Find out the latest hunting and fishing report from Ryan at Bob Wards in Helena.

Hunting:

Archery, upland, and backcountry rifle seasons are in full swing so if you’re in need of gear swing on in and let us help you gear up. Make sure to bring pictures down of your successful hunts or catches and post them on are bulletin board. Don’t forget to take your fishing gear with you when you’re hunting for a little surf and turf. Hunt mornings then fish early in the afternoon before you hunt in the evenings. FWP is really adamant about being bear aware this season. We’ve already had a few encounters so carry your bear spray which is on special now at Bob Ward’s.

Upcoming opening dates:

Youth Pheasant/Waterfowl weekend – September 27 – 28th

Waterfowl October 4th

General Antelope/Pheasant – October 11th

Deer only Youth 2 Day Hunt – October 16 – 17

Fishing:

Canyon Ferry Lake: Trout fishing has been pretty solid up north by the dam and Cemetery Island.  Try trolling cowbells or a flashy spoon tipped with a worm.  Shoreline fishing has been productive as well—try throwing wooly buggers or spoons.  The Walleye are still productive as well.  The south is still producing plenty of Walleye but if you’re in deeper water try targeting the Walleye around 20’ deep with a crawling harness with worm or Rapalas.

Helena Regulating Reservoir:  Snagging season for Kokanee Salmon is in full swing and will continue through the end of October.

Missouri River: The big “Mo” is fishing well, cooler nights have kept the trout happy and hungry.  Trico’s have been slowing down but mayflies have been starting to pick up in the mornings and afternoons. By mid-day through the evening try switching to hoppers and you can also have some luck with an ant dropper, as well.