What You Pay for a Montana Fishing License

A Montana fishing license costs between $15 and $127 depending on how long you want it and whether you live in the state. Residents pay less than non-residents for the same duration. A resident annual license runs $15; a non-resident annual license is $127. If you only want to fish for a few days, Montana sells short-term licenses at lower prices.

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks sets these prices and updates them periodically. The amounts listed here reflect current pricing, but you should confirm the exact cost when you purchase because rates can change. You buy licenses through the department's website, by phone, or at authorized vendors around the state.

Key Takeaways

  • Montana resident annual licenses cost $15; non-resident annual licenses cost $127.
  • Short-term licenses for 2 days, 10 days, or 3 days cost less than annual licenses and are available to both residents and non-residents.
  • You can purchase a license online through the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website, by phone, or at sporting goods stores and tackle shops across the state.
  • You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to a game warden if asked.

Resident vs. Non-Resident License Prices

Montana charges residents and non-residents different rates. Residents — people who have lived in Montana for at least 90 days — pay $15 for an annual license. Non-residents pay $127 for the same annual license. This price difference reflects Montana's policy of offering lower rates to people who live in the state year-round.

If you are a non-resident but plan to fish only a few days, a short-term license may cost less overall than an annual license. A 10-day non-resident license costs $35. A 2-day non-resident license costs $15. A 3-day non-resident license costs $20. Residents can also buy short-term licenses at reduced rates if they do not want to commit to a full year.

Short-Term License Options

Montana offers several short-term licenses for people who fish occasionally or are visiting the state. A 2-day license costs $15 for non-residents and $5 for residents. A 3-day license costs $20 for non-residents and $7 for residents. A 10-day license costs $35 for non-residents and $10 for residents.

These short-term licenses are valid for consecutive calendar days. If you buy a 2-day license on a Friday, it covers Friday and Saturday. The license expires at the end of the second day. Short-term licenses are useful if you are visiting Montana for a vacation or a fishing trip and do not plan to return.

Where to Buy a Montana Fishing License

You can purchase a Montana fishing license online through the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website at fwp.mt.gov. The online system lets you buy a license when ready and print it at home or have it sent to your phone. This is the fastest option if you need a license before you go fishing.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks office. Authorized vendors throughout Montana — including sporting goods stores, tackle shops, and some grocery stores — sell licenses in person. Call ahead to confirm a vendor has the license type you want in stock.

What the License Covers

A Montana fishing license allows you to fish in the state's public waters, including rivers, streams, and lakes. The license does not specify which waters you can fish or which species you can keep — those rules are set by separate fishing regulations. You must follow Montana's daily catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures regardless of which license you hold.

The license covers freshwater fishing only. If you want to fish in saltwater or ocean waters outside Montana, you need a separate license from that state or country. Some special fisheries — like certain trout streams or private land — may require additional stamps or permits beyond the basic license.

Special Stamps and Additional Permits

Montana offers optional stamps that let you fish for specific species or in specific waters. A conservation stamp costs $10.50 and supports habitat work. Some anglers buy it voluntarily; it is not required to fish. A trout stamp may be required if you want to fish for certain trout species in designated waters — check the current regulations to see if you need one.

If you want to fish on private land, you may need written permission from the landowner in addition to your license. Some private waters in Montana are open to the public during certain seasons; others are closed. The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website lists which private waters are open and what permits or stamps you need.

Checking Current Prices and Regulations

Fishing license prices and regulations change, and Montana updates them periodically. Before you buy, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website at fwp.mt.gov to confirm the current price for the license type you want. The website also lists all current fishing regulations, including catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures.

You can also call the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks office directly to ask about current prices and rules. Having the correct information before you fish saves time and keeps you from breaking a regulation by accident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license if I fish on private land with the owner's permission?

Yes. Montana requires a license for all freshwater fishing, including on private land. The owner's permission lets you be on the land, but you still need a valid fishing license. The only exception is if you are under 15 years old and fishing with a licensed adult who is supervising you directly.

Can I fish with my license from another state?

No. You must have a Montana fishing license to fish in Montana waters. Licenses from other states are not valid in Montana. If you are a resident of another state visiting Montana, you need to buy a non-resident Montana license.

How long is a Montana fishing license good for?

An annual license is valid for one calendar year from the date you buy it. Short-term licenses are valid for the number of consecutive days you purchase — 2 days, 3 days, or 10 days. Once the license expires, you must buy a new one to fish legally.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Montana law. A game warden can issue a citation, which carries a fine. The amount of the fine depends on the violation. You are required to carry your license with you and show it to a warden if asked.

Is there a discount for seniors or disabled people?

Montana offers reduced-price licenses for residents who are 62 or older and for residents with disabilities. Contact the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks office or check their website for current senior and disability license prices and how to purchase them.