Montana Sports Betting 2026 | Legality & Best Sportsbooks

Eric Uribe By , 
Reviewed by , 
Fact checked by
Updated on: Mar 23, 2026 12:00 AM

Sports-betting-in-Montana

Montana was one of the early states to move into the regulated wagering space after the federal sports betting ban was lifted in 2018. Today, Montana sports betting is legal, but it operates under a very specific framework that looks quite different from most other U.S. markets. Instead of allowing a wide range of competing sportsbooks, the state runs betting through the Montana Lottery and a single platform called Sports Bet Montana, which is available only at licensed retail locations across the state.

This structure reflects the broader approach to gambling in Montana, where regulators have chosen a tightly controlled system rather than an open commercial market. While bettors can place wagers at approved bars, taverns, and other licensed venues, there are no state-approved sportsbook apps that allow people to bet freely from home. As a result, the overall betting experience in Montana remains more limited than what you will find in many other regulated states.

At Online Sports Betting, we have analyzed the full landscape to help you understand exactly how wagering works in the Treasure State. Keep reading to the end of this guide to learn everything you need to know about Montana betting options and how the market looks in 2026.

Montana quick facts

CategoryMontana
⚖️ Sports Betting Laws⚠️ Legal but restricted (state monopoly)
👫 Population~1.1 million
👶 Minimum Gambling Age18
🏙️ Retail Sports Betting✅ Available (in-person at licensed locations only)
🌐 Online Sports Betting⚠️ Limited (registration & browsing only)
📱 Mobile Sports Betting⚠️ Geofenced only (no at-home betting)
🐎 Online Horse Betting❌ Not Available
🏆 DFS✅ Available
Last updated on: March 23, 2026

Is sports betting legal in Montana?

Yes, sports betting is legal in Montana. The state approved sports wagering in April 2019 with the passage of House Bill 725, and betting officially launched in 2020 through the Montana Lottery. Unlike many other states, Montana does not operate a competitive sportsbook market. Instead, all legal wagering runs through a single platform called Sports Bet Montana, which is managed by the state lottery and available at licensed retail locations such as bars, taverns, and small casinos.

Montana does offer a mobile betting app called Sports Bet Montana, but it works differently than typical sportsbook apps. While users can browse odds and manage their accounts from anywhere, actual bets can only be placed when the bettor is physically inside an approved retail location connected to the lottery system. This means there are no statewide at-home sportsbook apps currently available in Montana.

Because of these limitations, many bettors look for alternative platforms that provide broader betting access and features. Below, we break down the most popular options and explain how they compare to the state-run Montana betting system.

Mar 23, 2026 13:21 PM

Montana’s sports betting remains legal through the state-run Sports Bet Montana. 

Montana sports betting timeline

2026 — Sports Bet Montana Continues as State Platform

Montana continues to operate sports betting through the Sports Bet Montana platform run by the state lottery. Wagers can be placed at approved locations statewide.

2025 — Lottery-Run Sports Betting Market Stabilizes

Montana’s state-run sportsbook continued operating through lottery partners, with wagering limited to designated venues rather than statewide mobile betting.

2024 — Montana Maintains Limited Sports Betting Model

Unlike competitive sportsbook markets, Montana retains a lottery-controlled betting system that restricts operators and limits mobile wagering access.

2023 — Sports Bet Montana Remains Only Legal Option

The state lottery platform remained the only legal way to bet on sports in Montana, with wagers placed through participating retail venues.

Top Montana sports betting sites

There are plenty of offshore sportsbooks available to Montana bettors in 2026. However, if we could only suggest seven, it would certainly be these ones:

  1. BetUS: Known for offering large welcome bonuses and a variety of promotional offers.
  2. Bovada: Well-established brand with a straightforward platform and dependable mobile betting options.
  3. BetOnline: Offers competitive odds and often posts betting lines earlier than many competitors.
  4. XBet: Mobile-friendly sportsbook designed for bettors who prefer wagering on phones or tablets.
  5. BetNow: Provides regular promotions and bonuses for both new and returning players.
  6. MyBookie: Features a rewards program that allows frequent bettors to earn additional benefits.
  7. Everygame: Long-running sportsbook that offers a wide selection of live betting markets.

1. BetUS

BetUS pros & cons

  • Attractive promos & bonuses
  • Vast betting markets
  • Rollovers can be high
  • No live streaming

BetUS is a well-known offshore sportsbook that offers a wide range of betting markets along with casino and gaming options on a single platform. The site appeals to many bettors thanks to its consistent promotional offers, broad sports coverage, and straightforward betting interface. In addition to its sportsbook, BetUS also provides casino games and other wagering options, making it a versatile choice for players who want multiple betting experiences in one place. It's currently offering a new-customer welcome offer of 225% up to $3,625.

Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Play Online Now
BetUS
BetUS Review
BONUS $ 3625
BetUS

2. Bovada

Bovada pros & cons

  • Trustworthy brand
  • Slick webpage
  • No live streaming
  • Dated-looking platform

Bovada is a long-established offshore sportsbook with a large user base and a reputation for reliability in the online betting industry. The platform offers a wide selection of sports betting markets along with casino and gaming options, all within a simple and easy-to-navigate interface. Its straightforward design and consistent performance make Bovada a popular choice for bettors who prefer a stable platform with broad wagering options. It's currently offering an attractive promotion worth 50% up to $250.

Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Play Online Now
Bovada
Bovada Review
BONUS $250
Bovada

3. BetOnline

BetOnline pros & cons

  • Extensive sports betting menu
  • Fast, reliable payouts
  • Promotions are sometimes limited

BetOnline is a well-known offshore sportsbook that offers a wide range of betting markets across major leagues and international sports. The platform is recognized for its extensive sportsbook menu, competitive odds, and consistent line availability across many different events. In addition to sports wagering, BetOnline also provides casino games and other betting options, making it a versatile platform for bettors who want access to multiple types of wagering in one place. Secure its current offer of 50% up to $250 today.

Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Play Online Now
BetOnline
BetOnline Review
BONUS $250
BetOnline

4. XBet

XBet pros & cons

  • Top-tier mobile app
  • Great live betting feature
  • Contests are limited

XBet is an offshore sportsbook designed with a strong focus on mobile usability. The platform features a modern interface that works smoothly on smartphones and tablets, allowing bettors to access markets, place wagers, and follow live events through a mobile browser without downloading an app. Its clean layout and reliable performance make it a convenient option for bettors who prefer placing bets from their mobile devices. Lock in its 50% up to $200 new customer promotion today.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Play Online Now
Xbet
Xbet Review
BONUS $200
Xbet

5. BetNow

BetNow pros & cons

  • Multiple bonuses
  • Solid rebate program
  • Casino is limited

BetNow is an offshore sportsbook that offers a wide range of betting markets along with casino and gaming options on the same platform. The site is known for its variety of promotions and flexible bonuses, giving bettors multiple ways to enhance their wagering experience. With a straightforward interface and broad sportsbook coverage, BetNow appeals to players looking for a platform that combines diverse betting options with ongoing promotional incentives. Sign up today to secure its 125% up to $2,500 offer.

Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Play Online Now
BetNow
BetNow Review
BONUS $2,500
BetNow

6. MyBookie

MyBookie pros & cons

  • All-in-one sportsbook
  • Great track record
  • Terms of its loyalty program are unclear

MyBookie is an offshore betting platform that combines sports betting, casino games, horse racing wagering, and poker within a single account. The sportsbook offers a wide range of leagues and betting markets, while the platform’s casino and poker sections provide additional gaming options for players who want more variety. MyBookie also features a rewards program that allows frequent bettors to earn points and benefits through regular play across its different betting products. It is currently offering a tempting 100% up to $1000 welcome offer.

Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Play Online Now
MyBookie
MyBookie Review
BONUS $ 1000
MyBookie

7. Everygame

Everygame pros & cons

  • Great live betting feature
  • Vast sportsbook market
  • Bonuses could be higher
  • Platforms requires a revamp

Everygame is a long-running offshore sportsbook with roots dating back decades and a reputation for serving international bettors. The platform offers a wide range of sports markets along with live betting options that allow users to place wagers while games are in progress. With strong coverage of major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and global soccer competitions, Everygame appeals to bettors looking for broad sports coverage and consistent in-play betting opportunities. Lock in its 50% up to $500 offer while it lasts!

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Play Online Now
Everygame
Everygame Review
BONUS $500
Everygame

Regulated sportsbooks in Montana

There are currently no traditional commercial sportsbooks operating in Montana. Instead of licensing multiple operators, the state runs sports betting exclusively through the Montana Lottery’s platform, Sports Bet Montana. Wagers can be placed at approved retail locations such as bars, taverns, and small casinos, but major operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars are not licensed to offer sportsbook services in the state.

Montana’s single-operator model means the competitive sportsbook market seen in many other states does not exist here. Unless state lawmakers change the current structure, Sports Bet Montana will likely remain the only regulated betting option available locally. Because of these limitations, some bettors explore offshore sportsbook apps that accept players from Montana and operate outside the state’s regulatory system.

