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 Use of Motorized Watercraft

From the Saturday before Memorial Day through the Sunday after Labor Day, there are seasonal boating restrictions on the Wild and Scenic segments of the river. Open Segments • Fort Benton to Pilot Rock (mile 0 to 52) • Deadman’s Rapids to Holmes Council Island (mile 84.5 to 92.5) In these segments, motorized travel upstream and downstream is allowed all year long. Seasonally Restricted Segments • Pilot Rock to Deadman’s Rapids (mile 52 to 84.5) • Holmes Council Island to Fred Robinson Bridge (mile 92.5 to 149) In these segments, upstream travel by motorized watercraft is limited to administrative, emergency or law enforcement watercraft only. Downstream travel by motorized craft is allowed in these segments and is restricted to a no-wake speed. A no-wake speed is defined as a speed where no white water occurs in the path of the vessel or in waves created by the vessel. If you are planning a trip with a motorboat and are unfamiliar with the river, please contact the BLM at (877) 256-3252 or the Chouteau County Sheriff at (406) 622-5451. Depending on water levels and the size of your boat, there are inherent dangers with gravel bars, rocks, and other hazards.

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