Montana Salmon Fishing Regulations - Bag Limits & Size Rules
| Regulation Type | Statewide Rule | Special Waters (Some) | Notes |
|---|
* Always verify the specific regulations for your target water body. This table shows statewide minimums - individual lakes and rivers may be stricter. Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing Regulations.
Special Regulations - Montana's Most Popular Salmon Waters
These major fishing destinations have additional Salmon regulations beyond the statewide minimum. Verify the current Freshwater Fishing Regulations before every trip.
| Water Body | Region | Daily Bag | Size Limit | Special Notes |
|---|
License Required to Fish Salmon in Montana
A valid Montana freshwater fishing license is required to fish for Salmon. Here's exactly what you need and what exemptions apply.
| Angler Type | License Required | Fee | Valid Period |
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Montana Salmon Season Guide - Best Times to Fish
Top Montana Lakes for Salmon - Ranked
Flathead Lake provides excellent salmon trolling with Chinook and coho accessible throughout the open-water season. Trolling dodger-and-fly rigs and spoons along the thermocline is the standard approach. Check state regulations for current catch limits and any special gear restrictions.
Full guideFort Peck Lake is a quality salmon fishery in Montana. Fall runs provide river fishing for staging and running fish; lake and ocean trolling extends the season. Egg imitations, large spoons, and cut herring are standard presentations.
Full guideHavre Lake is a quality salmon fishery in Montana. Fall runs provide river fishing for staging and running fish; lake and ocean trolling extends the season. Egg imitations, large spoons, and cut herring are standard presentations.
Full guide