Believe it or not, Montana was one of the first states to legalize sports betting after the federal ban on it was lifted in 2018. However, weâd stop short of saying itâs a âbettor-friendlyâ state. Montana has put some serious restrictions on its legalized betting market â and many bettors will be left hanging.
For these reasons, we strongly recommend bettors just do their gambling offshore when in Montana. Itâs the perfect alternative to whatâs currently allowed and best of all, itâs incredibly easy to set up. Youâre going to want to keep reading this page for an in-depth guide to betting in Montana!
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Quick Montana Facts
State | Montana |
---|---|
âïž sports betting laws | â Restricted |
đ« Population | 1 million |
đ¶ Minimum Gambling | N/A |
đïž Retail Sports Betting | â Available |
đ Online Sports Betting | âNot Available |
đ± Mobile Sports Betting | âNot Available |
đ Online Horse Betting | âNot Available |
đ DFS | â Available |
Is Sports Betting Legal In Montana?
It is. It was made legal in April 2019 with the passage of HB 725. However, donât think this is a free market where there is multiple operators. No, no, not at all. Thereâs a monopoly on the system, as any and all sports betting must go through the Montana Lottery. So there are no traditional sportsbooks, only lottery retailers where bets can be made in person.
The lottery does have an online app of sorts called Sports Bet Montana. But hereâs the thing: you can do everything on the app besides make actual bets â unless youâre in an authorized location (near a lottery ticket kiosk). So no at-home betting or anything like that. This rule really takes the wind out of the sails of betting in Montana, if weâre being honest.
Which again, is why we urge bettors to âtake their talentsâ offshore instead. Because these sites arenât located in the United States, they are free of US regulations or any state like Montana. So not only do offshore betting sites work perfectly fine, but even better in most cases as weâre about to explain in this article.
Latest Montana Legal Betting Updates
Sep 20, 2024 08:41 AM
Montana sports betting lobbyists hoped we'd see some positive change by summer. But, with little movement from legislators, hopes of an amendment are dwindling.
Montana Sports Betting Timeline
Best Sportsbooks In Each Category In Montana
Best overall | Name of Bookie |
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Best bonuses | |
Most unique bonuses | |
Top VIP program | |
Best reputation | |
Best sportsbook | |
Best casino | |
Best mobile app | |
Best for live betting | |
Best for new players | |
Best up-and-coming sportsbook |
Top 7 Montana Sports Betting Sites
Offshore sportsbook options are plenty in Montana. However, if we could only suggest seven to use inside the state, it would undoubtedly be these ones:
- BetUS - The biggest bonuses in the business and by a wide margin.
- Bovada - Trustworthy brand and reliable mobile betting experience.
- BetOnline -Â Competitive odds and early line releases.
- XBet -Â Excellent mobile app for on-the-go betting.
- BetNow -Â Generous bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
- MyBookie -Â Elite rewards program for serious players.
- Everygame -Â Long-standing reputation and ton of live betting opportunities.
#1 BetUS
BetUS Montana Pros & Cons
- Huge free-play deals
- Huge betting selection
- High rollover requirement
- Free play only lasts 7 days
Like free betting? Of course, you do. We mean, who doesnât want free money to throw on sports bets? Well, this is why we recommend BetUS first for Montana bettors. They simply do promotional bonuses better than anyone else in the business.
Here are some examples. Weâll start with the BetUS welcome bonus. New users can claim up to $3,125 in free play off this deal. Want to know what the industry norm is? More like $1000 so BetUS is blowing that out of the water and then some.
Here's another eye-popping example: the $6,000 referral bonus. Yes, you read that right â six grand for bringing your friends or family on board to BetUS. In terms of dollar value, this is the highest weâve seen on BetUS yet. Itâs a stunning number and thereâs even a prize raffle on top of this. The raffle gives out free game tickets and brand new tech products, as an example.
But itâs not just about the promotions at this site. No, no, no BetUS backs up its offers with an extensive range of betting options too. Whether you're into sports betting or casino games, thereâs something for everyone, making all that free play go a long way.
All this adds up to make BetUS a killer option for Montana bettors. If you value free play â which helps derisk your bets â thereâs no better option than BetUS.
Our rating: âââââ
#2 Bovada
Bovada Montana Pros & Cons
- Trustworthy brand
- Simple and easy to use
- Bonuses are cheap
- Dated-looking platform
When you hear "offshore betting," it might set off a few alarm bells. We get it â thereâs something about the word "offshore" that feels like uncharted waters, especially in a place like Montana where handshake deals are still prevalent. But letâs put those concerns to rest because Bovada is as trusted as can be in this industry.
