Anglers Boost Montana’s Economy To The Tune Of $1.27 Billion

Research released by the University of Montana’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) in partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks found that in 2024, more than 450,000 anglers spent an estimated $1.27 billion on fishing trips in the state.

The findings underscore how central angling is to both Montana’s culture and its economy.

“Montana’s amazing angling opportunities are no secret, but this research shows just how important fishing is to communities and businesses around Montana,” said FWP Director Christy Clark.

The bulk of spending came from cold-water fishing, particularly for trout, which drew significant numbers of nonresident anglers. In total, cold-water fishing generated $1.1 billion in trip-related expenditures.

More than 70 percent of that spending came from visitors outside Montana, who poured money into lodging, guiding services, restaurants, and other tourism-related sectors. While the total economic output was lower for warm-water fishing, it still supported steady economic activity on a local level.

These trips, which target species such as walleye, bass, and northern pike, generated more than $170 million in expenditures, with two-thirds of that coming from Montana residents.

“The large economic impact of fishing reflects the high quality of Montana’s fishery resource and related services,” according to BBER Director Jeffrey Michael. “The biggest spending categories are accommodations, outfitters and guides, and restaurants, which support thousands of Montana jobs.”

The survey was conducted from November 2024 to May 2025 and included nearly 1,200 respondents who had purchased Montana fishing licenses.

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Results were modeled to assess jobs, wages, and economic output, painting a clear picture: fishing in Montana is not just recreation but a key contributor to the state’s financial health.