This year, 5,823 people applied for a permit to float the popular central Montana river, and 890 received the permit they sought. That’s a 15 percent success rate. Total applications this year broke last year’s record of 5,012. Of this year’s applicants, 4,870 were Montana residents; 953 were nonresidents.
To see if you were one of the chosen few, you can sit by your mailbox or check your Drawing Status online.
Beginning March 19, the Smith River reservation line, (406) 454-5861, will be in operation Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon, for those who are looking to pick up remaining or cancelled launch dates or to cancel a launch date.
Permit Application— The deadline for permit applications to float the Smith River State Park & River Corridor in 2008 has ended. Applications were accepted from January 2 through February 15, 2008.
Applicants have the ability to apply electronically, by mail or in person at any FWP Regional office. To apply electronically, the application can be submitted online through FWP's automated licensing system. To apply by mail, simply print the Application and Instructions (PDF formant) below, fill out and mail to the address listed on the application. Copies of the Application and Instructions are also available at all FWP Regional offices. To apply in person, simply come into any FWP Regional office.
Drawing Procedure—The drawing for private launches is conducted in late February. Results are mailed in early March.
Notification—Successful applicants receive a permit with an informational floater packet. Unsuccessful applicants receive a refund (or post card if you chose to donate your fee to the Corridor Enhancement Account). Please contact the FWP Smith River Program at (406) 454-5861 if you do not receive one of these notifications in the mail by the end of March. Results of the drawing are available now on the FWP website.
