Last Updated: 2026-01-26 | Source: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (fwp.mt.gov)
Regulations can change. Always verify current rules at fwp.mt.gov before fishing.
The Madison River from Quake Lake to Ennis Lake is catch-and-release only, artificial lures and flies only, with barbless single-point hooks required from Varney Bridge to Ennis Lake. The fishing season runs from the third Saturday in May through November 30.
Anyone 12 years or older must have a valid Montana fishing license to fish the Madison River. Children 11 and under do not need a license but must follow all catch limits and regulations. All anglers also need a Conservation License and Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass (AISPP).
| License Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Conservation License | $10 |
| Season Fishing License | $100 |
| 5-Day Fishing License | $56 |
| 1-Day Fishing License | $14 |
| AIS Prevention Pass | $7.50 |
| Total (Season) | $117.50 |
Montana fishing licenses are available through several channels:
Yes. Anyone 12 years or older needs a valid Montana fishing license, conservation license, and Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass.
From Quake Lake to Ennis Lake, the Madison River is catch-and-release only for trout. Below Ennis Dam, anglers may keep 5 trout per day with only 1 over 18 inches.
Barbless, single-point hooks are required from Varney Bridge to Ennis Lake. Other sections do not require barbless hooks, but many anglers use them voluntarily.
The Madison River fishing season runs from the third Saturday in May through November 30 for the upper river sections. Below Ennis Dam, the river is open year-round.
Non-resident season fishing license costs $100, plus $10 conservation license and $7.50 AIS Prevention Pass, totaling $117.50.
No. The Madison River from Quake Lake to Ennis Lake is restricted to artificial lures and flies only.
This information is provided as a general reference and was last updated 2026-01-26. Fishing regulations can change at any time. Always check the current Montana FWP regulations at fwp.mt.gov before fishing.