Helena, Montana – Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte has announced the start of the fifth annual Governor’s Youth Hunting Story Contest, giving young hunters across the state an opportunity to share stories about their experiences in the outdoors.
The contest is open to Montana youth and apprentice hunters between the ages of 10 and 17. Participants are being encouraged to write about hunting adventures from across the Treasure State, including the experiences, people, and lessons that made their hunts memorable.
“For five years, this contest has celebrated young Montanans who are getting outdoors, making memories with family and friends, and carrying on our proud hunting heritage,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Some of my favorite stories each year come from our young hunters, and I can’t wait to see what adventures they share with us this season.”
The contest has been held for five years and has recognized young people from communities throughout Montana. Previous entries have focused on subjects such as a hunter’s first experience in the field, spending time outdoors with relatives and mentors, lessons learned while hunting and family traditions connected to the activity.
Ten young hunters will be selected as winners
Young hunters interested in participating must submit a story that is no longer than 500 words. Each submission must also include a photograph from the participant’s hunt.
To qualify, participants must live in Montana and be licensed hunters or apprentice hunters. They must also be between 10 and 17 years old.
Stories may involve the legal harvest of any game, furbearer or bird in Montana, giving young hunters several types of experiences they can choose to write about.
Gianforte will select a total of 10 winners from two age categories. Five winners will be selected among participants ages 10 through 13, while another five will come from the 14 through 17 age group.
Those selected will receive an invitation to visit the Montana State Capitol in January. There, the winners will have an opportunity to receive prizes and celebrate their hunting stories with the governor.
Several organizations and businesses are serving as prize partners for the fifth annual contest in 2026. They include Sitka, Stone Glacier, Kenetrek Boots, J2 Taxidermy, Daniel Defense, Leupold, Vortex, Crazy Creek, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Murdoch’s, the Montana Outfitters & Guides Association and Zink’s Big Sky Archery Targets.
Young hunters who want to participate have until Wednesday, December 2, 2026, to send in their entries.
Through the annual contest, Montana continues to provide young hunters with a way to share the personal side of their experiences in the field. The stories can focus not only on a successful hunt but also on time spent with family members and mentors, lessons gained outdoors and hunting traditions passed between generations.
Additional information about eligibility requirements and the process for submitting a story is available through the Governor’s Youth Hunting Story Contest website.
