Online Gambling in Montana in 2024

Residents of Montana asking, “is gambling legal in MT?”, “can I play at casinos in Montana?” and, “does Montana have online gambling sites”? have arrived at the perfect place. 

This comprehensive guide was formulated to inform locals on everything related to online gambling in Montana and gambling activities in general. Our industry experts have completed the strenuous task of finding the best Montana online betting sites and compiled them into one place for your convenience. In addition to finding the best online gambling Montana sites, we’ll also cover various offer gambling topics from the Big Sky Country, including the legalities, available forms of gambling, how to start gambling in Montana today and more. 

BMR’s Top-Rated Online Gambling Sites for 2024

Let’s start with why most of you arrived on this page – our top ten-ranked online gambling sites in Montana. Our internet gambling experts can’t pick a site that best suits you, but we can guarantee there’s something for everyone below, from sportsbooks and online casinos to racebooks. 

1. Bovada – Montana’s best overall online gambling site
2. Bookmaker – The home of professional bettors in Montana and the U.S.       
3. Heritage Sports – The perfect sportsbook and casino combined   
4. BetOnline – A highly reputable Montana online gambling site      
5. BetAnySports – An extensive sportsbook and casino to match    
6. BetUS – Industry-leading bonuses and promotions at this Montana gambling site  
7. WagerWeb – A nice selection of casino games with a quality online sportsbook       
8. JustBet – A must-use operator for quality online gambling in Montana        
9. Everygame – Competitive sports betting odds and regular poker tournaments  
10. SportsBetting.ag – Noteworthy live dealer games at this online betting site    

Is online gambling legal in Montana?  

There are legal forms of online gambling available in the state of Montana. Mobile sports betting through an app is available but, only if you are at one of the land-based casinos that offer retail sports betting. However, there is not a single licensed gambling operator that can offer a traditional online sports betting option that you can enjoy from home. There is also no online casino gambling offered in the state. 

Montana State residents seeking a true online gambling experience have to use offshore sites. There is no gambling regulation in Montana to prevent residents from doing so. 

These offshore sites operate outside of the jurisdiction of the United States. This allows them to offer online sports betting and hundreds of games in a real-money online casino.  

The Best Online Gambling Sites Compared  

Most of you have arrived at this guide looking for the best online gambling sites in Montana. And, now that you’ve realized playing with offshore casino sites and sportsbooks is legal, you’ve stuck around to learn more. But most importantly, you’ll likely want more clarification on our recommendations. Below are the top five-ranked online gambling sites for Montana bettors and a short review highlighting their top features.  

1. Bovada: Montana’s Best Overall Online Gambling Site 2024

Bovada sits atop our best online gambling sites in Montana list because it provides an inexhaustible selection of sports betting markets, casino games, a racebook and a very popular online poker room. When looking for a top Montana gambling site that provides top-quality service across multiple sections of its site, Bovada is truly undefeated.

The sportsbook at Bovada can have more than 30,000 daily markets, and the value it offers on its odds can compete with the industry’s leaders any day of the week. They focus greatly on U.S. major leagues such as the NFL and NBA but also cater to fans of more niche leagues like the EPL, UFC and NASCAR.

While Bovada’s sportsbook is unquestionably one of its strongest features, the online casino and poker rooms can’t be ignored. From slots, blackjack, baccarat, roulette and a dedicated poker section, this host of casino games run smoothly under the guidance of industry-leading online casino software developers like Real Time Gaming, thus making it a great online gambling experience on both desktop and mobile devices. Additionally, the promo codes at Bovada can be used to quickly boost your bankroll.

2. Bookmaker: The Home of Professional Bettors in Montana and the U.S.      

Bookmaker’s existence within the industry can be dated back to the 1980s, so for any operator to survive this impressive test of time, you already know they’ve earned their stripes in the gambling world. 

Behind its experience, 2023 delivers a version of Bookmaker.eu accessible from any desktop or mobile device for players wanting a sportsbook, casino, or racebook. All of the top casino titles can be found online with Bookmaker, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, slots and more. And if the casino isn’t enough, users can jump over to the sportsbook, where a wealth of betting markets from across hundreds of leagues can be found. 

