Fishing in Montana’s stunning rivers, lakes, and streams is a popular pastime for both residents and visitors. However, before you can cast your line, you need to ensure you have a valid fishing license. In Montana, you are responsible for printing and carrying your licenses, permits, and carcass tags at all times when hunting, fishing, or recreating on state lands.
Types of Montana Fishing Licenses
To fish in Montana, most anglers need two licenses: a Conservation License and a Base Fishing License that is available for 2 days, 10 days, or the full season. Additionally, the Angler Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass (AISPP) is required for all individuals who fish in Montana.
There are several types of fishing licenses available in Montana, including:
- Full Season Fishing License: Enables you to fish from March 1 through the end of February of the following year.
- Short-Term License for 2 Consecutive Calendar Days
- Short-Term License for 10 Consecutive Calendar Days
- Resident Sportsman and Nonresident Combination licenses: Include a season fishing license.
Montana also offers special licenses for residents with disabilities, visually-impaired residents, and military veterans with a Purple Heart or Legion of Valor Medal.
Purchasing a Montana Fishing License
You have a couple of options when it comes to purchasing a Montana fishing license in 2024:
- Online: You can purchase your license online through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website. Once you complete your purchase, you can print your license immediately.
- License Providers: You can visit one of the many Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks license providers located throughout the state.
It’s important to note that licenses are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Exemptions and Special Permits
There are a few exceptions to the fishing license requirement in Montana:
- Youth under 12: Anyone 11 years old or younger is not required to have a fishing license, including a Conservation or AIS Prevention Pass. However, they must still observe all limits and regulations.
- Educational events and fishing clinics: Free fishing license exemptions are available to qualified educational events and fishing clinics for a specific date and location.
- Care Facility License: The manager or director of an eligible facility licensed in Montana may apply for permission to take supervised residents fishing during activities approved by the facility.
Montana also offers discounted licenses for residents with disabilities and a lifetime fishing license for the blind.
Carrying Your License
As mentioned earlier, you are responsible for printing and carrying your licenses, permits, and carcass tags at all times when hunting, fishing, or recreating on state lands in Montana. While you don’t have to print the license, it’s important to have it readily available in case you are asked to present it by a wildlife officer.
You can print your license or save it digitally on your phone or other device. Some anglers prefer to laminate their licenses to protect them from wear and tear while out on the water.
Fishing Regulations and Conservation
Montana has its own set of fishing laws and regulations that need to be followed in order to protect their fish populations. These regulations include:
- Limits on the number and size of fish that can be caught
- Restrictions on certain types of fishing gear
- Closed areas and seasons for certain species
By purchasing a fishing license and following the regulations, you are contributing to the conservation of Montana’s aquatic resources and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the state’s incredible fishing opportunities.
In conclusion, while you are responsible for printing and carrying your Montana fishing license in 2024, there are several convenient ways to obtain one. Whether you choose to purchase your license online or from a local provider, make sure you have it with you whenever you go fishing in Montana. By doing so, you are not only complying with the law but also supporting the conservation efforts that keep Montana’s waters healthy and thriving.