How Much Does a Montana Fishing License Cost in 2024?

Fishing in Montana offers a diverse array of opportunities, from cold mountain streams to warm prairie rivers, and from fly fishing to trolling. Whether you’re seeking solitude, a meal, or the catch of a lifetime, the Big Sky Country has something for every angler. However, before you can wet a line, you need to make sure you have the proper licenses and permits.

Base License Requirements and AIS Prevention Pass

In Montana, a valid fishing license is required for anyone 12 years of age or older who wants to fish in state waters. This license allows you to fish for and possess any fish or aquatic invertebrate authorized by the state’s fishing regulations. It is nontransferable and nonrefundable.

Most anglers need two licenses to fish in Montana:

A Conservation License
A Base Fishing License

Additionally, the Angler Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass (AISPP) is required for all individuals who fish in Montana. This program was initiated by the 2017 Montana Legislature to help fund the fight against aquatic invasive species.

Anyone 11 years old or younger is not required to have a fishing license, including a Conservation or AIS Prevention Pass. However, youth anglers (11 or younger) must still observe all limits and regulations.

To qualify for a resident license, a person must meet the criteria set out in MCA 87-2-102 and 202.

Conservation License Fees

The Conservation License is required for both residents and nonresidents, regardless of age, to fish in Montana. Here are the costs:

Resident Cost: $8
Youth 12-17 Resident Cost: $4
Senior 62 Resident Cost: $4
Nonresident Cost: $10

The Conservation License includes the State Lands Recreation Use Permit, which covers a combination of fishing, hunting, and trapping. It also allows both residents and visitors who are members of the Legion of Valor to fish, regardless of their age.

Angler Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass (AISPP)

The AISPP is required for all individuals who fish in Montana. The costs are:

Resident Cost: $2
Nonresident Cost: $7.50

This pass was initiated by the 2017 Montana Legislature to help fund the fight against aquatic invasive species.

Base Fishing License Fees

The Base Fishing License allows you to fish from March 1 through the end of February of the following year. Here are the costs:

Full Season
Resident Cost: $21
Youth 12-17 Resident Cost: $10.50
Senior 62 Resident Cost: $10.50
Nonresident Cost: $100
Short-Term Resident License for 2 Consecutive Calendar Days
Resident Cost: $5
Youth 12-17 Resident Cost: $5
Senior 62 Resident Cost: $5
1 Day Nonresident License
Nonresident Cost: $14
Short-Term Nonresident License for 5 Consecutive Calendar Days
Nonresident Cost: $56

Resident Sportsman and Nonresident Combination licenses include a season fishing license.

Special Montana Licenses

There are a few special licenses available for certain groups in Montana:

Resident with a Disability Conservation License: Available to Montanans who are permanently and substantially disabled. They can also purchase other licenses at a discounted price.
Lifetime Fishing License for the Blind: Available to visually-impaired Montana residents. They need to apply directly with the Department of Fish, Wildlife, & Parks (FWP) and provide medical certification. A Conservation License is not required.
Purple Heart and Legion of Valor Exemption: Military veterans with a Purple Heart and/or Legion of Valor Medal can fish with just a Conservation License, regardless of residency status and age. They need to provide verification of their Purple Heart and DD 214 Form (or Legion of Valor membership card).
Care Facility License: Available to managers or directors of facilities such as homes for people with developmental or severe disabilities, and long-term and personal care homes in the state. This permit allows them to take supervised Montana residents fishing when approved by the facility.

In addition to the license fees, there is a nonrefundable $5 application fee for most licenses. The exception is moose, sheep, goat and bison licenses, which have a $10 application fee.

Fishing in Montana is a popular pastime that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or nonresident, young or old, there are licenses and permits available to suit your needs. Just make sure you have the proper documentation before you head out on the water.