Boat Launches in Montana

Boat launch access

Launching a boat in Montana

Boating Hubs maps 82 boat launches in Montana across 26 named waters. 81 are public access, and 1 are semi-private, so access may be limited to residents, members or permit holders. Every launch on this page carries its coordinates, so you can route to the ramp rather than to the lake.

Busiest waters in Montana

• Flathead Lake (23)
• Missouri River, Canyon Ferry Reservoir (14)
• Missouri River (8)
• Missouri River - Fort Peck Lake (6)
• Flathead River (5)
• Little Bitterroot Lake (3)
• McGregor Lake (2)
• Swan Lake (2)
• Whitefish Lake (2)
• Ashley Lake (1)
• Beaver Lake (1)
• Blanchard Lake (1)

Common questions about Montana boat launches

How many public boat launches are there in Montana?

Boating Hubs maps 82 boat launches in Montana across 26 named waters. 81 are public access and 1 are semi-private, meaning access may be limited to residents, members or permit holders.

Which waters in Montana have the most boat launches?

By mapped launch count: Flathead Lake (23), Missouri River, Canyon Ferry Reservoir (14), Missouri River (8), Missouri River - Fort Peck Lake (6) and Flathead River (5). Counts are the number of separate ramps and hand launches on each water, not the number of lanes.

Is there a fee to use boat launches in Montana?

Launch fees are set by whoever manages the ramp, and Boating Hubs does not hold fee data for Montana yet, so check the managing agency or marina before you tow. Ramps marked semi-private may also require a permit or membership.