This term refers to the specific time when the outcome of license lotteries administered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) becomes available. These lotteries allocate limited hunting and fishing permits, often for highly sought-after species or areas. A concrete instance would be the release of outcomes for elk licenses or special permits for bighorn sheep. The announcement typically occurs online, allowing applicants to discover whether their applications were successful.
Access to this information is critical for hunters and anglers planning their seasons. Knowing the outcome allows successful applicants to purchase their licenses and tags, securing their opportunity to pursue game or fish. Conversely, unsuccessful applicants can explore alternative options, such as applying for leftover licenses or pursuing different species or areas. Historically, this process might have involved mail notifications or phone calls, but online publication provides immediate access and enhanced transparency. This modern system streamlines the process, ensuring fairness and efficiency in allocating limited resources.