For one, Bovada is far from a newcomer. Theyâve been around since the early 2010s, which is even before DraftKings and FanDuel. Since then, Bovada has amassed one of the largest betting user bases in the country. Ask yourself â would so many people stick around if Bovada wasnât the real deal? Of course, not!
What really sets Bovada apart, especially for Montanans, is its no-nonsense approach. The platform is as straightforward as they come, with a layout that makes it easy to find your way around, place bets, and get your money in without a hitch. If youâre new to the world of online betting or just want a clean, reliable experience, Bovada is like the trusty old truck in your driveway â nothing fancy, but always gets the job done. Always!
For Montana bettors who appreciate simplicity and dependability with plenty of betting options, Bovada fits the bill. Unlike Sports Bet Montana, this platform makes betting as easy as can be.
Our rating: âââââ
#3 BetOnline
BetOnline Montana Pros & Cons
- Near endless sports bets on the menu
- Well-priced betting odds
- Promos could be a lot better
If you're after a sportsbook with more sports agambling options than you can ever imagine, BetOnline is your go-to spot. While others are still catching up, BetOnline is setting the pace when it comes to betting variety. Itâs impressive compared to competing sportsbooks.
Sure, youâll find staples like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, but thatâs just the tip of the iceberg. You can also dive into niche sports like cricket, rugby, and even ping pong. We have no idea if those sports have any following in Montana, but the main thing weâre trying to get across is BetOnline leaves no stone unturned with its betting menu. Any and all sports betting can be done at Bovada.
Thatâs great and all, but hereâs another biggie: BetOnlineâs well-priced lines. These are right on the mark, similar to what you see in Las Vegas casinos. You wonât ever feel like theyâre squeezing you with inflated odds. Itâs just straight-up, competitive pricing that bettors should always get.
Montana bettors will also appreciate how quick BetOnline is at getting new lines up. As soon as the final whistle blows, the next gameâs lines are seemingly already up. Itâs a huge advantage if you like getting your bets in early and staying ahead of the crowd.
The last thing weâll say is BetOnline is that it's truly an all-in-one betting destination. No need to use multiple betting apps because BetOnline can cover it all.
Our rating: âââââ
#4 XBet
XBet Montana Pros & Cons
- Top notch mobile app
- Great in-play betting feature
- Contests and bonuses are too plain
Montanaâs famous Winter weather can make in-person betting laws feel like a real drag when a blizzard sweeps by. Welp, XBet comes to the rescue, delivering one of the best mobile betting experiences around. Forget braving the Winter storm to place bet, just count on XBet anytime and anywhere.
XBetâs mobile platform is truly elite. The first thing youâll notice is the sleek look. Unlike competing apps which look outdated, XBet is modern and heck, even forward-looking. Itâs not just looks though because the app also performs well too.
The appâs clean and user-friendly design lends itself to easy-to-make wagering. No endless scrolling, no confusing menus â just a seamless experience that lets you get straight to the action. Not only that, but the app just works super fast. Where some apps buckle under pressure, especially during live betting, XBet rarely misses a beat. Crashes or lags are hard to come by.
Another thing we love about XBetâs app is how accessible it is. There are no downloads needed from the Apple or Google Play Stores. You can jump right into the action straight from your mobile browser. Whether youâve got a smartphone or tablet, the platform scales perfectly to your device, offering a hassle-free experience every time.
Weâve tried out hundreds of betting apps, and weâre telling you, XBet is among the very best at on-the-go gambling. With its sleek design and top-tier performance, itâs a platform built to keep up with the fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle that suits Montana bettors perfectly.
Our score: âââââ
#5 BetNow
BetNow Montana Pros & Cons
- Multiple bonuses to pick from
- Only sportsbook rebate program around
- Casino could have more games
In an industry full of copycats, BetNow is carving out its own lane. Itâs really, really tough to stand out in the crowded world of online gambling, but BetNow manages to do just that.
What sets BetNow apart from the pack? Itâs their approach to promotions. They give more bonus variety than just about any competitor. We're talking four different welcome bonuses, three reload deals, and three separate rebate programs. Plus, they have other smaller bonuses too.
Again, this is not the norm. Most betting sites stick with one standard bonus and call it a day. BetNow breaks that mold, giving bettors options that cater to different styles and preferences. Whether you're a newbie just getting your feet wet or a seasoned pro looking for an edge, BetNowâs flexible promotions let you find the right deal for your style.
We have to mention one of those promotions specifically though, and thatâs BetNowâs sportsbook rebate program. The site is giving back 2 percent on net losses in the sportsbook. This is completely unheard of. Seriously, we donât know another platform that offers a sportsbook rebate.
