Montana regulations
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Montana Fishing & Boating Regulations

Who oversees licensing in Montana, and what to check before you launch.

Governing Agency

Fishing licenses and boating regulations in Montana are administered by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. Requirements — license fees, size and bag limits, boat registration, and required safety equipment — are set and updated by this agency, not by Boatzia.

Find Montana's current fishing license requirements →

Boat Registration

Most motorized boats in Montana must be registered with the state — requirements vary by boat type and length. Check current registration rules before launching.

Find Montana's boat registration requirements →

Before you launch, always check:

  • Current license requirements for your age and residency status
  • Size and bag limits for the species you're targeting — these vary by water body
  • Required safety equipment (life jackets, fire extinguisher, sound-signaling device)
  • Any local or seasonal closures on the specific water you're visiting

Browse all 49 counties with boat ramps in Montana on our Montana ramp directory.