Montana Fishing Season and Limits for 2025–2026 by Month – Species, Licenses & Hotspots
🌊 Welcome to Big Sky Angling Country
Imagine yourself standing waist-deep in glistening water, a wild rainbow trout dancing on the end of your line as the morning mist rises off the surface. The limitless blue sky behind you is punctuated by snow-capped peaks. This makes Montana one of the most renowned fishing locations in North America, and it’s not just a pipe dream.
Montana’s waterways have something wonderful waiting for you, whether you’re an experienced fly fisher searching for monster browns or a family hoping to catch some pan-sized rainbows in a nearby reservoir. With hundreds of immaculate lakes and more than 170,000 miles of rivers and streams, the state provides top-notch freshwater fishing options that will entice you to return year after year.
There are numerous intriguing improvements in the 2025–2026 rules, particularly for trout fisherman. These regulations will be in effect from March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026. In order to better manage wild trout populations while preserving great fishing opportunities, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has modified district requirements and improved creel restrictions. Let’s go over all you need to know about seasons, bag limits, prime waterways, and licensing requirements before you pack your bags and go.
From secret alpine lakes overflowing with ruthless trout to Blue Ribbon trout streams like the Madison and Missouri Rivers, Montana is incredibly accessible for both locals and visiting fishermen. Just keep in mind that this state takes conservation seriously, so being aware of the regulations is essential to being a responsible angler.
📅 Quick Reference Table: Montana Fishing by Month
Here’s your at-a-glance guide to what’s biting when:
| Month | Prime Species | Season Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Rainbow Trout, Pike, Perch | Open (most waters) | Ice fishing popular on lakes; some rivers catch-and-release only |
| February | Brown Trout, Whitefish, Burbot | Open | Late winter = big browns; regulations expire Feb 28, 2026 |
| March | Rainbow Trout, Whitefish | Open | New regs start March 1; spring runoff begins late month |
| April | Rainbow Trout, Pike | Open | Runoff increases; some streams murky |
| May | Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat, Brook Trout | Western District rivers open 3rd Saturday | Prime time begins! May 17, 2025 opener |
| June | All Trout, Bass (warming waters) | Peak season | Best hatches; Father’s Day free fishing weekend (June 14-15) |
| July | Trout, Walleye, Pike, Bass | Peak season | Hot fishing! Watch for hoot owl restrictions |
| August | Brown Trout, Bass, Walleye | Peak season | Late summer prime time; hoppers on rivers |
| September | Brown Trout, Cutthroat | Open | Fall colors + big fish = magic |
| October | Trophy Brown Trout | Open | BEST month for big browns! Pre-spawn activity |
| November | Brown Trout, Pike, Whitefish | Western rivers close Nov 30 | Last month for Western District rivers |
| December | Pike, Perch, Whitefish | Lakes open year-round | Ice fishing begins; Central/Eastern rivers still open |
🎣 Free Fishing Weekends 2025: Mother’s Day (May 10-11) and Father’s Day (June 14-15)—no license required for anyone!
🐟 Popular Sport Fish: The Big Five
Rainbow Trout 🌈
Montana’s bread-and-butter species! These feisty fighters are found throughout the state and readily take flies, lures, and bait.
Season:
- Western District rivers: Third Saturday in May through November 30
- Central/Eastern Districts: Year-round in most waters
- Lakes/reservoirs: Open year-round statewide
Bag Limits:
- Combined trout limit (rainbow, brown, cutthroat, golden, grayling):
- Western District rivers: 3 daily, only 1 over 18 inches
- Central District rivers: 3 daily, only 1 over 18 inches, only 1 cutthroat
- Lakes/reservoirs: 5 daily and 10 in possession (includes cutthroat)
Hotspots: Missouri River near Craig (3,500+ trout per mile!), Bighorn River, Madison River, Rock Creek
Brown Trout 🟤
The trophy fish of Montana—browns can live 20+ years and reach massive sizes. October and November are prime time when these bruisers get aggressive before spawning.
Season: Same as rainbow trout (see above)
Bag Limits: Included in combined trout limits above
Pro Tip: If you’re chasing a Montana trophy, focus on the Madison, Yellowstone, Missouri, Big Hole, or Bighorn Rivers. These consistently produce 20-inch-plus fish, with occasional monsters topping 35 inches!
Special Notes: Many premier waters are catch-and-release only or have trophy regulations. Always check specific water exceptions.
Cutthroat Trout (Westslope, Yellowstone, Lahontan) 🔪
Montana’s native treasure! These gorgeous fish with their distinctive red “throat slash” are carefully protected.
Season:
- Many waters are catch-and-release only for cutthroat
- Western District: Catch-and-release during general season (May-November)
- Check specific water regulations carefully!