That deal just goes to show you how different BetNow really is. Weâre definitely for it, and we think Montana bettors â who act and think in their own way too â will appreciate BetNowâs approach.
Our Rating: ââââ
#6 MyBookie
MyBookie Montana Pros & Cons
- All-in-one betting destination
- Awesome rewards program perks
- Rewards program is invite only
If youâre after a betting platform thatâs got it all, MyBookie is hard to top. This isnât a one-trick pony, thatâs for sure. Sports, casino, horse racing, poker â whatever youâre into, MyBookie has you covered.
Letâs first focus on the crown jewel, the sportsbook. With a massive selection of sports, leagues, and bet types, you're bound to find exactly what youâre looking for. But the appeal of MyBookie goes well beyond just sports betting.
Their casino is also loaded with hundreds of games. Most of these are slot machines, but thereâs also an abundance of table games too. Speaking of which, if poker is more your speed, their dedicated poker room is always buzzing with action. The poker room is frequented by players all over the world.
All of these betting platforms are tired to together through MyBookieâs VIP rewards program. Unlike many platforms that dangle a one-time bonus, MyBookie rewards you consistently. Every single bet you place, whether itâs on sports, casino games, or poker, racks up reward points. And the more you play, the more you earn. No limits, no caps â the rewards just keep stacking up.
We only recommend MyBookie to bettors who are in it for the long haul. Thatâs the only way youâll get mileage out of the VIP rewards program. Miles and miles of it if youâre serious and consistent.
Our Rating: ââââ
#7 Everygame
Everygame Montana Pros & Cons
- Top-notch live betting system
- Huge selection of soccer bets
- Bonuses pay peanuts
- Really old-looking platform
Everygame brings a European touch to the betting scene that stands out from the usual U.S.-based bookmakers. With roots that stretch back decades (they were formerly known as Interrops), Everygame isnât just riding the wave of modern sports betting â they helped build the damn thing too.
One immediate perk about betting at Everygame is its live betting experience. Their in-play feature is smooth and responsive, handling the pressure of real-time odds with ease. You canât always say this about competitors, which can error out trying to keep up with real-time action.
Live bets can be found across NFL, NBA, MLB, or European soccer. Every major matchup is covered in these big leagues or sports. You probably wonât get in-play betting on more obscure sports, but thatâs pretty much the case across the board, not just here.
For soccer fans, though, Everygame is really where itâs at. As we said, Everygame has a European background so naturally, they strongly support the sport they call football. From the Premier League to La Liga to international tournaments like the World Cup, itâs all there for the taking at Everygame.
Our score: ââââ
Where Are Sportsbooks Like Fanduel, DraftKings, Ceasars?
Donât expect to find big-name sportsbooks in Montana. As we mentioned before, only Sports Bet Montana can offer betting in the state â and only at their kiosks. Until this changes, the big operators will be prohibited from doing business in the state. And hereâs the thing: it looks like Montana is staying firm with its single-operator approach. There seems to be zero appetite to change things.
So for now, and likely for the foreseeable future, Montanans have two main options: use one of those damn kiosks to place your bets in person or turn to offshore sportsbooks. Weâre certainly in favor of the latter option. If you need a few more reasons to go offshore, weâll provide them in the next section.
Latest Montana Betting News
Betting On Politics, Esports, Entertainment In Montana
Letâs say you do opt to bet on Montana Sports Bet and at those kiosks. There are some markets you wonât be able to find. Fun markets like whoâs winning the U.S. presidential election or award winners at the Oscars or WWE results. These are off limits to Montana bettors because state regulators donât count them as real sports.
You know who doesnât have these restrictions? You guessed it, offshore betting sites! Only those bookmakers freely offer betting on non-sport categories â not only in Montana, but the whole country. All other states police these bets the same way as Montana so think of offshore platforms as get out of jail cards.
Betting Apps In Montana
We canât express our distaste enough for Montanaâs lack of mobile betting apps â true ones that actually allow you to wager. Who has the time and gas money to drive to these kiosks all the time? We donât and youâre probably the same!
This makes offshore betting apps even more appealing since they offer mobile counterparts. Now if youâre wondering how these mobile betting apps work in Montana, weâve got all the info you need. Weâve dedicated an entire guide to help you understand it so you can save time and money from driving everywhere to wager.
Start Betting In Montana Today â Our Guides
While betting should always be about entertainment first (more on that later), thereâs no harm in wanting to make some cash while youâre at it. Letâs be honest â random guesses arenât going to cut it if youâre aiming to make a profit. Not when these bookies are using advanced computer models to create odds. So if you want to actually win more often than not, youâll have to sharpen your betting skills. Hereâs where to start:
- Top Betting Tips â want to make money wagering? Read this!
