing Guide

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For over 70 years, Snappy’s has been a cornerstone for Northwest Montana’s hunters and anglers. We have provided the Flathead Valley all things hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation, including licensing for over seven decades. As we head into the 2026 season we want to introduce the significant changes coming from Helena.

As of February 5th, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (MT FWP) transitioned all in-person license sales to the new License Ambassador program. This is a state-mandated shift that replaces the legacy licensing system across the state. The driver for this change is the obsolescence of existing hardware. According to MT FWP Licensing Bureau, the proprietary equipment used to issue licenses has reached its end-of-life and is no longer repairable or replaceable. Moving forward, all licensing will be available for purchase online at fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply, at any MT FWP Regional Office or at select License Ambassador locations.

License Ambassador

Providers, such as Snappy’s, who choose to transition into the new License Ambassador role will provide a kiosk for users to process and print their licenses/tags. What this means is that while Snappy’s will no longer have a traditional licensing station, we will be embracing the License Ambassador role and assisting recreationists who choose to utilize the self serve kiosk.

Key Changes

License Purchase Options: Licenses are available via the MT FWP website, the MyFWP mobile app, any Ambassador Program kiosks, or in person at any Regional MT FWP Office. MyFWP Portal: While the app is primarily for in-field license use, the MyFWP Portal allows you to:

  • Apply for Special Permit Drawings (Moose, Sheep, Goat, etc.).
  • Manage and view your Bonus and Preference points.
  • Submit mandatory harvest reports and surveys.
  • Purchase SuperTag lottery chances.

Apply for Hunter Apprenticeship and Mentor Programs, and more.

MyFWPApp: Install the MyFWP app via Google Play or the Apple App Store. All non-carcass licenses—including fishing, upland bird, conservation, bow stamps, and AIS will sync to the app automatically. Once downloaded, your digital licenses are accessible offline and additionally the app does not track your GPS location.

Debit/Credit Card Only: Ambassador kiosks utilize the State’s web portal; therefore, all transactions require a credit or debit card. (The State of Montana applies a nominal electronic processing fee to all kiosk transactions.)

Note: To pay with cash or check, you must visit a MT FWP Regional Office. MT FWP Region 1 office is located at 490 N. Meridian Rd. in Kalispell.

Paper vs. Digital Tags: Upon purchase of carcass tags, you must choose between a physical or digital (E-tag) tag; you cannot hold both for the same tag.

Note: Physical tags are printed on standard 8.5″ x 11″ paper rather than traditional waterproof stock.

Mark your Calendar: 2026 licenses are available for purchase starting 5:00 AM, March 1, 2026. For over 70 years, Snappy’s has been your trusted provider for hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and licensing. We are extremely proud to continue our legacy as your full-service outdoor headquarters and now License Ambassador for generations to come.

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