Donate a boat in Montana
Montana boating spans Flathead Lake, Canyon Ferry near Helena, Fort Peck in the east, and drift boats on the Missouri, Madison, and Yellowstone rivers.
Montana rules for a boat donation
Titles and registration
Montana boat titles and registrations are handled through county treasurers under the Motor Vehicle Division. Which applies depends on the boat; we confirm with you.
Aquatic invasive species
Montana requires AIS inspections for launching.
Trailers
Trailers are handled through county treasurers as vehicles.
Lost title or registration
The owner on record can usually get a duplicate from Montana Motor Vehicle Division. If the boat was never retitled after a sale, or the owner has passed away, tell us and we will point you to the right forms.
Coast Guard documented vessels
Documented boats transfer through the National Vessel Documentation Center with a bill of sale, not a Montana title. Some documented boats are also registered with the state for use here.
What Montana boat owners call us about
Drift boats
Drift boats from guides and anglers who have hung it up.
Flathead cabins
Boats left at lake cabins.
Long winters
Owners paying for storage most of the year.
Boats we pick up in Montana
Fishing boats Drift boats and fishing boats.
Motorboats Runabouts and pontoons on Flathead.
Sailboats Sailboats on Flathead Lake.
We also pick up every other kind of boat in Montana. The types above are just the ones we see most here.
Boating in Montana: seasons and storage
The season
The season is short, June through September.
Storage and carrying costs
Most boats spend eight months stored. Every month a boat sits unused, those costs keep adding up. Estimate yours.
A typical Montana donation
A drift boat or fishing boat on a trailer. We accept every other kind of boat here too.
Montana by region
Pickup works the same across the state. These are the waters we hear about most.
Montana boat donation questions
Do you take drift boats?
Yes, with a trailer.
Can you pick up in rural Montana?
Yes; scheduling may take longer.
Where do I replace a lost Montana title?
Your county treasurer.
When is the best time of year to donate a boat in Montana?
Early September, before snow reaches the mountain roads. That said, you can donate any time of year.
State rules change. We confirm current requirements when we handle your paperwork. We do not provide tax or legal advice.
Start your Montana boat donation
Takes about three minutes. Your best guesses are fine, or call (888) 228-7320.
Free pickup by our trusted transport team · We handle title transfer and tax paperwork · No cost to you
OTHER STATES IN THE MOUNTAIN WEST AND SOUTHWEST