Planning a fishing trip to Glacier National Park? Northwest Montana offers world-class fly fishing opportunities, and Glacier National Park stands out as a unique destination where you can fish without a license.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about fishing in and around Glacier Park.
Do You Need a Fishing License for Glacier National Park?
No fishing license required inside park boundaries. Glacier National Park is one of the few places in Montana where you can fish without purchasing a state fishing license. According to the National Park Service, anglers only need to obtain current fishing regulations from any visitor center or ranger station before fishing. The National Parks Service states:
“No license or permits are required to fish inside the boundaries of Glacier National Park. Fishermen need to stop at a Visitor Center or Ranger Station to obtain a current copy of park fishing regulations.”
Boundary Waters Exception
While you don’t need a license to fish in the park, boundary waters are different. If you decide to fish the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, for example, you will need a license. If you’re planning to fish any of the boundary waters of the park, pick up your fishing license at Sportsman Ski Haus in Whitefish or Kalispell, or any of our locally-owned fly shops.
Fishing Gear Needed for Fishing in Glacier National Park
Bring artificial flies or single-hook lures appropriate for trout fishing, a suitable rod and reel combination, and rubber-soled wading boots. Remember that felt-soled boots are prohibited to prevent invasive species spread.
Glacier National Park Fishing Regulations
Additionally, there are a few regulations to know about, which apply to all waters within the park. These include the following:
- Fishing for bull trout is prohibited. Any bull trout caught accidentally must be released.
- Any rod or line used to fish must be handheld.
- Anglers cannot use fish or fish parts as lures, including non-preserved fish eggs of any species.
- You cannot collect any bait, including worms and insects, within the park’s boundaries.
- Chumming the waters to attract fish is illegal.
- Fishing with nets, traps, drugs, explosives, or seines is illegal.
- Snagging fish in park waters is illegal.
- Anglers must use artificial flies or lures with a single hook only.
- Any fishing on Lower McDonald Creek must be catch-and-release.
What Kind of Fish are in the Rivers Around Glacier National Park?
While Glacier National Park used to stock fish in park waters to promote fishing, they ended the practice in recent years.
Cutthroat trout are the most common native species you’ll encounter, thriving in the park’s cold, clear waters. Bull trout, while present, are protected and must be released if caught. Lake trout inhabit the deeper park lakes, while brook trout can be found in various streams and smaller water bodies throughout the park.
Glacier offers exceptional fishing throughout its waters, though navigating unfamiliar terrain can be challenging without local knowledge. Prime fishing areas include numerous park lakes and streams, with specific locations varying by season and fish behavior patterns.
Should You Book Guided Fishing Tours?
While the park offers some of the best fishing in the world, it can be tough to navigate it on your own. That’s why so many visitors choose to book guided fishing tours with Great Northern Resort.
Professional guides from Great Northern Resort fish these rivers throughout the season, developing intimate knowledge of seasonal patterns, prime locations, and effective techniques for landing trophy fish. They provide all necessary equipment and boats, eliminating the hassle of transporting gear. More importantly, their expertise helps you navigate park regulations while maximizing your time on the water. Guided tours also offer instruction on proper catch-and-release techniques, ensuring the fish populations remain healthy for future generations of anglers.
When your day of fishing is over, we also offer a comfortable lodge and resort, perfect for relaxing and kicking your feet up. Extend your trip with a few days of whitewater rafting, and some delicious meals at the Red Caboose Cafe. We’re the one-stop-shop for all your Montana fun.
Plan Your Complete Glacier Park Fishing Trip
Great Northern Resort serves as your headquarters for a complete Montana fishing experience. After a day on the water, relax in comfortable lodge accommodations. For multi-day trips, consider adding whitewater rafting to diversify your adventure. The convenient location near Glacier National Park means less driving and more time enjoying Northwest Montana’s outdoor offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fishing season varies by location within the park. Always check current regulations for specific dates and any temporary restrictions that may apply to particular water bodies.
Most park waters allow harvest within specified limits, though designated catch-and-release areas like Lower McDonald Creek require returning all fish to the water. Always verify current regulations before keeping any fish.
Since no license is required, there are no age restrictions, making Glacier an ideal destination for family fishing trips where children can fish alongside adults.
