Responsible Recreation
Exploring With Care
With freedom comes a responsibility to protect these places and respect the people, wildlife and ecosystems that call them home.
Before You Go
- Leave an itinerary with someone at home
- Carry a paper map or download maps ahead of time
- Check conditions, including snowpack and fire danger
- Pack layers, food, water, sun protection and first aid
- Always carry bear spray
- Don't rely on your phone for directions or safety
Local search and rescue
Local search and rescue is often volunteer-based. Be self-sufficient and call for help only when it's truly an emergency.
Leave No Trace: 7 Principles
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impact
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of others
Trail Etiquette
- Stay on marked trails
- Keep dogs under control and pack out pet waste
- Don't play music on speakers
- Bikers yield to hikers and horseback riders
- Hikers yield to horseback riders
- Announce yourself when passing
- Give wildlife space and back away calmly
Fishing + Boating
What You Need to Know
- All anglers need a Montana fishing license
- All river recreationists need a Montana Conservation License
- Check seasonal regulations and species limits
- Practice catch-and-release properly
- Pack out all trash, including fishing line
Montana's Stream Access Law
Montana law allows public access to rivers and streams for recreation — up to the ordinary high-water mark — even through private land.
- You may not cross private land to access a stream without permission
- Respect fencing and posted signs
- Stay in the stream corridor
Fishing Best Practices
Fish barbless. Use a net. Unhook quickly and gently. Don't fish when water temps exceed 68°F. Follow Hoot Owl Restrictions from MT FWP.
Hunting: A Valued Tradition
Hunting Basics
- Valid Montana hunting license and conservation license required
- Follow seasonal regulations and land access rules
- Must have expressed landowner permission for private land
- Know the difference between private, state and federal lands
