Hefty Increases for Flathead Lake Area Fishing, Recreation Fees

What was in the comment period phase is now in the done deal phase. And you will definitely notice the difference. Very soon.

In December of last year, we reported that the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes  were proposing significant fee increases for the Flathead Indian Reservation Joint Tribal/State Fishing and Bird Hunting and Recreation Regulations. After the comment period expired and input was reviewed, those proposed fee increases were approved. And they apply to Montana residents and non-residents alike.

If you fish, recreate and even in some cases hunt on the Flathead Reservation, you will definitely want to be aware of these changes. Here we highlight some of the most frequently-purchased licenses and fees that are affected.

Camping Stamp 18 and Older: For all categories of residences – increase camping stamp cost from $20 to $100.

Residents of the Reservation:

Increase annual Conservation License from $20 to $40.

Increase Disabled License from $17 to $37.

Non-Residents of the Reservation:

Increase annual Conservation License for both age categories from $23 to $100.

Increase 3-Day Conservation License from $19 to $80.

Increase 3-Day Combined Conservation/Fishing License to $105.

Increase Disabled License from $17 to $100.

Non-Residents of the State of Montana:

Increase annual Conservation License for both age categories from $26 to $100.

Increase 3-Day Conservation License from $19 to $80.

Increase 1-Day Combined Conservation /Fishing License to $80.

Increase 3-Day Conservation/Fishing License to $146.

Increase Disabled License from $17 to $100.

South End of Flathead Lake: Note that you can still fish the south end of Flathead Lake for a total fee of $21, if you are a resident of Montana.

Our thanks to the Montana Outdoor Radio Show for detailing the increases, which go into effect March 1. More fee increases are detailed here.