Bag Limits: When harvest is allowed, typically only 1 cutthroat within the combined trout limit
Conservation Alert: All bull trout (a char species, not a true trout) must be released immediately—they’re threatened and strictly protected.
Northern Pike 🦈
Montana’s freshwater “sharks”! These aggressive predators are a blast on light tackle and can reach impressive sizes.
Season: Year-round on most waters
Bag Limits:
- Western District: No limit—pike are actually invasive in many Western Montana waters, so harvest is encouraged
- Eastern District: Varies by water; many Eastern Montana reservoirs have 10-fish limits
Hotspots: Nelson Reservoir (trophy pike!), Fort Peck Reservoir, Noxon Rapids Reservoir
Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass 🐠
Warmwater warriors that provide fantastic summer action, especially in July and August.
Season: Year-round (bass are catch-and-release during spring spawn in some waters)
Bag Limits:
- Smallmouth: 5 daily and in possession
- Largemouth: 5 daily and in possession
Important Alert: Any smallmouth bass caught in Placid Lake must be immediately killed, kept, and reported to FWP within 24 hours—they’re a new invasive threat there.
Best Waters: Flathead Lake, Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Fort Peck, Hauser Lake
🦞 Specialty Species: Montana’s Unique Catches
Walleye 👁️
Montana’s Eastern District has incredible walleye fishing, while Western Montana actively tries to remove them from trout waters.
Regulations by District:
- Western District: All walleye caught must be killed immediately and kept. Report catches to FWP. (They’re invasive in Western Montana!)
- Eastern/Central Districts: 5 daily, only 2 may be sauger (similar species). Possession limit is 10, only 4 may be sauger.
Trophy Waters: Nelson Reservoir is widely considered Montana’s best walleye lake, with fish averaging 2-4 pounds and 8-10 pounders not uncommon. Fort Peck Reservoir is another walleye factory.
Paddlefish 🐋
One of Montana’s most unique angling opportunities! These prehistoric giants (think living fossils) can reach 100+ pounds. Catching one is like hooking a submarine.
Season: Draw permit only! Paddlefish seasons have changed for 2025-2026. Limited seasons typically run May-June.
Location: Missouri River below Fort Peck Dam (near the town of Intake)
How to Apply: Annual lottery through Montana FWP—apply early as permits are extremely limited!
Kokanee Salmon 🐟
Landlocked sockeye salmon that turn brilliant red during their fall spawn. They’re delicious eating!
Season: Year-round, but summer trolling (July-September) is most productive
Bag Limits: 5 daily and in possession
Top Waters: Flathead Lake, Lake Mary Ronan, Holter Lake
Lake Trout (Mackinaw) 🏔️
Deep-dwelling predators that can live 50+ years and exceed 40 pounds in Montana waters.
Season: Year-round
Bag Limits: Vary by water—many have reduced limits to protect populations. Flathead Lake, for example, has special mackinaw regulations.
Best Fishing: Swan Lake, Flathead Lake, Hungry Horse Reservoir
🐠 Panfish & Everyday Catches
Don’t overlook Montana’s abundant panfish—they’re perfect for kids, beginners, or when you just want to catch lots of fish!
| Species | Daily Bag Limit | Best Season | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow Perch | 10 daily and in possession (some waters have specific dates with different limits) | Summer through fall | Canyon Ferry, Fort Peck, Fresno Reservoir |
| Crappie (Black/White) | 10 daily and in possession | Spring spawn (April-May); summer | Canyon Ferry, Ackley Lake, Fort Peck |
| Bluegill | 10 daily and in possession | June-August | Numerous ponds and reservoirs statewide |
| Sunfish (Pumpkinseed, etc.) | 10 daily and in possession | Summer | Warm water ponds and lakes |
| Brook Trout | 10 daily and in possession | Year-round (check local seasons) | High mountain lakes and streams |
| Mountain Whitefish | 5 daily and in possession | Fall and winter | Rivers statewide—often caught while trout fishing |
Family-Friendly Tip: Yellow perch are especially fun for kids—they’re aggressive, easy to catch, and delicious. Try Canyon Ferry Reservoir or one of Montana’s many community fishing ponds.
🦆 Stocked & Managed Waters
Montana has a proud tradition of wild trout management (since 1974, the state stopped stocking waters suitable for natural reproduction), but FWP still stocks fish in lakes and ponds where natural reproduction doesn’t occur. This creates fantastic family fishing opportunities!
Stocked Species:
- Rainbow trout (most common)
- Yellowstone cutthroat trout
- Arctic grayling
- Kokanee salmon
Where to Find Stocking Info:
Check Montana FWP’s official fish stocking database to see exactly what’s been stocked, when, and where. You can search by region, species, or waterbody name.
Region 4 Ponds: FWP Region 4 maintains an excellent Ponds, Lakes, and Reservoirs Fishing Guide that details family-friendly stocked waters around Great Falls and surrounding areas.
