Current rules/regulations for Fisherman Access to Montana Streams ? (Bozeman: law, bars)

[JimBaker488]

I'm pleased to say I'm making my plans for another visit to the great state of Montana in September to enjoy the beautiful Fall scenery and attempt to catch a few trout while I'm visiting the state. You folks are great hosts and I always behave while I'm visiting, plus I'll be leaving a fair chunk of greenbacks in Montana during my visit, so hopefully you won't mind me being there for awhile.
I know in the last couple years there's been quite a bit of effort by property owners to limit river/creek access that run thru their private property. What kind of changes if any have lawmakers in Montana made in this area in the last 12 months or so ? Specifically it's my understanding that a stream that passes thru a public road, the fishermen can work that stream bank after entering from the road into a private parcel of land if he stays on the bank(s). Is that still the Montana law ?

[happiness is]

Here is a link to regulations on the Montana state Fish, Wildlife & Parks web site.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks :: 2012 Fishing Regulations

Hope that helps.

H.I.
Bozeman

[historyfan]

Actually stream access law says within high water marks...not floodplain..so standing/boating in water or standing on gravel bars at about same elevation as water is legal. It is not likely you would be within the highwater mark standing on the bank.
The law is easier to visualize on rivers or big streams. Small streams you can wade in from road, fish standing in the water, and wade back out. You can not go have a picnic on the bank or down in the rancher's field. You can not use tge water as way in to go hiking etc.
The brochure printed by Montana wildlife and parks has drawings that make it easier to understand. There are lots of trout to catch in Montana. Be certain to read regs for each body of water because some are catch and release.

[JimBaker488]

Sorry, didn't thank you guys for the info about fishing in Montana. I appreciate it !
I'll be out there next month, gettin excited ! I hope you get some relief on the drought out that way,
I hear and read it's pretty bad this summer ?

[DontLookPhoto]

They apply some extra fishing restrictions on some streams when the water temps gets high so it's a good idea to check with the authorities when you get here. It may not be too hot when you get here though. I think they have extra restrictions in place now on some streams due to the hot days we've been getting..

[JimBaker488]

Anything new come out of Helena or from the state Courts about changes on Montana Stream access law in the last 9-10 months ?