Jul 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
5 Streamer Fishing Mistakes That Cost You Big Montana Trout — And How to Fix Them
Fix the 5 most common streamer fishing mistakes before your next Montana float. Practical tips for the Clark Fork, Blackfoot, Madison, and more.
Jul 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
Middle Fork Flathead River — MT Fishing Report 7.27.26
The Orvis report highlights the peak summer fishing conditions in the Middle Fork, with ideal water temperatures of 62°F for trout. Anglers are encouraged to simplify their setups by using single dry flies for effective fishing. Emphasizing the beauty of nature, the report advises staying updated on water temperature while enjoying the experience.
Jul 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Additional fishing restrictions and closures begin July 29 on several Montana rivers and creeks
Montana FWP expands hoot owl fishing restrictions starting July 29 on the Big Hole, Blackfoot, and other southwest and western Montana rivers due to rising water temperatures.
Jul 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
The “Hoot Owl” Hustle: Lower Madison Update (And Where to Head Instead)
The July 28, 2026 fishing report for the Lower Madison reveals important updates: Montana fishing licenses are now exclusively available online, and Hoot Owl restrictions are in effect due to summer heat, resulting in a full closure from Ennis Dam to the pump house. Anglers should target the Upper Madison and Gallatin for better fishing conditions.
Jul 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
World’s Largest Fishing Lure: Lacombe’s Massive Catch
Lacombe, Alberta, unveiled the world's largest fishing lure in 2019, measuring 40 feet and 5.25 inches, surpassing the previous record of 15 feet and 6.72 inches. Created by siblings Jessica Dew and Brad Pallister, the lure commemorates their family bait business and is easily visible off Highway 2A, attracting visitors.
Jul 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Chancy’s Fish Camp: Whitefish Report & Hotspots
This week's fishing update highlights excellent conditions for catching whitefish, with prime locations at both the south and north ends of the lake. JT Tackle has supplied new jigs, and anglers are encouraged to visit Chancy's Fish Camp for gear. Ideal depths are reported to be 50 to 60 feet.
Jul 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Effective Strategies for Trout Fishing the Mo in Hot Weather
The Mo is flowing at 3,550 cfs with water temperatures exceeding 66°F, affecting trout behavior. Anglers should fish early and keep hooks wet. Suggested strategies include using Tricos in the morning and terrestrials in the afternoon, with effective rigs like Hopper-Dropper setups and Zirdle rigs for success.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Meet the Dream Team of Pre-Tournament Salmon Fishing
The Salmon Tournament week has begun on Fort Peck, featuring top competitors Bill Zahradka, the Salmon Slayer, and Gary Rueb, the Black Jaw Fly Guy. They set an impressive standard on the first day by catching a huge 26-pound salmon, signaling a fierce competition ahead for other participants.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 7.27.26
Walleye fishing is thriving in Canyon Ferry, particularly between the Silos and Pond 4 at depths of 10 to 15 feet. Anglers are using various rigs and jigs. In Hauser, walleyes and rainbows are being caught around the Causeway Arm, while Holter offers excellent rainbow fishing. Northern pike are also reported in both locations.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Summer Fishing Tips for Kootenai River by Linehan Outfitting 7.25.26
The Kootenai River is experiencing ideal conditions with Libby Dam maintaining 9,000 cfs, promoting excellent fishing this August. Trout are eagerly active in fast waters, favoring dry flies and nymph setups. Anglers targeting trophies should use larger streamers. Prepare with sunscreen and gear from Linehan Outfitting for optimal fishing.
Jul 27, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Illegal Fish Introductions Now Threatening Montana’s Most Prized Trout Waters
Montana wildlife officials warn illegal introductions of non-native predatory fish are putting the state’s best trout fisheries at serious risk.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catching a World Record Bass Three Times: The Story Behind It
Fishing guide Chris Senyohl captured the same 7-pound smallmouth bass in Lake Sammamish three times in less than two weeks using a handmade fly. His final catch resulted in the fish tying the IGFA world record at 20.86 inches, after which he released it and plans to catch it again.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Blackfoot River Fishing Update: Prime Conditions for Summer 2026
The Blackfoot River is in prime summer condition, with clear waters and active trout. However, floating is restricted below the Weigh Station due to a bridge closure and a logjam presents safety hazards. Anglers are advised to use robust gear and fish using a dry-dropper setup for the best catches.