You’d be right if you thought leading the industry with its early released betting lines, high wagering limits and decades of experience wasn’t enough. Bookmaker sets itself apart from the competition in many ways, including its no-ban policy on professional/winning gamblers.

Unlike any sportsbook/casino on the globe, Bookmaker refuses to suspend, limit or ban consistently successful players earning long-term profits. Furthermore, when you combine this with its early released odds, generous bonuses and high betting limits, it’s no surprise that professional and new bettors flock to this operator for its casino and sportsbook services.

3. Heritage Sports: The Perfect Montana Sportsbook and Casino Combination 

Regular users of online gambling sites will already know the name Heritage Sports, as this reputable brand hasn’t surfaced overnight but has held a respected position within the industry for over two decades. Whether you’re looking for an extensive sportsbook, online casino, or racebook, you can find it all with Heritage Sports. 

The sportsbook includes more than 15 different sports with hundreds of markets found within them. Find the usual suspects, such as football, basketball, hockey, baseball and soccer, as well as a list of growing sports betting markets, such as NASCAR, Formula 1, the UFC and more.

Our experts have tipped Heritage Sports as the No.1 choice for Montanans seeking value from all types of online gambling but also those looking for a reputable brand. Find online slots, table games and more hosted by noteworthy software operators such as BetSoft. The Equity Poker Network runs the Heritage Sports poker rooms. Alongside its excellent sportsbook market range, players will find some of the industry’s most competitive odds and bonus offers, as betting value is always found at Heritage Sports.

4. BetOnline: A Highly Reputable Online Montana Gambling Site       

Running its operations since 2001, BetOnline has garnered a reputation as one of the best online sportsbooks available in North America. However, as of 2024, BetOnline is receiving attention for its complete services, which include a sports betting section, live wagering, casino, racebook, poker games and esports betting – all under the same roof.

BetOnline covers all of the most popular online gambling activities. Still, more importantly, with such a wide variety of games and sports to gamble on, they haven’t allowed the site to become cluttered and confusing. Players can easily switch from the casino, sportsbook, racebook and poker rooms without complication, and its layout makes life easy for all tasks.

The sportsbook is world-renowned, so little to no introduction is needed. Still, we must highlight the industry-competitive odds, live betting, live streaming and sports wagering-specific tools that separate this sportsbook from the competition. And for good measure, the casino emulates the sportsbook in many facets when considering its variety and high-quality experience.

BetOnline has a 100% matched deposit of up to $1,000 for new casino customers, and sportsbook users can receive a 50% matched bonus of the same value. Plus, there are numerous promo codes at BetOnline that users can take advantage of.

5. BetAnySports: An Extensive Sportsbook and Casino to Match  

Casino and horse betting enthusiasts do not need to worry; BetAnySports is just the branding. While it does provide one of the most extensive selections of sports to wager on, the slots, table games, and horse wagers are readily available for its customers. 

Naturally, fans of the Montana Grizzlies will appreciate the comprehensive sports betting markets found at BAS, as there are more than twenty different sports to bet on, each offering competitive odds throughout a plethora of markets that include moneyline, totals, futures, props and more. However, to keep up with its competition, the BetAnySports platform delivers top-notch casino games, quality online software, several banking options and noteworthy bonuses.

The casino may not have an extensive range of games as some other operators found above do, but they do feature tables with real dealers. BAS customers can make great use of its cash rebates, reduced juice lines and highly competitive odds. They’re also crypto-friendly and accept PayPal. The site’s navigability is simplistic on top of an attractive layout and accessible on any desktop or mobile device.

Our Rating Methodology 

Finding the best online gambling sites in Montana is no simple task, especially when looking for a complete operator that excels in its sportsbook, casino, racebook, poker, Montana Lottery and other gambling offerings. 

In producing our top 10 list, a group of industry experts, pro gamblers and gambling site experts set out to test all Montana operators. These gambling sites are put under a microscope and must meet a specific criterion before being considered in our top ratings. 

