Fishing License Yellowstone Park: Complete Guide for 2025

Yellowstone National Park offers some of the most pristine and diverse fishing opportunities in the United States. As we enter 2025, anglers need to be aware of the latest regulations, fees, and conservation efforts. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fishing licenses in Yellowstone for the current year.

What’s New for Yellowstone Fishing in 2025?

The most significant change for anglers in 2025 is the continuation of year-round fishing access on specific stretches of two rivers, which was introduced in late 2024:

1. Madison River: From the Montana-Wyoming border to the park boundary near Yellowstone’s west entrance in West Yellowstone.
2. Gardner River: From Osprey Falls downstream to where the river meets the Yellowstone River near Gardiner.

This policy allows fishing enthusiasts to enjoy these areas throughout the year, expanding opportunities beyond the traditional season. The rest of the park’s waters maintain the standard fishing season from Memorial Day weekend through October 31.

Do You Need a Fishing License for Yellowstone?

Yes, you need a Yellowstone National Park fishing permit to fish within the park boundaries. It’s crucial to understand that:

• State fishing licenses are not valid or required in Yellowstone.
• The Yellowstone fishing permit is separate from state licenses and only valid within the park.

For fishing outside the park in Montana, Wyoming, or Idaho, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate state license. You can find more information on state licenses here:

• Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
• Wyoming Game and Fish Department
• Idaho Fish and Game

Yellowstone Fishing Permit Costs for 2025

For the 2025 season, Yellowstone National Park has maintained its fishing permit fees from the previous year. The current rates are:

Permit Type	Cost
3-day permit	$40
7-day permit	$55
Annual permit	$75

These fees represent a significant increase from pre-2021 rates, with the park doubling the cost to support conservation efforts and invasive species control.

Who Needs a Yellowstone Fishing Permit?

• Anglers 16 years of age and older must purchase a valid Yellowstone National Park fishing permit.
• Children 15 years old and younger can fish for free under two conditions:

1. They fish under the direct supervision of an adult who has a valid park fishing permit.
2. They obtain a free permit signed by a responsible adult, allowing them to fish without direct supervision.

Where and How to Buy a Yellowstone Fishing Permit

You have several options for purchasing your Yellowstone fishing permit:

1. Online: Through Recreation.gov (recommended for convenience)
2. In-park locations:

• Visitor centers
• Ranger stations
• Yellowstone General Stores

1. Local businesses: Many shops in gateway communities near park entrances sell permits

For the most up-to-date information on permit sales locations, visit the Yellowstone National Park official website.

Yellowstone Fishing Seasons for 2025

The 2025 fishing seasons in Yellowstone National Park are as follows:

• Standard fishing areas: May 24 – October 31, 2025
• Year-round fishing areas (Madison and Gardner Rivers): January 1 – December 31, 2025

Note: The 2025 annual fishing permit is valid for the entire calendar year, from January 1 through December 31, 2025.

Yellowstone Fishing Regulations: What You Need to Know

General Regulations

1. Artificial lures only: Only lead-free artificial lures or flies may be used.
2. Barbless hooks: All hooks must be barbless or have the barbs pinched down.
3. Catch and release: All native fish (cutthroat trout, Arctic grayling, and mountain whitefish) must be released unharmed.
4. Non-native fish: There’s no possession limit for non-native fish, including brown, brook, rainbow, and lake trout.

Special Regulations

1. Fly fishing only rivers: The Firehole, Madison, and Gibbon River below Gibbon Falls are restricted to fly fishing only.
2. Bridge and boat dock restrictions: No fishing is allowed from bridges or boat docks, including Fishing Bridge.
3. Felt-soled footwear ban: To prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, felt-soled waders are prohibited in the park.

For a complete list of regulations, consult the Yellowstone Fishing Regulations on the official park website.

Conservation Efforts and the Importance of Your Permit

The increased permit fees directly support crucial conservation initiatives in Yellowstone:

1. Native fish preservation: Efforts focus on protecting and restoring populations of native cutthroat trout, Arctic grayling, and mountain whitefish.
2. Invasive species control: A significant portion of the fees goes towards managing non-native species, particularly the lake trout in Yellowstone Lake.
3. Habitat protection: Funds contribute to maintaining and improving the park’s aquatic ecosystems.

By purchasing a permit, you’re actively contributing to the preservation of Yellowstone’s unique aquatic environment for future generations.

The Native Fish Conservation Program

Yellowstone’s Native Fish Conservation Program, led by Todd Koel, plays a crucial role in maintaining the park’s aquatic ecosystem. The program focuses on:

• Removing invasive lake trout from Yellowstone Lake
• Restoring native Yellowstone cutthroat trout populations
• Monitoring and protecting other native fish species

For more information on this vital program, visit the Yellowstone Forever Native Fish Conservation page.

Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip in Yellowstone

1. Plan ahead: Purchase your permit online before your trip to save time.
2. Know the regulations: Familiarize yourself with the specific rules for the areas you plan to fish.
3. Practice catch and release techniques: Learn how to properly handle and release fish to ensure their survival.
4. Be bear aware: Always carry bear spray and know how to use it when fishing in bear country.
5. Check for closures: Some areas may be temporarily closed due to wildlife activity or conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Fishing in Yellowstone National Park offers a unique and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. By obtaining the proper permit and following the park’s regulations, you’re not only ensuring a legal fishing experience but also contributing to the preservation of this incredible ecosystem. Whether you’re casting a line in the new year-round fishing areas or exploring the park’s many other fishing spots, remember that your actions play a crucial role in maintaining Yellowstone’s natural beauty for generations to come.

For the most up-to-date information on fishing in Yellowstone, always check the official Yellowstone National Park website before your visit.