Montana bans bear wrestling under its animal cruelty and wildlife protection statutes, treating such acts as illegal fights or mistreatment rather than a specific “bear wrestling” prohibition. This aligns with broader laws against organized animal combat, with penalties including fines up to $50,000 and jail time for violations involving grizzlies. Homeowners face no such quirky bans on common property activities, unlike viral myths.
Animal Fighting Bans
State code MCA 45-8-113 outlaws promoting or participating in fights between animals, explicitly covering bears. Grizzly protections add federal oversight, with self-defense takings allowed only under strict reporting.
Wildlife Management Rules
Grizzlies require permits for any handling; unauthorized contact risks felony charges. Black bears follow similar humane harvest rules during seasons.
Other Odd Restrictions
No unique property laws target everyday yard work, but trespass timber cutting incurs triple damages. Local ordinances may limit fireworks or drones near wildlife areas.
SOURCES
[1](https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0870/chapter_0060/part_0010/section_0060/0870-0060-0010-0060.html)
[2](https://www.animallaw.info/statute/mt-bear-chapter-5-wildlife-protection-part-3-grizzly-bear)
[3](https://www.thewildlifenews.com/2016/08/22/montanas-regulations-for-hunting-grizzly-bears-is-challenged-as-illegal/)
[4](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladviceofftopic/comments/u7q7v4/in_what_states_can_i_still_wrestle_a_bear/)
[5](https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/35820049/college-wrestlers-grizzly-bear-attack)