- Best Sports Betting Strategies â the above article is a college 101 class to this one, which take your betting to the next level!
- How Do Odds Work â self-explanatory here, learn everything there is to know about understanding betting odds.
- Types of Sports Bets â a complete primer to the various types of sports betting forms.
- Betting Odds Calculator â calculate how much money a bet or parlay pays out
Payment Methods Available For Montana Sportsbooks
Donât think for a second that going offshore limits your payment options because thatâs total nonsense. In reality, these sites offer all the payment methods youâd ever want. Hereâs what youâll come across to:
- VISA â the co-most popular card accepted on rhe majority of betting sites.
- Mastercard â the other co-most popular card across the betting landscape.
- Bitcoin â the payment method that'll earn you the most free play possible.
- Bank wire â The classic, no-nonsense way to fund your betting account.
Montana Casinos
There are dozens of casinos in Montana owned by several Native American tribes. They are the only places to get Las Vegas-style table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette.
None of the casinos in the state have sports betting kiosks, but thatâs not to say that there could be regulations in the future that could change.
History Of Montana Legalization Efforts
Montana has long contested the sports betting laws in the state, but in recent years have made more progress.
1992 and the PASPA Ban
The 1992 PASPA ban actually gave four states immunity, with Montana being one of them. The state was eligible to allow sports betting all this time. They allowed pool betting, a non-banking game, which is essentially a form of social gambling.
At last changes arrive in 2019
Finally, in 2020, legal sports betting arrived in Montana. Sports betting bill was passed by Governor Steve Bullock, making them the ninth state to legalize sports betting.
Betting on Montana Sports Teams
There are no professional sports teams based in Montana. Itâs too desolate to support any team, little less one from the âBig 4.â This means locals are ofettt spread out in who they support. Though common allegiances go to Denver, Portland, or Seattle franchises since theyâre technically the most nearby â though couldnât be more culturally different than most Montana folks.
Betting on Montana NCAA Teams
When it comes to college sports, Montanans rally behind their homegrown teams, most notably the University of Montana Grizzlies and the Montana State Bobcats. Both schools have strong football traditions, with the âBrawl of the Wild,â their annual rivalry game, being a must-bet spectacle. While neither school is known for churning out NFL stars, the local support is unwavering, and betting interest spikes during this heated in-state rivalry.
Other Types Of Betting In Montana
Casino gambling is deeply ingrained into Montana culture. Deeply! Weâre not kidding you when we say thereâs hundreds, probably thousands of options to play casino-style games while inside the state. Many restaurants and bars offer electronic gaming machines. Theres also more than a dozen tribal casinos which serve the full Vegas experience with table games.
Since the state lottery runs the sports betting arm, you better believe they have a regular lottery system too. The Montana Lottery also offers state-specific games like Big Sky Bonus but also national contests like the Mega Millions and Powerball.
Horse betting is also very core to Montanaâs culture too. This existed long before sports betting was ever legal. Wagers can be placed at a number of different local tracks.
Sports Betting Rules In Each State
Montana isnât the only state weâve covered in detail with our betting guides. In fact, weâve compiled comprehensive guides for every state across the U.S. Take a look at our full lineup of state-specific betting guides below:
Responsible Gaming In Montana
While weâve discussed the fun side of betting in Montana, itâs essential to acknowledge that gambling can sometimes spiral out of control. When betting goes unchecked, it can lead to financial problems, strained relationships, and even addiction. Itâs important to recognize when the hobby is taking a toll.
One of the best ways to keep things in check is by setting a clear betting budget. Decide on a limit for how much money youâre willing to lose â this should be cash that wonât impact your ability to eat (groceries) or live (rent). But sticking to that budget can be tough, and the temptation to chase losses often leads to poor decisions. Having discipline is key.
If you notice betting is becoming a problem â youâre constantly exceeding your budget or feeling anxious about gambling â Montana offers helpful resources. Itâs always a good idea to reach out when gambling is affecting your life (or someone you know too):
Montana Council on Problem Gambling (https://www.mtproblemgambling.org/)
Provides free, confidential support to those struggling with gambling issues. Reach their helpline at 1-888-900-9979.
Gamblers Anonymous Montana (http://www.gamblersanonymous.org)
Offers peer-led support through meetings across the state. Visit their website to find meeting locations and times near you.
National resources like the ones below also work:
Gambling Addiction Support Network (https://www.gamblingaddictionsupport.org/)
A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.centerforresponsiblegaming.org/)
The Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.
24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.gamblinghelponline.org/24-7-helpline)
A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems."