Introduction
Montana offers spectacular boating on Flathead Lake, Fort Peck Lake, Yellowstone River, Missouri River, and countless other lakes and rivers. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks manages boating regulations and safety education across the state.
At a Glance
Registration
All motorboats, personal watercraft, motorized pontoons, and sailboats 12 feet in length and longer must be permanently registered through the County Treasurer's Office. Certificate of Ownership: $10. Fees: motorboats/PWC/pontoons under 16ft and sailboats 12-16ft: $65.50; 16-19ft (or PWC 16ft+): $125.50; 19ft and longer: $295.50. Montana boats are no longer required to have validation decals on their vessel.
Safety Education
Montana has operator age limits for motorboats and personal watercraft. The 2025 Montana Boating Regulations PDF provides comprehensive information on regulations including water body restrictions, PWC rules, life jackets, motor size limits, noise limitations, and rules of the road.
Safety Equipment
Life jackets and other required safety equipment must be carried on all vessels as specified by Montana and US Coast Guard regulations. Equipment requirements vary by vessel type and length.
Boating Laws
Montana boating regulations cover water body restrictions, personal watercraft rules, motor size limitations, noise limitations, rules of the road, and enforcement. The operator of a boat involved in a collision, accident, or other casualty must render practical assistance and provide name, address, and identification. Boating accident report forms are available from the county sheriff's office, game wardens, or Montana FWP offices.
Where to Boat
Major boating waters include Flathead Lake, Fort Peck Lake, Canyon Ferry Lake, Hungry Horse Reservoir, the Missouri River, Yellowstone River, Clark Fork River, Bighorn Lake, and Koocanusa Reservoir. The state offers everything from large reservoir boating to river floating.
Invasive Species
Montana has aquatic invasive species regulations. Boaters must take precautions including cleaning, draining, and drying their vessels to prevent the spread of AIS.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does boat registration cost in Montana?
Fees range from $65.50 for vessels under 16ft to $295.50 for vessels 19ft and longer. Certificate of Ownership costs $10.
Does Montana require validation decals?
No, Montana boats are no longer required to have validation decals on their vessel.