Montana Poaching Investigation Results in 89 Citations, $36,785 in Fines and Three Lifetime Hunting Bans
VIDA, Mont. — A multi-year investigation by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) game wardens into illegal hunting activities in McCone County has resulted in 89 citations, more than $36,000 in fines and a combined 44 years of lost hunting privileges.
The investigation uncovered the illegal killing of deer, antelope and upland game birds over the course of approximately a decade, involving hunters from Montana and four other states.
According to FWP, 13 suspects were charged with more than 80 wildlife violations, and investigators seized or received the surrender of more than 100 deer and antelope mounts, antlers and horns.
Three nonresident hunters received lifetime bans from hunting in Montana.
Investigation Began in 2024
Montana FWP game wardens began actively investigating Vida-area landowner Kelly Nelson in 2024, along with hunters who frequently visited his property.
Investigators determined that Montana residents and hunters from Washington, North Dakota, Wyoming and Indiana had illegally hunted on Nelson's farm and neighboring properties in McCone County.
The investigation examined violations committed over approximately 10 years.
As the investigation progressed, wardens seized or received the surrender of more than 100 deer and antelope mounts, antlers and horns associated with the illegal hunting activities.
Nearly $37,000 in Fines and Decades of Lost Hunting Privileges
The investigation resulted in significant penalties for those involved.
According to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks:
13 suspects were charged with more than 80 violations.
89 citations were issued.
$36,785 in fines were assessed.
44 years of hunting privileges were lost collectively.
Three nonresident hunters received lifetime Montana hunting bans.
More than 100 mounts, antlers and horns were seized or surrendered.
One additional hunter's case is awaiting final resolution from the McCone County Attorney's Office.
Landowner Loses Hunting Privileges for Eight Years
Under a plea agreement, Nelson was fined and lost his Montana hunting privileges for eight years.
FWP did not specify the amount of Nelson's individual fine in the information released.
The investigation also involved numerous other hunters who had accessed Nelson's property and neighboring lands.
Game Warden Calls Violations Disregard for Ethical Hunting
McCone County game warden John Huberty, who patrols the area, said the investigation revealed serious violations of Montana's hunting laws.
"McCone County is a special place with world class wildlife," Huberty said.
"These hunters displayed zero regard for ethical hunter behavior or the lawful pursuit of these animals; however, all but two of these subjects pled guilty to their offenses, were accountable, and cooperated with the investigation."
The case highlights the work of Montana game wardens in investigating wildlife crimes, including violations that may have occurred years before being discovered.
Public Encouraged to Report Wildlife Violations
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks encourages anyone with information about illegal hunting, fishing or other wildlife-related violations to report suspicious activity.
Information can be submitted through the state's TIP-MONT reporting system.
Ways to Report Wildlife Violations:
Online: tipmont.mt.gov
Phone: 1-800-TIP-MONT (1-800-847-6668)
In Person: Contact a local Montana FWP game warden.
Individuals who provide information leading to enforcement action may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.
Montana FWP continues to encourage hunters and outdoor recreationists to follow wildlife regulations and report suspected violations to help protect the state's wildlife resources.
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