Fishing in Montana
Montana is the trout-fishing standard. The Madison, Yellowstone, Big Hole, Beaverhead, Bighorn, Missouri, and Blackfoot rivers run hundreds of miles of blue-ribbon water. Wild rainbows, browns, brookies, native cutthroat, and bull trout all share the watershed. Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the West, produces lake trout and lake whitefish. Fort Peck Reservoir gives up walleye, lake trout, and chinook salmon. Ice-out through fall, this state is hard to beat.
License Types & Fees
| License | Fee |
|---|---|
| Resident Conservation License Required prerequisite for the fishing license | $8.00 |
| Resident Youth Conservation (12–17) | $4.00 |
| Resident Senior Conservation (62+) | $4.00 |
| Non-Resident Conservation License | $10.00 |
| Resident AIS Prevention Pass Required for all anglers | $2.00 |
| Non-Resident AIS Prevention Pass | $7.50 |
| Resident Full-Season Fishing | $21.00 |
| Resident Youth Full-Season (12–17) | $10.50 |
| Resident Senior Full-Season (62+) | $10.50 |
| Resident 2-Day License | $5.00 |
| Non-Resident Full-Season Fishing | $100.00 |
| Non-Resident 1-Day License | $14.00 |
| Non-Resident 5-Day License | $56.00 |
Fees are subject to change. Confirm current pricing on the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website before purchasing.
Anglers 11 and under don't need a license. Most anglers need three pieces: a Conservation License, an AIS Prevention Pass, and a base fishing license. License year runs March 1 through the end of February. Resident Sportsman's and Non-Resident Combination licenses include the season fishing license bundled in.
Log Your Montana Catches
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Montana Fishing License FAQ
Where can I buy a Montana fishing license?
Montana fishing licenses are sold online by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, and are also available from authorized retailers, bait shops, and sporting goods stores across the state.
Who issues fishing licenses in Montana?
Fishing licenses in Montana are issued by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.