Boating + Fishing

Glacier National Park is home to many options for boating and fishing inside its boundaries. One thing to keep in mind: the lakes and rivers in the Rocky Mountains are glacial- and snow-fed, which makes the water very cold. Always use caution when recreating on waterways in and around the park.

When boating in Glacier National Park, be sure to pick up a free launch permit at permit stations, visitor centers or park headquarters. Boats and hand-propelled watercraft like rafts, kayaks and canoes need to be certified that they are free of aquatic invasive species prior to being launched on the park's lakes. Motorized vessels (excluding jet skis) are allowed on Lake McDonald and Lake Sherburne, as well as St. Mary, Upper Waterton and Lower Two Medicine lakes. More information on boating in Glacier National Park is available here.

Motorboats, stand-up paddleboards, canoes, rowboats and kayaks are available for rent in Glacier National Park from Glacier Park Boat Company.

Fishing is also a popular activity inside the park, with the fishing season typically extending from late May through late November. Fishing licenses are not required when fishing in Glacier National Park, but there are limitations and restrictions on where and when you can cast a line on the park's waters. For more information on fishing inside the park, as well as rules and regulations, visit nps.gov/glac.