Montana

A nonresident annual fishing license in Montana costs $117.50. For comparison, Montana residents pay $31.00. Short-term options: Short-term options available; check site. The license year runs March 1 - February 28/29.

Purchase your Montana fishing license online at https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/fishinglicenses. Valid ID; must hold Conservation License + AIS Prevention Pass + Base Fishing License. Licenses are administered by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP).

Under 12 exempt; disabled resident reduced fees ($8 conservation + $2 AIS + $10.50 fishing). Always check the official Montana website for the most current exemption details and any additional categories that may qualify.

Conservation License required (base requirement); Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Pass required; all three components needed. Be sure to purchase any required stamps or endorsements before heading out, as they are often checked during enforcement.

Fishing seasons in Montana: General fishing season third Saturday in May through November 30 for many rivers; some waters year-round. Bag limits: Trout: 5/day combined most waters; specific regulations for wild trout; check individual water body limits. Always consult the current Montana fishing regulations for the most up-to-date season dates and limits, as they can change annually.

Catch-and-release only on many blue-ribbon streams; barbless hooks required in some areas; as of March 2026, all licenses must be purchased online. For the complete set of rules including gear restrictions, size limits, and special waters, visit the official Montana fish and wildlife website.

Montana has the following border water or reciprocal agreements: Yellowstone area waters may have specific agreements; border waters with Idaho, Wyoming, North Dakota. Texas is not directly included in these agreements, so a standard nonresident license is required.

For the most current regulations, license prices, and season dates, visit the official Montana fishing page at https://fwp.mt.gov/fish/license/. To purchase a license online, visit https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/fishinglicenses.