Montana

Fishing in Montana

Public access, boat launches, regulations, and water conditions for Montana’s major rivers and lakes — so you know where the public access is, and what you can catch, before you go.

23 waters mapped in Montana
Beaverhead RiverBighorn LakeBighorn RiverBitterroot RiverBlackfoot RiverCanyon Ferry LakeClark ForkFlathead LakeFlathead RiverFort Peck LakeGallatin RiverHebgen LakeHungry Horse ReservoirJefferson RiverKootenai RiverLake ElwellLake KoocanusaMadison RiverMissouri RiverRock CreekRuby RiverSmith RiverYellowstone River

Fishing in Montana — FAQ

Where can I fish in Montana?

Guidepole maps 23 major Montana waters — including Beaverhead River, Bighorn Lake, Bighorn River — with public bank access, boat launches, and current regulations. Open any water to see exactly where the public access is.

Do I need a fishing license in Montana?

Yes — Montana requires a valid fishing license for most fishing. Each Guidepole guide links the current official state regulations for that water.

What can I catch in Montana?

It depends on the water — Montana holds trout, salmon and steelhead, bass, and more. Every Guidepole guide lists the species recorded at that specific water.

Fish Montana with confidence

Guidepole Fish maps public access, boat launches, regulations and live conditions across Montana — with Gary to answer plain-language questions. Free on iPhone.

Get the app