The Crow Reservation is located in southern Montana and covers a large area of over 2.2 million acres. Fishing is a popular recreational activity for both tribal members and visitors to the reservation. However, there are specific regulations and requirements for fishing on the Crow Reservation that must be followed. In this article, we will provide an overview of fishing regulations, license requirements, and tips for visiting anglers who wish to fish on the Crow Reservation.
Quick Answers
– A valid fishing license is required to fish on the Crow Reservation. You can purchase a tribal fishing permit or a state license.
– There are limits and regulations on what fish can be caught and how many. These help conserve fish populations.
– Most of the reservation is open to fishing but some areas are closed or restricted. Know before you go.
– Be respectful of tribal lands, culture, and leave no trace while fishing on the reservation.
Overview of Fishing on the Crow Reservation
The Crow Reservation contains thousands of miles of rivers, streams, and lakes that provide excellent fishing opportunities. Some of the most popular fish species found on the reservation include rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, walleye, yellow perch, and burbot. The reservation is divided into three main districts for fisheries management: the Big Horn District, Little Bighorn District, and Big Horn Canyon District.
Fishing is open year-round on the reservation but certain regulations, seasons, and limits apply depending on the district and water body. Both tribal members and non-members can fish after obtaining the proper permits and licenses. The tribe works to sustainably manage the fisheries resources on the reservation through their fish hatchery programs, habitat restoration projects, and enforcement of fishing regulations.
What fish species are present in the reservation waters?
The main fish species found in the streams, rivers, and lakes of the Crow Reservation include:
– Rainbow trout – Found in many rivers and streams across the reservation. Popular for fly fishing.
– Brown trout – Also widespread in reservation waters. Get larger than rainbow trout.
– Brook trout – Native trout species found in colder headwaters.
– Yellow perch – Abundant in Bighorn Lake. Easy to catch from shore.
– Walleye – Prefers cooler waters like Bighorn Lake. Put up a fight when hooked.
– Burbot – Unique cold water cod species found in Bighorn Lake and River.
– Other species like cutthroat trout, bull trout, and mountain whitefish are also present in some waters.
Fishing License Requirements
To legally fish on the Crow Reservation, you must purchase either a tribal fishing permit or a state fishing license depending on your residency:
Crow Tribal Fishing Permits
– Valid for reservation waters only
– Required for all non-tribal members aged 12 and older
– Annual and daily permits available
– Purchase at tribal office in Crow Agency or local vendors
Montana State Fishing Licenses
– Required for non-tribal members if fishing outside reservation
– Valid for all fishing within Montana
– Non-resident, resident, and youth licenses available
– Purchase online or at local vendors
– Recognized on reservation if tribal permit not purchased
Tribal members can fish without a permit but must follow seasons, limits, and regulations. Children under 12 fish for free but other regulations apply. Make sure you have the proper permit or license before fishing on the reservation.
When You Can Fish
Most reservation waters are open year-round to fishing but some seasons, closures, and restrictions apply:
| Season | Open Fishing Dates |
|---|---|
| General Stream Fishing | Open all year |
| Lake Fishing | Open all year |
| Winter Fishing | Rivers open unless posted closed |
| Spawning Closures | Varies by water from March 1 – July 15 |
Some specific waters have additional seasonal closures or restrictions:
– Pryor Creek – Closed March 1 – 3rd Saturday in May
– Sage Creek – Closed December 1 – 3rd Saturday in May
– Willow Creek – Tributaries closed March 1 – June 30
– Bighorn River – Portions closed March 1 – 3rd Saturday in May
Check current regulations before fishing as seasons and closures may change. Pay attention to any posted closure signs or dates.
Fishing Limit Regulations
To maintain healthy fish populations, the Crow Tribe sets daily limits on the number and size of fish that can be harvested. These limits differ between lakes and rivers.
Reservation Rivers & Streams
| Species | Daily Limit | Size Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Trout | 5 fish combined | None |
| Burbot | 5 fish | None |
| Walleye | 10 fish | None |
Bighorn Lake
| Species | Daily Limit | Size Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Trout | 3 fish combined | None |
| Walleye | 10 fish | None under 18″ |
| Burbot | 5 fish | None |
| Yellow Perch | 15 fish | None |
Some additional regulations to note:
– Use of live bait is restricted in certain waters
– Single barbless hooks required in some catch and release areas
– Possession limits are double the daily limits after overnight fishing trips
Know the specific limits and regulations for the waters you want to fish. Limits help maintain healthy future fish numbers.
Where You Can and Cannot Fish
While most reservation waters are open to fishing with a permit, there are some exceptions. The following areas are either closed or have restricted fishing access:
Closed Areas
– Within 100 yards below tribal fish hatchery outflows
– Ceded strip along southern border
– Within 100 feet of any dam or canal headgate
– Posted or fenced off sensitive areas
Restricted Access
– Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument – Permits required
– Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area – Separate permits needed
– Pryor Mountains – Foot access only beyond Sage Creek
Additionally, all private waters and lands require landowner permission for access. Know before you go and pay attention to any access signs or restrictions.
Tips for Responsible Fishing
When fishing on the Crow Reservation, be sure to follow these guidelines to be a respectful angler:
– Obtain proper fishing permits and licenses
– Know and follow all seasons, limits, and regulations
– Be aware of reservation border crossing requirements
– Practice leave no trace ethics when camping and cleaning fish
– Avoid trespassing on private lands or closed areas
– Learn about and appreciate Crow history and culture
– Prevent aquatic invasive species by cleaning gear and equipment
Following these tips will ensure the waters and fisheries of the Crow Reservation remain healthy while also protecting tribal lands and cultural resources. Contact the tribe’s Fish and Game Department with any questions.
Conclusion
The Crow Reservation provides excellent fishing opportunities with its abundance of rivers, streams, and lakes. Anglers must obtain the proper tribal permits or state licenses, adhere to seasons and limits, and be aware of restrictions and closed areas. Responsible fishing helps sustain fish populations while also respecting tribal lands. With the right knowledge and preparation, visitors can enjoy the reservation’s world-class fishing while also supporting conservation efforts.
