Montana’s spring bite is already turning on—and 2026 fishing licenses are available now. Here’s the simple breakdown of resident and nonresident costs, the required Conservation License, species-specific permits (like paddlefish and sturgeon), and the quickest ways to buy through FWP before the opener rush.

Montana’s spring gobbler season opens April 15, 2026 in most districts—and the hunters who tag out usually aren’t winging it on opening morning. Use mid-March to locate winter flocks, mark roosts, identify strut zones, and dial in your calling plan so you’re ready when the woods light up with gobbling.