Be prepared to fish Montana in any season. Visit Helena’s guide to waterway access, license information, and special reports for anglers. Helena, Montana, has something for every fishing adventure. An abundance of fishing access anglers must be ready for the lakes, creeks, and rivers. From fly-fishing to ice fishing,
Visit Helena wants to help anglers prepare for a Montana trip with the most up-to-date guide to fishing in our waterways this season. Keep up-to-date with any closures, special announcements, and tips monthly or as needed throughout the year. Get your rod, waders, and boat prepped for a fishing adventure in Helena, Montana!
Do you know what they say about the weather in Montana? Wait for five minutes. Anglers must be prepared for changing elements from water flows on the river, winds on the lakes, and sunshine to thunderstorms. In this section, you can find the latest resources for closures, water table resources, and fishing restrictions on our waterways. If you are looking for immediate information, call the Helena Visitor Center.
For the most updated waterway access visit Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks News & Updates. Looking for weather updates in the surrounding Helena area, check the latest NOAA forecast and waterflows from USGS.
Eliza Wiley Independent Record – From left Kailen Goins, 10, fishes from the Montana Wild fishing pier on the southwest end of Spring Meadow Lake State Park while his sister watches on.
Fishing License Information
The purchase of a Montana fishing license helps keep boat launches maintained, waterways clean, and access future anglers to the opportunity to experience the art of fishing. Find the most updated information regarding fees for in-state and out-of-state licenses. Montana made it easy for everyone to purchase a license, head to the online portal and register in less than 30 minutes! If you don’t want to register online here is a list of places in Helena anglers can purchase a license.
Before apply for a fishing license here are three things to know: – Know the Fishing Districts. These are specific to the region (Western, Central, and Eastern) – Know what type of waterways. The license is specific to waterways (lake, river, etc.) – Review the Regulations and Exception Policies.
Out-of-State License Information & Fees
Full Season: $100.00 Short Term License (Two-Day): $14 Short-Term License (5 Consecutive Year): $56 1-Day: $14
In-State License Information & Fees
Full Season: $21 Short Term License (Two-Day): $5
Youth (12 – 17): $10.50 Senior (65+): $10.50
Fly Fishing the Little Blackfoot River West of Helena, MT
How-To Prepare Fishing Trip
Don’t forget your fishing guidelines & license.
Know where to go – with so many great fishing locations it is hard to choose
Keep updated with the latest news & conditions
Plot your course
Choose Your Accommodations wisely – camping/hotel/lodging
Helena has more than its share of exciting activities - the tough part is narrowing things down! Planning ahead is the single best way to make sure your trip is everything it can be. Spend some time browsing around to find the attractions you’re most interested in.
Star, Save and Share
When you come across something that grabs your attention, click the star in the top corner to add it to your trip plan. Pretty simple, right? When you’re done, share and compare your personalized plan with family and friends! It’s your best bet for designing the ultimate visit.
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