VOL. 14 · NO. 25 June 18, 2026 · Bozeman, MT LIVE · 6 RIVERS TRACKED · TOURNAMENTS THIS WEEK
THE WIRE
FISHINGExperience Montana’s Free Fishing Days This Father’s DayJun 17 FISHINGMastering Fly Selection: The Rock Method for Trout FishingJun 17 HUNTINGCan Arkansas Hunters Really Prepare for a Montana Spring Bear Hunt? Deadhaul…Jun 17 CONSERVATIONBeavers Rewilded 12,000 Montana Wetland Acres Better Than Anyone ExpectedJun 17 HUNTINGWildlife Policy Battle: Sportsmen Defend Hunting TraditionsJun 17
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Montana Boat Inspection Stations Reopen March 7: Key Watercraft Inspection Dates, Locations, and AIS Reports

Montana watercraft inspection stations reopen March 7 in Dillon, Ravalli, and Anaconda as Fish, Wildlife & Parks highlights another year of keeping invasive mussels out of state waters. New AIS reports underscore strong prevention statewide—and a growing risk from boats returning from out-of-state waters.

Montana just pulled off another big win, according to a recent press release — and yes, it is already time to start thinking about boat inspections again. As watercraft inspection stations reopen March 7 in Dillon, Ravalli, and Anaconda, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is celebrating another year keeping invasive mussels out of state waters.

Newly released AIS reports highlight strong prevention efforts statewide, but also point to a growing risk: boats returning from out-of-state waters. With mussel infestations creeping closer to Montana’s borders, FWP officials say inspections remain the front line in protecting our lakes and rivers — and remind boaters that invasive species are preventable when everyone does their part.

To check out the 2025 Annual AIS Early Detection, Monitoring, and Control Annual Report and the AIS Prevention Report, go to fwp.mt.gov/conservation/aquatic-invasive-species/reports.


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