Here’s the latest word from Montana Fishing Guides, and let’s just say winter isn’t done showing off yet. From solid ice on the lakes to hungry fish in the river, the action is still going strong if you know where to look.
Whitefish, MT
If you’ve been waiting for ice season to fall apart, you’re going to have to keep waiting. Whitefish Lake is still locked up and fishing strong. Despite the warm temps, the ice hasn’t given up much ground, and with colder nights and snow in the forecast, we’re not done yet.
The lake trout are cruising deep flats between basins and hanging around the bottoms of big drops—basically anywhere that screams “laker hangout.” White tubes tipped with cutbait are still the dinner bell. Find the structure, drop down, reel up a crank, and wait for that telltale tap. Simple, old-school, and still deadly.
Kalispell, MT
Over on the Flathead, it’s all about timing and attitude. Get a sunny day and you’re in business—fish get happy when the sun’s out. Warm and cloudy? Still solid. If it is cold, gloomy, and miserable, you’ll work harder, but there are still fish to be had.
Nymphing is the top producer right now, streamers are a close second, and if you’re committed to the dry fly life… well, bring your A-game. Target that slow, shallow water and roll something big and dark through it. Late winter eats in that skinny water can be downright awesome if you stick with it.
