Brad Pitt’s iconic fly-fishing scene on the Gallatin River has long fueled Montana’s reputation as a top angling destination. But the precise economic impact of fishing in Montana was unclear until the 2023 Legislature commissioned a study. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks collaborated with the University of Montana Bureau of Business and Economic Research to assess fishing’s economic influence statewide. Their findings reveal fishing is a major economic force, contributing significantly to Montana’s GDP.
The BBER report, published in August, shows anglers added over $910 million to Montana’s GDP in 2024, supporting a total economic output of $1.5 billion. “Fishing is deeply woven into the cultural and economic fabric of Montana,” the study authors noted. Researchers surveyed 1,181 adults who bought a Montana fishing license in 2024, representing a 30% response rate. These results were adjusted using FWP license data and demographic benchmarks.
Fishing enthusiasts were divided into warm-water and cold-water categories, with the study analyzing trip-related expenses among 450,000 license holders. Data from FWP indicates 180,328 resident and 261,734 nonresident fishing licenses issued. Although combination licenses were also sold, the study focused on individual licenses. The survey examined expenditures such as guiding services, equipment rentals, food, fuel, and lodging, evaluating their impact on local economies.
Cold-water fishing, targeting species like trout and salmon, emerged as the primary economic driver. These trips, often more extensive and costly, attracted 86% of nonresidents, compared to 52% of residents. Warm-water fishing, featuring species like walleye and pike, was dominated by local anglers who spent more on fuel and groceries. Average annual expenses were $1,897 for residents and $3,923 for nonresidents. In total, fishing-related spending reached $1.29 billion, supporting 15,978 jobs, generating $427 million in personal income, and contributing $1.5 billion in economic output.
450,000+
Individual Montana fishing licenses purchased by residents and nonresidents.
33.6%
of license holders reported not fishing once during the license year.
41%
of Montana residents who purchased a fishing license did not fish last year.
7
average number of days Montana resident license holders spent fishing last year.
15,978
Jobs in Montana supported by the fishing industry.
$427 million
of personal income driven by coldwater fishing.
$929
average spent by nonresident anglers on fishing guides and outfitters.
$41.9 million
of personal income driven by warm-water fishing.
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