Jul 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
The “Sweating and Snagging” July 24 Mid-Summer Blueprint
Mid-summer in Montana brings hot weather affecting fishing conditions. The Upper Madison is best fished early or late due to heat, with Epeorus flies proving effective. Lakes are challenging as trout are selective. Fish in Yellowstone National Park face closures, while the Gallatin thrives with grasshoppers. Avoid the muddy Northeast Corner.
Jul 25, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
When Montana’s Backcountry Fly Fishing Trip Turned Genuinely Sketchy
Day two of a 3-day backcountry Montana fly fishing trip went sideways fast — here’s what happened when the wilderness pushed back.
Jul 25, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Reports – July 25th
Montana’s tournament fishing season is going strong, and many anglers are getting prepared for the Tournament of Kings next weekend. […]
Jul 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 7.23.26
Walleye are being caught using bottom bouncers and crawlers in 10-20 feet, with jigs also effective near mayfly hatches. Pike are abundant in various locations, favoring spoons and crankbaits in 8-15 feet. Salmon are scattered; successful lures include Flashers and flies, trolled at 2.1-2.2 speed.
Jul 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hell Creek Marina Fishing Update by Bob Bergquist 7.23.26
The latest report from Hell Creek Marina highlights excellent walleye and bass fishing, with many anglers reaching their limits. However, northern pike are struggling in the calm, warm waters. A stiff wind is needed to cool the lake, or challenging conditions may persist into August.
Jul 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Beat the Heat: Fishing Strategies for Bitterroot River
The Bitterroot River is under Hoot Owl restrictions, prohibiting fishing from 2:00 PM to midnight due to high temperatures. Anglers should plan to fish early in the morning, using tactical strategies with specific flies, while prioritizing trout care. The focus should be on efficient fishing before the afternoon closure.
Jul 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Spearfishing Pike in Montana’s Murky Water: What They Found
Deep State Spearo dives into northwest Montana's stained pike water early summer — low visibility, big teeth, and a surprise they didn't expect. Watch this.
Jul 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Beat the Heat on the Big Hole: Your Morning Angling Game Plan
Montana's Big Hole River is currently experiencing warm water temperatures and declining flows, prompting "hoot owl" restrictions on midday fishing. Fishermen are advised to fish early, focusing on deeper pools and handling fish carefully. As summer progresses, expect Tricos and terrestrial fishing opportunities. Utilize a dry-dropper setup for best results.
Jul 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Boulder River Lowdown: Skinny Water & Spooky Trout
The Boulder River is currently "low and gin clear," making trout easily spooked. As of July 22, 2026, expect good hopper action and morning movements of spruce moths. Water levels will drop in August, leading to wadeable conditions. Late autumn may see migrating brown trout from Yellowstone. Prepare for a technical fishing experience.
Jul 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck’s New Secret Weapon: Dana Lutz
Fort Peck Marina Outfitters welcomes Dana Lutz to their guide team. A seasoned angler with deep local knowledge, Dana recently placed 8th in the Montana Governor's Cup. He offers fishing trips on a 2024 Warrior 2090 Tiller, equipped with advanced Garmin LiveScope electronics, along with sonar training. Book quickly!
Jul 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
From Bait to Record: Cooper Clark’s Fishing Adventure
Imagine cruising 21 miles off the coast, hunting for massive bluefin tuna, and dragging in a fish that actually leaves […]
Jul 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Gallatin River Fishing Tips for Muddy Water, 7.20.26
Recent heavy rains have turned the Gallatin River muddy, making trout fishing challenging. Expert Toby Swank advises anglers to abandon dry fly rods and use heavier rigs with Pat’s Rubberlegs. While conditions are tough now, the river typically rebounds quickly, so patience is key. Consider alternate fishing or relaxing for the day.
