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FWP offers tips about new Sha-Ron fishing access parking lot and amenities

Jul 6, 2023 8:31 AM

EAST MISSOULA – A new parking lot opened last month at Sha-Ron Fishing Access Site (FAS), located along the Clark Fork River in East Missoula, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks recreation staff are sharing a few tips for those that plan to check out the new space.

“The lot opened just in time for the busy summer season, and we’re excited to see people out there already,” said Loren Flynn, FWP regional recreation manager.  “As the floating season continues to pick up pace, we wanted to share a few tips about what to expect.”

Sha-Ron FAS visitor tips:

  • The new parking area is located just upstream from the existing Sha-Ron FAS, and is connected by a paved, accessible path.
  • The lot can hold 68 vehicles but no trailers.  The original parking lot accommodates trailers and is where the boat ramp is located.
  • The site is day use only (sunrise to sunset).
  • Please respect neighboring private land and stay within the fence or on the paved trail.
  • Parking is no longer allowed along Highway 200.  Please use one of the parking lots or take a shuttle to the site.
  • There is a bus stop at Sha-Ron that is used by Mountain Line and the University of Montana U-Dash river shuttles. Shuttles are free, and floaters can find out more information through Mountain Line and U-Dash.
  • The expansion included the addition of a portable toilet adjacent to the new parking lot.
  • There are no trash facilities, so please plan to pack in, pack out.
  • On an extra busy day, if parking is not available in the lot, there is plenty of overflow parking available at the Confluence Area of Milltown State Park, a few miles upstream.
     

FWP also reminds visitors that anyone using the Sha-Ron facilities must have a Montana Conservation License.  As of July 1, 2023, everyone 12 and older needs a Montana Conservation License to access most state lands. This includes all types of recreation—launching watercraft, hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, etc.  Find out more: fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/conservation-license.

The Sha-Ron access sites sees a lot of traffic from those floating the Clark Fork River just upstream of Missoula, and the popularity has increased in recent years.  The new parking lot helps to accommodate that increased use.  Although FWP manages the site, its creation was the result of a collaboration between Missoula County, the Montana Department of Transportation, the Missoula Metropolitan Planning Organization, Mountain Line, the Clark Fork Coalition, JAG Construction, FWP and local community councils and residents.

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