Mountain Lion Hunting License Guide
Mountain lion hunting regulations, tag costs, and permit requirements across western US states.
About Mountain Lion Hunting in the United States
Mountain lion (cougar) hunting is highly regulated and available in approximately 14 western states. Hunters must navigate complex regulations that vary significantly by state, including special permit requirements, mandatory education certificates, and varying harvest quotas. Montana offers one of the most accessible mountain lion hunting programs, with general licenses at $19 for residents and $320 for non-residents. Colorado requires completion of a Mountain Lion Education Certificate before purchasing a lion license, and Utah recently eliminated bag limits and separate permits, allowing year-round harvest with a valid hunting license. Some states like California ban mountain lion hunting entirely, while others like Texas classify them as non-game animals with no closed season. Most successful mountain lion hunts involve the use of trained hounds, though spot-and-stalk hunting is also practiced. Harvest quotas are typically managed at the hunting district or unit level.
Scientific name: Puma concolor
Mountain Lion Distribution Map
See where mountain lion hunting is available across the United States.
Mountain Lion Hunting License Costs by State
Compare mountain lion tag prices, seasons, and license methods across states.
| State | Resident Tag | Non-Resident Tag | Season | Method | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $0.00 | $0.00 | Year-round | OTC | No limit |
| Montana | $19.00 | $320.00 | Dec–Apr | OTC | 1 lion per license |
| Idaho | $24.50 | $231.75 | Aug–Mar | OTC | 1-2 lions varies by zone |
| Utah | $30.00 | $248.00 | Year-round | OTC | No limit |
| Colorado | $55.53 | $302.56 | Nov–Mar | OTC | 1 lion per year |
Prices sourced from official state wildlife agencies. Last updated: 2026-03-13.
Mountain Lion Hunting Tips & Resources
Know the Regulations
Before your hunt, always verify current season dates, bag limits, and legal methods with the state wildlife agency.
Scout Your Area
Use public land maps and trail cameras to identify mountain lion habitat and travel patterns before season opens.
Safety First
Wear required blaze orange, carry your license, and follow all firearm safety rules while in the field.
Recommended Mountain Lion Hunting Gear
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Optics & Scopes
Quality optics for spotting and targeting mountain lion at distance.
Shop at Bass Pro
Hunting Apparel
Weather-appropriate camo and layering systems for mountain lion hunting.
Shop at Cabela's
Field Accessories
GPS units, trail cameras, calls, and other mountain lion hunting essentials.
Shop on AmazonMountain Lion Hunting License FAQ
Is mountain lion hunting legal?
Yes, mountain lion hunting is legal in approximately 14 states, primarily in the western US. California banned mountain lion hunting in 1990. Each state has its own regulations, seasons, and permit requirements.
Do I need a special permit for mountain lion hunting?
Requirements vary by state. Montana and Idaho offer over-the-counter general lion licenses. Colorado requires a Mountain Lion Education Certificate. Utah recently eliminated the need for a separate permit, allowing harvest with just a valid hunting license.
What is the cheapest mountain lion tag?
Texas classifies mountain lions as non-game, so no additional tag is needed beyond a standard hunting license. Montana offers resident general mountain lion licenses at $19. Idaho's resident tag is $24.50.