While floating the Big Hole River last weekend, my crewmate and I were a little surprised about the number of other boaters with whom we had to share the boat ramp, parking lot and river. They all had the same plan as us – float the Big Hole during the salmonfly hatch. It could have been a disaster, but it was not at all. Everyone practiced good boat etiquette and enjoyed the beautiful scenery and fishing opportunity.
Floating season is in full swing. Keep these tips in mind to make your float trip enjoyable and safe for you and for your fellow floaters.
At the boat ramp
Exercise patience, communication and friendliness.
Prepare your boat and gear away from the ramp area until you are ready to launch your boat.
Park politely in areas that do not damage vegetation, block other vehicles or create safety hazards.
Keep in mind that you are an important part of the collective experience.
Show courtesy and respect to those around you, including anglers and tubers.
Communicate with others on the river if you intend to pass them.
Minimize any loud noise or music that may disturb the peaceful surroundings.
Refrain from engaging in any obnoxious or disruptive behavior that could spoil the experience for others.
Be mindful that hazards and obstacles are constantly changing.
View wildlife from a distance and remain quiet.
Practice good catch-and-release techniques and observe harvest limits.
Pack out everything you bring with you.
Leave the areas you visit better than you found them.
This content is sourced from
Montana Fish Wildlife parks
. It reflects the author's views and has not been edited by our newsroom. It may have been generated using AI assistance.
