The Department of the Interior has announced the largest expansion of outdoor access in U.S. history, providing 1,450 new hunting and fishing opportunities across 32 states, covering 92 million acres of public land. This change simplifies access through a new “open unless closed” policy, benefiting both sportsmen and rural economies.

Grizzly bears are expanding their range eastward, prompting a community Bear Aware Meeting hosted by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and Fort Belknap Fish and Wildlife. Scheduled for May 27 at the Bingo Hall, the event will provide practical tips on bear safety, including a hands-on bear spray demonstration. All are welcome.

This week’s fishing forecast for Western Montana highlights improved conditions despite ongoing spring runoff. The Bitterroot River is the top choice, offering fishable flows and structure. Successful fishing strategies involve targeting soft banks and using nymphs and streamers, with dry-fly options limited. Monitor hydrographs for flow changes and prioritize safety.

Wildlife biologists recently completed mule deer aerial spring surveys across southeast Montana’s Region 7, and for the third straight year the total number of observed mule deer and overall densities have increased.

We’ve all seen some questionable behavior on social media, but a couple of recent images circulating out of Smithers, BC, […]

The warming weather has improved fishing across Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs. Walleyes are active, with good catches reported in Canyon Ferry and Lake Helena, while rainbows and kokanee are in abundance. Various baits and techniques are effective, attracting multi-species action throughout these waters.

The 39th Annual Montana Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament will take place from July 9-11, 2026, at Fort Peck, Montana. Featuring huge payouts, a new Random Weight Side Pot, and a Photo, Catch, and Release format, the event promises excitement for anglers of all skill levels and includes community activities throughout the weekend.

This smoky venison meatloaf recipe by Jenn Yarbrough transforms traditional comfort food with wood-fired flavor. By mixing venison with beef for moisture, the dish achieves a rich texture. Cooked in a vertical smoker, it features a sweet and tangy glaze, making it a delightful outdoor meal option.

Starting Monday evening, Libby Dam will increase Kootenai River outflows to 25,000 cfs, creating challenging fishing conditions as fish adapt. The river is closed to fishing until June 1. Meanwhile, spring hatches are occurring, and nymphing remains effective. Additionally, the Boston Red Sox are recovering after recent management changes.

The Fort Peck Headquarters got some VIP company over the holiday weekend. Kelsey—daughter of the Captain himself—and her boyfriend, Chris […]

The spring spawning cycle near Hauser Dam has ended, prompting fish to focus on hunting. As fishing conditions peak, the absence of anglers creates a unique, quiet atmosphere. With warming water and imminent hatches, anglers find success using various techniques. This serene moment will soon give way to busier summer conditions.

At dawn, a unique quietness envelops the world, offering freedom and peace as summer begins. Memorial Day, often overshadowed by commercialism, is a solemn reminder of those who sacrificed everything for our freedoms. While enjoying outdoor adventures, we should honor their memory by appreciating the beauty and liberty they provided.

Skinnytaste recommends a five-ingredient salmon salad as a refreshing alternative to traditional tuna salad. This easy recipe combines flaked salmon, diced red onion, and sliced celery, bound with minimal mayonnaise. Seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, it offers a high-protein meal option that keeps well and pleases even salmon skeptics.

Twelve-year-old Josiah Hernandez from Glasgow caught a northern pike while fishing, revealing a 14-inch carp inside its stomach, making for an unforgettable day and an impressive achievement.

Melody and Charlie Lenkner chose to donate their 330-acre property south of Twin Falls to the Magic Valley Land Trust instead of selling it to developers. This decision aims to preserve the land as a sanctuary for wildlife and a community nature preserve, contrasting the rapid development in Southern Idaho and Montana.

Reports from all across the state of Montana say, the fish are biting,  and so go get yours this Memorial […]

If you missed this week’s show, get it here. Montana Outdoor Radio Show · Montana Outdoor Hr 1 May 23rd […]

Captain Matt McComb of Fish on Charters is delivering exceptional fishing experiences in Montana's Flathead Valley. Recent trips to Flathead Lake have produced impressive Lake Trout, while Salmon Lake offers trophy-sized Northern Pike. With slots filling quickly, anglers are encouraged to book their adventure soon for an unforgettable fishing trip.

The 39th Annual Montana Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament features game-changing payouts, including $20,000 for first place and $40,000 in random-weight prizes, making it accessible for all participants.

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced the closure of the spring black bear hunting season in Black Bear Management Unit 700 for hunters without hounds, effective May 23, 2026, at sunset. This action is due to reaching predetermined harvest quotas. Hunters should verify regulations for adjacent units and report any harvested bears.

Fort Peck Lake, known for its exceptional fishing, hosted the Crooked Creek Walleye Tournament where competitors caught over 100 pounds to win. Chris McFadden and Brem Phipps topped the leaderboard with 102.04 pounds. Interested anglers can register for the upcoming Montana Governor's Cup, featuring new events and diverse prizes, scheduled for July 2026.

As Memorial Day approaches, fishers have experienced success on the Firehole, Gibbon, and Madison rivers since May 1st. Snowpack levels are low but melting slowly, ensuring fishable conditions. Each river offers unique strategies for anglers, with notable hatches and species available. Early fishing opportunities may emerge this season.

Walleye are biting on VMC Mooneye jigs and Marble eye jigs, particularly near main lake points. Smallmouth are responding well to KVD crankbaits and jigs in shallow areas. Lakers are being caught in 15-35 feet using crankbaits, with some found deeper at 55-70 feet on specific jigs and paddletails.

On May 31st, Fort Peck, MT, will host the Trace’s Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic, a free event honoring Trace Louis. Starting at 10:00 AM, children will learn fishing skills, safety, and receive supplies, while enjoying outdoor activities. Community support aims to establish this as an annual tradition for families.

Paddlefish activity is increasing as Memorial Day approaches, with elevated river flows prompting movement in the upper Missouri. Biologist Cody Nagel reports that current flows are 7200 cfs, enhancing angling success. Anglers should expect busy conditions at the Fred Robinson Bridge, where catching paddlefish is on the rise.

The 2022 Stillwater River floods prompted extensive bank projects, harming fish habitats. Fisheries biologist Bryan Giordano warns of a 90% decline in fish populations due to human interventions and climate change impacts.

Montana's fishing report highlights good conditions on lakes and rivers, with notable bear activity closing areas. Effective flies include chironomids and mayfly nymphs. Stay cautious in bear territories.

Montana's spring weather fluctuates wildly, slowing high-country snowmelt and benefiting fisheries. Local lakes are reliable for clear water fishing, while rivers like the Flathead shift to fishable conditions.

Western Montana's rivers experience high-water conditions from May 19–25, 2026. While improvements are noted, anglers should focus on slow water areas between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. The Bitterroot River is highlighted for its fishable channels, but caution is necessary due to debris. Subsurface techniques, particularly heavy nymphs and streamers, are most effective.

California prohibits bear spray in national parks due to the presence of only black bears, which are generally less aggressive. Hikers should instead use air horns or bells and practice good trail etiquette.