Many factors are considered, but the most crucial aspects when looking for the best Montana gambling sites include brand reputation, market selection, bonus/promo offers, customer service, payment methods and site safety amongst many others. 

Montana State’s History of Gambling Laws    

Montana isn’t exactly known for its flourishing gambling community; overall, it’s been slow at embracing gaming. 

During the late 1800s, every form of gambling was banned. Many years later, in 1939, minor leeway was made when the legislature allowed specific counties in Montana to provide some types of gambling. 

But it wasn’t until the 1990s that serious movement occurred, as state regulators agreed with three tribes. These pacts paved the way for casino gaming in the state. In 2007, online gambling was banned. 

Timeline of Gambling in Montana States    

• 2019: The Governor of Montana signs off on BH 725 and regulated sports betting was introduced to the state.
• 2017: Montana approves season-long DFS bill. 
• 2015: Daily Fantasy Sports fails before reaching a committee level.   
• 2005: Montana legislature prohibits online gambling.  
• 1994: tate government agrees with Native Tribes, forming gaming compacts to allow for tribal casinos to open.   
• 1986: Voters give the green light for Montana Lottery. 
• 1985: Congress approves the Video Poker Machine Act, allowing liquor venues to provide keno and video poker.  
• 1984: Montana prohibits the use of video poker machines.  
• 1973: A bill was passed to bring legal gambling back to Montana. Certain forms of charitable gambling such as bingo games, raffles and poker became legal. 
• 1972: Voters reach a lopsided decision that allows residents and Congress to decide future gambling matters. 
• 1950: Voters reject casino gaming, but the Montana Supreme Court legalized slot machines. 
• 1939: The Hickey Act gives specific counties the right to provide certain table games. 
• 1925: Pari-mutuel wagering is active despite its failure to become legalized. 
• 1889: Montana bans every form of gambling. 

Key Features of the Best Online Gambling Sites

Before deciding which online gambling site in Montana best suits you, it’s important to know whether or not an operator provides the basic services it should. Below we’ve highlighted the key features you should add to your checklist when looking for the best online Montana gambling sites. 

Competitive Gambling Odds 

Competitive odds set an operator apart from its competition. And a few select operators are always found at the top of the pile regarding sportsbook odds, house edges and RTP% (Return to Player Percentages). Using an operator that delivers noteworthy value is important for a gambler’s long-term investment, which is why considering a brand’s overall value is important.

Betting Markets  

The selection of sports or casino games is another crucial factor when looking at an online gambling site’s features. The best Montana gambling sites deliver a diverse selection of sports, live betting, an extensive range of casino games, a racebook and sometimes a poker room and lottery section. 

Deposit & Withdrawal Methods  

When it comes to banking methods, cryptocurrency options and e-Wallets such as PayPal have become incredibly popular for online gamblers. However, the best operators will provide several banking options, including more traditional ones like credit and debit cards. 

Generous Promotions & Bonus Offers   

Most online sportsbooks and casinos in the United States utilize welcome bonuses and consistent promotions to attract new customers and keep current ones. However, we always look beyond the face value of a bonus and ensure the T&Cs are fair to a customer. 

Live Dealers & Live Betting Available   

Live gambling cannot be neglected in twenty-first-century online gaming. If an operator fails to give its customers a live experience, they aren’t a top-tier gambling site. Sportsbooks should have live in-play wagering options, while casinos get bonus points for live dealer tables and live poker rooms that feature real dealers and interactive play. 

Mobile Site Quality 

As modern-day gamblers are shifting from traditional desktop computers and utilizing their mobile device more and more each day, the best Montana online gambling sites must provide an online experience almost identical to their desktop offering. This is achieved through a downloadable betting app or a mobile-optimized site. 

Customer Service Options   

If a customer has a complaint or needs to ask an important question, how many operators are catering to these issues promptly? Well, you’d be surprised how many online gambling sites fail to achieve basic services like this. That’s why we like to see Montana online gambling sites that provide a 24/7 live chat option, thus allowing users to resolve a site issue immediately. Phone and email contact should also be available. 

