Montana Trapping
License 2026
Complete guide to trapping licenses in Montana - resident and nonresident fees, trap check hours, regulated species, pelt reporting requirements, and bobcat or otter permit rules. Montana is one of the premier trapping states in the western U.S. with abundant populations of beaver, mink, marten, lynx, bobcat, and coyote. A general trapping license is required for all furbearers. A separate bobcat permit and harvest tag are required for bobcat.
Montana Trapping License Requirements
Montana requires a valid trapping license to trap furbearing animals. Review all requirements before setting traps.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Resident Fee | $15.00 |
| Nonresident Fee | $50.00 |
| Separate From Hunting License | Yes - separate purchase required |
| Trapper Education Required | Not required |
| Trap Check Requirement | Every 24 hours |
| Trap Tagging Required | Yes - name & address required |
| Pelt Reporting Required | Not required |
| Bobcat Permit Required | Yes - separate permit |
| Otter Permit Required | Not required |
| Trap Type Restrictions | Conibear traps limited by jaw spread size in certain areas. No body-gripping traps larger than 8" jaw spread on public lands near trails. |
Trappable Species in Montana
The following furbearing species may be legally trapped in Montana with the appropriate license and during open seasons. Some species may require additional permits.