If you've applied for a Smith River Permit, the moment you've been waiting for has arrived!

The permit lottery results are now available for viewing on FWP’s website.

Successful applicants will also receive notification via email.

About Smith River Permits

Permits are a prerequisite for floating the renowned 59-mile stretch of the Smith River, famed for its breathtaking scenery, remote location, and outstanding trout fishing opportunities.

Lottery Statistics

This year, the number of applications decreased slightly, with 12,452 applicants compared to 14,518 in 2023.

Of these, 978 float permits were awarded for launch dates from April 1 to August 15.

Montana residents secured 867 float permits, while nonresidents obtained 111.

The Smith River is typically navigable from mid-April to mid-July, with average winter snowpack and spring-summer precipitation.

Super Permit Opportunities

For those who were unsuccessful in the regular permit drawing, there's still a chance to secure a Smith River Super Permit until March 22.

These chances are available for $5 each and offer the opportunity for one lucky winner to launch on their chosen date.

Chances can be purchased online through FWP’s website, with the Super Permit drawing scheduled for March 26.

Important Reminders for Floaters

This year, there are several important updates and reminders for floaters:

• Pit Toilets: Pit toilets will not be provided in 2024, necessitating floaters to pack out human waste.
• Float Registration: Floaters must register via phone two days before their launch date. Additionally, river rangers will assign a one-hour time interval for each float group to approach the boat ramp for launch.
• Camp Baker: Camp Baker is designated as a day-use-only site, with no overnight camping permitted except from September 1 through November 30.

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