Site’s Security Features   

When our money and personal information are involved, it’s imperative for customers to feel at ease when using an online site. This is why the best online gambling sites have instilled security to protect their users. SSL encryption, two-factor authentication and the most up-to-date security software features are good starting points.

Online & In-Person Gambling in Montana  

There’s a beautiful caveat to some of Montana’s strict online gambling laws. While the law strictly prohibits online gambling, it also highlights that these laws are inapplicable when gambling on an offshore website. 

Many forms of gambling have been legalized in Montana, but most are restricted to in-person gambling. And while online sports betting is legal at specific establishments, the state doesn’t offer much in terms of physical bookmakers.  

Montana Sports Betting   

Despite being one of the few states exempt from PASPA, Montana didn’t opt to legalize sports betting until after it was abolished. 

Sports betting was legalized in Montana in 2019 and went live in 2020. The state allows limited mobile wagering at one of the state’s restaurants/bars holding a sports betting license. 

Online sports wagering is best obtained via one of the best offshore sites in this guide. From welcome bonuses to sport-specific promotions, and unmatchable odds value, these operators provide the best sports-wagering experience for Montana residents. 

Horse Race Betting in Montana   

Montana law allows for off-track horse racing betting. However, only pari-mutuel wagering is offered and only at specific locations; certain establishments with liquor licenses can also host kiosks that allow Montana residents to place horse racing wagers.

None of these locations are actual racetracks, though, as the two remaining racecourses in MT are only accessible when they rarely host live events. Montana race tracks used to host 140 days of racing annually; unfortunately, this has dropped to 14. 

Montana’s top-rated online gambling sites provide betting odds on U.S. and international race courses. It’s easy to see why many residents prefer offshore online options to domestic books.

Casino-Style Games in Montana   

Montana is the home of many licensed and regulated casinos. However, most of these establishments present limited stakes and jackpots. This has resulted in many Montana residents turning to reputable and trustworthy casino sites found with offshore operators like Bookmaker and BetOnline. 

Playing Poker in Montana   

Poker is legal in Montana. However, almost every poker room is restricted to single-table establishments. In-person poker can be found at the Oxford, RiverBoat Cardroom, Gold Mine Casino, Glacier Peaks Casino & Bingo, just to name a few. 

These poker rooms, however, aren’t comparable to top online poker sites such as Bovada or BetOnline. These operators provide regular poker tournaments, cash games and a wealth of options that cannot be found in Montana’s physical card rooms. 

Montana State Lottery   

Since 1986 the Montana Lottery has provided various drawings and scratch tickets. Players must be at least 18 years old. Montana joined the Multi-State Lottery Association and offered national lottery draws like the Powerball and Mega Millions. 

However, this doesn’t compare to the lottery offerings of offshore gambling sites like BetAnySports. Some top operators provide a huge selection of lottery games; some even present an entire lobby dedicated to lottery games.    

Creating an Online Gambling Account  

Below you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to create an online gambling account. 

Step 1: Signing-Up Online   

Choose one of the reputable offshore gambling sites found in our top 10 rankings. On the site’s landing page, click the “join” or “register” button and complete the registration form presented. 

Step 2: Verifying Your Account Details    

Once you’ve filled out some basic details and provided some identification, you’ll need to activate your account. Locate the activation email in your inbox, and click the link to verify. 

Step 3: Funding Your Account    

Return to your activated gambling account and find the operator’s cashier. Select a payment method, enter your banking details, whether it’s crypto, credit card or e-Wallet; decide how much you’d wish to deposit, then confirm. If a promo code is applicable, don’t forget to enter this at step 2 or 3 to claim your bonus. Also, be sure to check the terms and conditions on any bonus that you want to claim. There may be a minimum deposit threshold you have to clear to get any bonus money. 

Step 4: Enjoy Gambling Online   

Your funds will arrive almost instantly. You’re now ready to start gambling at the online casino or sportsbook. Gamble responsibly and enjoy the online experience. 

FAQs – Online Gambling Options in Montana