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)
