As summer comes to a close, Montana’s waterways are congested with watercraft users of all kinds trying to squeeze in a few more outings before the weather shifts. For boat operators, in particular, it’s a good time for a reminder regarding the “rules of the road.”

It’s important to know navigation rules when meeting another boat or non-motorized boat. Some rivers are narrow enough that adequate space between watercraft is limited, and it can be a source of frustration.

RULES OF THE WATERWAY

These rules, taken from the 2025 boating regulations, are the traffic laws of Montana’s waterways. Like other traffic laws, they are legally binding on vessel operators. The rules dictate who has the right of way when vessels meet in open water and in crowded anchorages.

• Sailboats and manually powered vessels have the right of way over motorized boats in all situations. Motorboats generally should stay clear of sailboats and manually powered vessels and not create a wake that may cause them trouble or swamping.
• When overtaking another vessel, the boat being overtaken (stand-on vessel) has the right of way and must hold course and speed. The passing boat (give-way vessel) is required to stay clear.
• When meeting head on, keep to the right. Vessels going downstream have the right of way over vessels going upstream.
• When two vessels are meeting at a right angle, the vessel that has the other vessel on the starboard side shall keep out of the way and avoid crossing ahead of the other.
• Always operate a vessel at a safe speed so that you are able to stop within the assured visible distance ahead or take proper and effective action to avoid collision.
• Refer to Rules for Operating a Boat in Montana beginning on page 2 of the boating regulations.

The 2025 Boating Regulations can be found on FWP’s website at:

https://fwp.mt.gov/activities/boating/rules-regulations

As recreational use on and near Montana’s waterways continues to grow, different user groups (fishing, floating, tubing, camping, etc.) are encountering each other more frequently. This can lead to conflict between users. Access sites and boat launches are receiving more traffic and at times are congested.

It is crucial for water users to work together and to observe some basic etiquette to make recreating an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Here are some river etiquette refreshers we’d all be wise to follow on our next outing:

Boat Ramps

- Be ready to launch before you get on the ramp.

- Organize gear and load boats before approaching the ramp.

- Be aware of the space available at the launch area and use only what you need.

- Rig and unrig fishing rods away from the ramp.

- Once in the water, clear the launch area as soon as possible.

- When taking out, leave boats off to side of ramp until trailer is ready. Remember, you’re sharing the river with other folks, too.

Small Rivers or Side Channels

Small rivers are exciting to use, but limited visibility (upstream and downstream) and increased public use create new challenges for boaters.

- Be prepared for encounters with other river users.

- Non-motorized watercraft usually have the right-of-way over powerboats.

- Non-motorized watercraft should yield the deeper channel to powerboats, which require a deeper channel to navigate safely.

- Powerboats should use slower speeds on smaller rivers or side channels that have a short viewing distance around winding streambank corners. Slower speeds may help to avoid collisions with other powerboats or floaters.

- Powerboats should use no-wake speeds when passing non-motorized, beached, or drifting watercraft and bank anglers.

- Give anglers wide a berth to avoid their fishing area.

One more important reminder: Always be sure to have the required safety equipment on board, which includes a fire extinguisher, a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejacket for each person, and a throwable device for rescue purposes.