Lottery for Smith River float permits opens
Permit applications to float central Montana's Smith River are now being accepted, and will continue to be accepted through Feb. 15. The permit drawing will be held on Feb. 21.
Known for its "spectacular scenery, remote location and excellent trout fishing," the Smith River is one of Montana's most sought-after outdoor recreation experiences.
Because of its popularity, permits are required to float the 59-mile section of the Smith River between Camp Baker near White Sulphur Springs and the Eden Bridge south of Ulm. The permits are issued each year through a lottery. Parties of up to 15 people can float with one permit.
Applications must be submitted, or postmarked by Feb 15. Applicants pay a $15 non-refundable permit application fee. Permit lottery results will be available online at stateparks.mt.gov.
Applicants must be at least 12 years old at the time they submit their permit application. There is no age restriction to participate on a Smith River float trip.
Applicants can apply for a Smith River float permit online through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Online Licensing System. Successful Smith River applicants will be notified via email shortly after the lottery drawing is conducted on Feb. 21.
Links within the notification email to successful applicants will allow them to download and print their float permit, as well as access vital and detailed information regarding their upcoming Smith River float. Lottery results will also be available online at stateparks.mt.gov.
Those who receive a permit will be contacted by phone two days prior to their scheduled launch date to complete the registration process, which includes declaring boat camps and paying the appropriate float fees.
In addition to the permit lottery, the public may purchase as many $5 Super Permit chances as they wish. Montana State Parks issues one Super Permit each year through a separate lottery. The recipient of the Super Permit will be allowed to launch on any date of their choosing for that float season.
The opportunity to purchase chances for the Smith River Super Permit will be available through March 23. The Super Permit drawing will take place on March 29. Super Permit chances may be purchased online through FWP’s Online Licensing System.
This article originally appeared on Great Falls Tribune: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks opens lottery to float Smith River
