Montana Fishing License Guide (2026)

Montana requires a fishing license for anyone 12 years or older. Big Sky Country is a fly-fishing paradise — the Yellowstone, Madison, Bighorn, and Missouri Rivers are among the finest trout waters in the world. Over 30,000 miles of streams and rivers.

12+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$20
Resident/yr
$86
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident Conservation + Fishing
 $20
Lifetime Resident
 $800

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
 $86
2-Day Non-Resident
 $27.50
10-Day Non-Resident
 $56

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior Conservation + Fishing (62+)
 $6
See the complete Montana cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

MT FWP Online ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (406) 444-2535
🏪

Retail Locations

Sporting goods stores, fly shops, FWP offices
Explore all Montana purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
13
Free Fishing Weekend (through Jun 14 )
All waters

License Validity

Montana licenses expire on the last day of February each year.

Full Montana free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 12 Exemption

Children under 12 do not need a fishing license.

👴

Senior Discount (62+)

Montana residents 62+ get discounted conservation license.

♿

Disabled Veterans

Disabled veterans get free fishing license.

Full Montana exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 1000
Fine Range
misdemeanor
Offense Type

Misdemeanor with fines $50-$1,000.

Learn more about Montana fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to MT FWP Online Licensing ↗

  2. 2

    Select Your License Type

    Choose between resident/non-resident, duration, and water type based on your needs.

  3. 3

    Complete Payment & Download

    Pay online and receive your digital license instantly. You may also print a physical copy.