Montana License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Montana?
A Montana resident annual fishing license costs $31.00. Non-residents pay $117.50 for the same annual license.
Every Montana angler must also carry an Angler Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass bundled with the license purchase — $2 for residents and $7.50 for nonresidents — created by the 2017 Legislature specifically to fund the fight against invasive species like zebra mussels. (Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks)
Montana Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $31.00 | $117.50 | Full season (3 required components) |
| 1-Day (Non-Res) | N/A | $31.50 | Short-term option |
| Conservation License | $8.00 | $10.00 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
The Season License Is Actually Three Separate Fees
Montana's $31 resident full-season total breaks down into an $8 Conservation License, a $2 AIS Prevention Pass, and a $21 season Fishing License — all three required together. Non-residents pay $10 + $7.50 + $100 for the same $117.50 total. It's one price on the surface, three line items underneath.
Every License Must Now Be Purchased Online
As of March 1, 2026, Montana FWP requires all fishing licenses to be purchased online — walk-up, in-person sales are no longer an option. Plan to buy before your trip rather than expecting to pick one up locally.
Montana Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Montana's default statewide season windows and bag/size limits for the most commonly targeted species. Many individual lakes, rivers, and reservoirs carry their own special regulations that override these defaults — always confirm the rules for your specific water before you fish.
| Species | Season | Min. Size | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trout (combined species, streams) | Western District: 3rd Saturday in May (May 16, 2026) – Nov. 30 for rivers/streams; lakes open year-round. Central/Eastern Districts: generally year-round | No statewide min. (only 1 over 18" in streams) | 3/day in streams; 5/day in lakes (10 possession) |
Where to Buy a Montana Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Montana fishing licenses are typically available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods locations statewide, along with independent bait & tackle shops. Call ahead if you need a specific license type (combination, lifetime, or trout stamp) since not every retail counter carries every product.
Montana Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Montana fishing license?
A resident full-season license totals $31.00 (Conservation License + AIS Pass + Fishing License). Non-residents pay $117.50 total.
Why is Montana's license price split into parts?
The total combines three required purchases: a Conservation License, an Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass, and the season Fishing License itself.
Can I buy a Montana fishing license in person?
As of March 1, 2026, all licenses must be purchased online through Montana FWP — in-person walk-up sales are no longer available.
What are Montana's short-term non-resident options?
A 1-day license totals $31.50 and a 5-day totals $73.50, both cheaper than the full $117.50 season price.
Where can I buy a Montana fishing license?
Online through the official Montana FWP website.