Top Stocked Waters for Families:
- Ackley Lake (Region 4): Regularly stocked with rainbow trout
- Big Sandy Lake: Great access and consistent stocking
- Clark Fork River ponds: Numerous small ponds near Missoula
- Yellowstone River ponds: Urban fishing in Billings area
Unlike some states with weekly trout dump schedules, Montana focuses on strategic stocking to create quality fisheries, so don’t expect fresh stockers every Friday. Check the database for your target waters!
🌍 Public vs Private Waters: Access 101
Montana’s “stream access law” is one of the best in the nation, but it’s also misunderstood. Here’s the deal:
What You CAN Do:
✅ Fish any river or stream up to the ordinary high-water mark (even through private land!)
✅ Wade in the streambed
✅ Walk along the banks below the high-water mark
✅ Use public access points (bridges, FWP fishing access sites)
What You CAN’T Do:
❌ Trespass on private land to reach the water
❌ Walk above the high-water mark on private property without permission
❌ Anchor your boat on private property
❌ Cross private land without permission
Finding Public Access:
- Montana FWP designates hundreds of Fishing Access Sites (FAS) with parking, boat ramps, and trails
- The Montana FWP website has an interactive map showing all public access points
- Look for brown and white “Fishing Access Site” signs
- Many bridge crossings provide informal public access
Lakes and Reservoirs: Access is more restricted—you must access through public land or have landowner permission. Fort Peck, Canyon Ferry, Flathead Lake, and Hungry Horse Reservoir all have extensive public access.
Pro Tip: Download the MyFWP app before your trip! It shows fishing access sites, regulations, your licenses, and even works offline in areas without cell service.
🎟️ Montana Fishing License Guide
Montana requires anyone 12 years or older to have a valid fishing license. Here’s your complete breakdown:
Resident Licenses (Must live in MT 180+ days)
| License Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Conservation License (required first) | $8.00 | Prerequisite for all licenses |
| Season Fishing License | $21.00 | Total package: $31 with conservation license |
| Youth (12-17) Season | $10.50 | Youth conservation license: $4 |
| Senior (62+) Season | $10.50 | Senior conservation license: $8 |
| 2-Day Fishing License | $15.00 | Plus conservation license |
| AIS Prevention Pass | $7.50 | Required for all anglers (invasive species prevention) |
Total Resident Season Cost: About $38.50 ($8 conservation + $21 season + $7.50 AIS)
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Conservation License (required) | $10.00 | Prerequisite for all non-resident licenses |
| Season Fishing License | $100.00 | Valid March 1–Feb 28 |
| 2-Consecutive-Day | $22.00 | Perfect for weekend trips |
| 10-Consecutive-Day | $61.00 | Great for week-long vacations |
| Youth (15-17) | $10.00 | Plus $10 conservation license |
| AIS Prevention Pass | $7.50 | Required for everyone |
Total Non-Resident Season Cost: $117.50 ($10 conservation + $100 season + $7.50 AIS)
Non-Resident 2-Day Cost: $39.50 ($10 conservation + $22 two-day + $7.50 AIS)
Special Permits & Stamps
- Paddlefish Permit: Draw/lottery only (limited availability)
- Yellowstone National Park Permit: Separate from Montana license! $40 for 3 days, $55 for 7 days, $75 for season (available at park visitor centers or online)
Where to Buy:
- Online: Montana FWP Online Licensing System (easiest!)
- MyFWP Mobile App: Buy and store licenses on your phone
- In person: Sporting goods stores, FWP offices, many gas stations
Pro Tip: The MyFWP app is a game-changer. It stores your licenses, displays them for checking (works offline!), and you can even buy licenses from streamside if you forgot.
If you’re planning to also hunt, consider the combination hunting/fishing license—it saves money for those who pursue both outdoor sports. Similarly, if you frequently visit states like Minnesota or Wisconsin, look into reciprocal license agreements or multi-state options.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do kids need a fishing license in Montana?
A: Children under 12 can fish for free without a license. Youth 12-17 need a youth license (much cheaper than adult licenses). On Mother’s Day and Father’s Day weekends (May 10-11 and June 14-15, 2025), nobody needs a license—residents or non-residents, kids or adults!
Q: Can I use live bait in Montana?
A: Yes, in most waters! However, many premium trout waters are artificial lures only or have bait restrictions. For example, portions of the Madison River and many catch-and-release streams prohibit bait. Always check the specific water you’re fishing in the District Exceptions section of the regulations. Live bait fish must be legally obtained and can’t be transferred between watersheds.
Q: Are barbless hooks required?
A: Not statewide, but barbless hooks are required on many catch-and-release waters and are strongly encouraged everywhere. Portions of the Madison River, for example, have barbless-only regulations. Even when not required, barbless hooks protect fish and make hook removal easier.
Q: How do I report a trophy catch?
A: Montana doesn’t have a mandatory trophy reporting system for most species, but FWP encourages anglers to report exceptional catches for their Master Angler Program. Take photos, measurements (length and girth), and submit through the FWP website. For walleye in the Western District, reporting is mandatory within 24 hours.
Q: Is night fishing allowed?
A: Yes! Fishing is allowed 24 hours a day during open seasons unless specifically restricted (which is rare). Night fishing for brown trout in late summer can be incredibly productive. However, bowfishing has specific regulations and is generally restricted to invasive species like carp and suckers—check regulations carefully.
Q: What waters are catch-and-release only?
A: Dozens of Montana waters have catch-and-release or special trophy regulations. Notable ones include portions of the Madison River, Bighorn River below Afterbay Dam, many cutthroat streams, and specific sections of the Missouri River. All bull trout must be released immediately statewide. The 2025 regs include over 50 updated regulations, so download the official Montana FWP regulations booklet and check your specific water!
Q: What are “hoot owl restrictions”?
A: During hot summer weather (typically late July-August), Montana may implement “hoot owl restrictions” on certain rivers to protect stressed trout. This usually means fishing is only allowed early morning and evening (like an owl’s schedule—hence the name). Check FWP’s website during summer for current closures.
🗺️ Maps & Top 5 Must-Visit Hotspots for 2025-2026
Before heading out, check Montana FWP’s interactive fishing map to find access points, regulations, and current conditions.
🏆 Top 5 Montana Fishing Destinations:
1. Missouri River (Craig to Cascade section) 🥇
The most famous 35 miles of trout water in Montana! Over 3,500 rainbow trout and 600 brown trout per mile. Drift boat fishing is extremely popular. Artificial lures only in some sections.
- Best For: Trophy rainbows and browns, guided float trips
- Season: Year-round (check specific sections)
- Access: Multiple FWP access sites along Highway 15
2. Bighorn River 🥈
Montana’s “other” world-class tailwater below Yellowtail Dam. Incredibly productive with huge mayfly hatches. The first 13 miles are most famous.
- Best For: Consistent year-round fishing, wade fishing or floating
- Season: Year-round
- Special Note: Tribal conservation license required (separate from Montana license)
3. Madison River 🥉
“Fifty Mile Riffle” is legendary! This river flows through stunning scenery and offers varied water—from the park boundary through Ennis and beyond.
- Best For: Wading and floating, dry fly fishing
- Season: Third Saturday in May through Nov 30 (most sections)
- Regulations: Complex—multiple sections with different rules. Check carefully!
4. Flathead Lake 🏞️
The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi! Lake trout, pike, whitefish, perch, and excellent kokanee salmon fishing.
- Best For: Variety of species, family fishing, beautiful scenery
- Season: Year-round
- Access: Multiple public access points around the 185-mile shoreline
5. Yellowstone River 🦬
America’s longest free-flowing river originates in Yellowstone National Park. The upper river (near Livingston/Gardiner) is prime trout water, while lower sections offer warmwater species.
- Best For: Cutthroat and rainbows in upper river; variety downstream
- Season: Year-round (most sections)
- Notable: Some Yellowstone National Park sections have special regulations
Honorable Mentions: Rock Creek (near Missoula), Big Hole River, Gallatin River, Georgetown Lake, Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Fort Peck Reservoir
For comprehensive Montana fishing information and planning resources, the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks official website offers real-time updates, hatchery reports, and detailed water-specific regulations.
✅ Wrap-Up: Time to Wet a Line!
Montana isn’t just a fishing destination—it’s a lifestyle, a culture, and for many of us, a lifelong passion. Whether you’re after your first trout on a dry fly, a personal-best brown in October, or simply want to spend a sunny afternoon with the kids catching perch at Canyon Ferry, Big Sky Country delivers.
As you plan your 2025–2026 Montana angling adventures, remember these key points:
🎣 New regulations went into effect March 1, 2025—download the latest booklet!
🐟 Trout limits have changed in Western and Central districts—pay attention to combined trout rules
📱 MyFWP app is your best friend—licenses, regulations, and access maps in your pocket
🌊 Respect the resource—Montana’s wild trout populations are world-class because anglers care
🏔️ Explore beyond the famous rivers—hidden gems exist on lesser-known waters
Before you head out, double-check bag limits for your specific water (District Exceptions override standard regulations), make sure your AIS Prevention Pass is current, and consider hiring a local guide if you’re new to Montana waters—they know where the fish are holding and can dramatically shorten your learning curve.
Grab your rod, grab your license, and get out there. Montana’s rivers are calling, the trout are rising, and memories are waiting to be made.