Montana casinos

Montana does not have large commercial casino resorts like many other states. Instead, the state’s gambling industry is centered around tribal casinos and thousands of smaller licensed gaming locations that offer video gambling machines. Tribal casinos provide the closest experience to traditional casinos in Montana, typically featuring gaming machines, poker, dining, and entertainment. The casinos currently operating as of 2026 are:

  • Apsaalooke Nights Casino
  • Big Arm Resort & Casino
  • Charging Horse Casino
  • Fort Belknap Casino
  • Glacier Peaks Casino
  • Gray Wolf Peak Casino
  • KwaTaqNuk Resort & Casino
  • Little Big Horn Casino
  • Northern Winz Casino
  • Northern Winz II Casino
  • Silver Wolf Casino
  • Standing Rock Casino

In addition to these tribal casinos, Montana has hundreds of smaller gaming establishments located inside bars, taverns, truck stops, and standalone gaming parlors. These venues typically feature video gambling machines and often host Sports Bet Montana kiosks where bettors can place sports wagers through the Montana Lottery system.

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

Montana had limited sports pool betting under PASPA, but full sportsbook betting was only authorized after PASPA was repealed and Montana passed HB 725 in 2019.

At last changes arrive in 2019

Finally, in 2020legal 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 teams

Football
Football is one of the most popular sports to bet on in Montana, particularly during the NFL and college football seasons. The state does not have a professional team, so many bettors follow nearby franchises such as the Denver Broncos or Seattle Seahawks. At the college level, interest centers around the University of Montana Grizzlies and the Montana State Bobcats, whose annual rivalry game known as the Brawl of the Wild attracts significant betting attention.

Basketball
Basketball betting in Montana typically focuses on college programs and nearby NBA teams. Local bettors often follow the Montana Grizzlies and Montana State Bobcats during the NCAA season, while professional interest tends to lean toward regional teams such as the Denver Nuggets or Portland Trail Blazers. March Madness also generates strong wagering activity each year.

Baseball
Although Montana does not have a Major League Baseball franchise, the sport still offers consistent betting opportunities throughout the long MLB season. Bettors in the state commonly follow nearby teams such as the Seattle Mariners or Colorado Rockies. With games played almost daily for much of the year, baseball remains a steady betting market.

Combat sports
Combat sports such as UFC and boxing are also available through sportsbooks and attract regular betting interest. Fight cards take place throughout the year, giving bettors the chance to wager on major headline bouts as well as undercard fights. These events provide additional betting opportunities outside traditional team sports.

Montana-teams-betting

Other betting types in Montana

Casino gaming
Casino gaming is widely available across Montana and is deeply embedded in the state’s gambling culture. Many bars, restaurants, and standalone gaming locations offer electronic video gambling machines, while several tribal casinos provide a more traditional casino experience with gaming machines, poker, and other table-style games.

Horse racing betting
Horse racing has long been part of Montana’s betting landscape, well before sports betting was legalized. Bettors can place pari-mutuel wagers at local racetracks and through simulcast betting on races from other venues around the country. These racing events continue to draw steady interest from bettors across the state.

Lottery
The Montana Lottery oversees sports betting in the state and also operates a full range of lottery games. Players can participate in national jackpots such as Powerball and Mega Millions, along with Montana-specific games like Big Sky Bonus and a variety of scratch-off tickets available at retail locations statewide.

Online sports betting guides 2026

Betting should always be about entertainment first, but it is natural to want to make some money along the way. Random guesses will rarely lead to long term success, especially when sportsbooks use sophisticated models to set their odds. If you want to improve your chances of winning, it helps to develop a smarter approach to betting. Here are a few good places to start:

Sports betting rules in other US states

Montana isn’t the only state we’ve covered in detail with our betting guides. In fact, we’ve 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

It is important to stay safe while gambling. If you detect a lack of control or other symptoms of problem gambling, check out some of these resources:

Local:

  • Montana Council on Problem Gambling (http://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.
  • Montana problem gambling hotline: Residents of Montana seeking help with problem gambling can also call 888-900-9979.

National:

Montana sports betting FAQs

Meet the author

Eric Uribe

Sports betting writer covering regulation, market trends, and industry news. Journalist by trade with a background in sports reporting across Nevada. Focuses on legalization, tax policy, revenue, and betting market developments. Combines betting knowledge with busine...

Online Sports Betting may receive compensation if you sign up through our links. Rest assured, we avoid biases and provide honest opinions on sportsbooks. Read our affiliate disclosure here.

Strictly 18+ Only, Please Bet Responsibly
Online Sports Betting © 2026 Strictly 18+ Only, Please Bet Responsibly