Is It Legal?

454

Member
Joined
Jan 9, 2009
Messages
122
Reaction score
2
Points
18
Location
Missoula, Montana
Country
United States
Display Name
Colt
Is legal to wild collect salamanders in Montana? I want to raise a tiger salamander larvae and people on caudata said it's best to collect from the wild so you don't contribute to the pet trade. I have a 2009 fishing license if that helps too. I also realize I can't collect Dicamptodon, and coer d' Alene salamanders because they are species of concern. Just interested in long-toeds, and tigers.

Thanks
 
You would have to check your local laws
 
yeah I have looked at both those links, and I know I cant collect Dicamptodon, and Coeur d' Alene salamanders. Just looking for tigers and long-toed salamanders. If it's not a species of concern can you collect them with a fishing license?
 
I believe you should be able to. You can always contact the DNR by phone or e-mail to double check.
 
I would caution BC not to trust hearsay from a forum. You really need to contact your DNR and ask. The question isn't addressed on their website, and no one has given you a solid answer.
 
I would caution BC not to trust hearsay from a forum. You really need to contact your DNR and ask. The question isn't addressed on their website, and no one has given you a solid answer.

I really need to start wording my posts a bit more carefully. I'm sorry if I gave the idea that he could collect those species. I said I believe he should be able too because in my state if it's not a species of concern, it is legal to collect them if you have the proper fishing license. I also recommended he double check by sending an e-mail or calling.
I have to admit I am spoiled because the DNR website for my state clearly states which species CANNOT be collected. I wish all DNR websites were that thorough.
 
In a number of states, you need a fishing license to collect. The DNR office is usually pretty helpful.
 
Some states also require special permits in addition to a fishing liscense. DNR or Fish and Game will always provide the correct information if you ask. Often e-mail will not suffice. It is best to call or use snail mail.
 
Hello everyone, I just checked my email and my local DNR replied to my question. I'll post what they said. By the way can someone summerize it for me? I didn't really get it.

Here is what they said



It is illegal to collect amphibians for commercial purposes in the state of Montana and collecting for scientific research must be permitted. Collecting of salamanders outside of these two categories is unregulated. The Coeur d'Alene and Idaho Giant Salamander are both listed as species of concern. We certainly discourage collection of any species in great number and have the authority to create commission rule to regulate take if necessary.
 
It is illegal to collect amphibians for commercial purposes in the state of Montana and collecting for scientific research must be permitted. Collecting of salamanders outside of these two categories is unregulated. The Coeur d'Alene and Idaho Giant Salamander are both listed as species of concern. We certainly discourage collection of any species in great number and have the authority to create commission rule to regulate take if necessary.

Basically, you don't need a fishing license. There are no rules to worry about as long as you're not doing research on or selling the animals. If you start taking too many then they reserve the right to stop you.
 
That is, unless you're collecting the animals specifically to sell. Then you'd be using them 'for commercial purposes'. So just take as many as you need for your own collection, and enjoy the intrinsic beauty of the rest :)
 
I'm glad DNR responded promptly, but I would still find the actual regulation or statute. A lot of state DNR personnel are not well versed in herp regs, and may give you slightly incorrect guidance or personal opinion. Note their comment about collecting in numbers.
 
  • Like
Reactions: 454
General chit-chat
Help Users
  • No one is chatting at the moment.
    There are no messages in the chat. Be the first one to say Hi!
    Back
    Top