All watercraft entering Montana are required to be inspected for aquatic invasive species. You must obtain an inspection before launching on Montana waters. Stop at all open inspections stations you encounter. Find inspections stations here
Boats with a ballast or bladder, such as wakeboard or wake-surfing boats, that intend to launch on Montana waters must be decontaminated before launching.
While planning your trip to Montana, if you find you will not encounter a watercraft inspection station on your way to your destination, Idaho and Wyoming inspection stations fulfill the before-launch requirements of Montana.
Stop at ALL open inspection stations you encounter in Montana where your watercraft may be re-inspected.
Non-resident watercraft launching in Montana must purchase a Vessel AIS Prevention Pass (AISPP). Purchase the Vessel AISPP at FWP regional offices or online here. Proof of purchase can be electronic (cell phone) or paper receipt, there is no decal.
Motorized watercraft fee is $30.
Required for all motorized watercraft, including sailboats, powered by a fuel or electric motor.
Nonmotorized watercraft fee is $10.
Required for all nonmotorized watercraft (both hard/rigid and inflatable) including drift boats, canoes, kayaks, rafts, catamarans, row boats, pedal boats, stand-up paddle boards, fishing pontoon boats and other similar vessels.
Vessel AISPP is NOT required for inner tubes, water sports toys, windsurfers/sailboards and air mattresses.
The Vessel AISPP expires on December 31.
The Vessel AISPP is not transferable between vessels.
Requirements for Commercially Hauled Watercraft Entering the State of Montana. MCA 80-7-10
Commercial haulers transporting watercraft should be aware of Montana’s laws and rules. MCA 80-7-1015
Penalties can reach up to a no bond felony. MCA 80-7-1014
It is illegal to transport aquatic invasive species, dead or alive, within the state of Montana. Aquatic invasive species can be plants, animals or diseases. MCA80-7-1010
All watercraft being transported in the state of Montana must stop at all open watercraft inspection stations. MCA80-7-1011
It is illegal to transport surface water in the State of Montana. ARM 12.5.706(e)
All aquatic vegetation must be removed from watercraft and trailers prior to transport. ARM12-5-706 (d)
All watercraft must be inspected prior to launch in the State of Montana. ARM 12-5-706(b)
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