Jul 21, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Father-Son Guides Show Colby Acuff What This State Is Really About
Colby Acuff heads to Montana for Fin and Feather Episode 6 with the Hoffman Brothers — a father-son guiding operation that defines this state’s outdoor heritage.
Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn River Beatdown: Your July Cheat Sheet
In high summer, the Bighorn River offers optimal fishing conditions with clear waters at 1,490 CFS. Target fish effectively by timing your efforts: fish early for BWOs, during noon for PMDs, and focus on shaded areas in the heat. Evenings bring caddis activity. Avoid blind-casting during peak heat, and be ready for thunderstorms.
Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Flathead Area Fishing Report by Chancy’s Fish Camp 7.20.26
Chancy's Fish Camp Weekly Fishing Report highlights excellent fishing conditions at Flathead Lake, with notable bites for whitefish, lake trout, smallmouth bass, and salmon across various locations. Rivers are productive for pike and other species. Enthusiasts are encouraged to choose targets and utilize various effective fishing tactics and gear.
Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Your Guide to Walleye and Rainbow Fishing in Helena Area Reservoirs 7.20.26
Fishing is thriving in Helena area reservoirs, with walleye and rainbow trout biting actively. Canyon Ferry offers excellent walleye fishing, while Hauser sees shore anglers catching both walleye and rainbows. Holter is popular for rainbows, kokanee, and walleye. Grab your gear and enjoy the fishing action this season!
Jul 18, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Reports – July 18th
The temperature is heating up in Montana, and so is the fishing in many areas. Get the reports you need […]
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Soup, Slime, and Solitude: The July Guide to the Jefferson River
The Jefferson River is currently low, warm, and filled with algae, prompting Hoot Owl restrictions that ban fishing from 2 PM to midnight. Ideal fishing conditions may return in September after irrigation ends, increasing fish activity. For now, anglers should seek cooler waters and wait for the river to recover.
Jul 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
The Brothers Wild Finally Strike Gold on Montana’s Flathead River
The Brothers Wild Fishing hit Montana’s Flathead River and finally found what they came for — here’s why this one is worth watching.
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Holter and Regulating Reservoir Fishing Reports by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 7.16.26
Holter Lake is currently known for kokanee fishing, with varying success rates. Effective bait includes snap weights with big dodgers and scented corn. Walleye are found near weed beds, favoring perch-patterned lures. At the Regulating Reservoir, kokanee are caught at depths from 10' to 45', primarily using pink or chartreuse lures.
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hauser Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 7.16.26
Walleye are found around weed beds, favoring subtle motions with lures like ned rigs and small paddle tails. The stretch from York Bridge to the dam is currently best for trout, with effective trolling using cranks and weighted cowbells at varying speeds. Kokanee are present but not abundant in Hauser.
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri River Summer Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena: Toston to Great Falls 7.16.26
Missouri River (Toston to Canyon Ferry): With the hot temps the fish have slowed down a little bit but are […]
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 7.16.26
Walleye are best caught with crawlers and slow death hooks in 15-25 feet, while bigger fish are deeper with jigs. For lake trout, target deep flats in 105-125 feet, though fish movement can be unpredictable. Northern pike are abundant, and salmon are best targeted with 8” flashers in 55-80 feet.
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena, 7.16.26
Canyon Ferry's fishing remains productive, particularly for walleye, which can be found from 15 to 30 feet deep. Anglers have success using bottom bouncing with preferred colors like blues and fire tiger patterns. Trout are still biting but are retreating to cooler, deeper waters, primarily around 15 to 30 feet.
Jul 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ruby River Fishing Update: July 2026
The Ruby River is currently experiencing fluctuating water levels due to irrigation and summer heat, leading to "Hoot Owl" fishing restrictions from 2 PM to midnight to protect stressed trout. July may still offer good fishing, especially with various insect hatches. Specific regulations apply in different river sections.
Jul 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Flathead Lake: The Complete Fishing, Recreation, and Wildlife Guide for Montana Outdoorsmen
Flathead Lake is Montana’s crown jewel for fishing, wildlife, and outdoor recreation. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of every season.
Jul 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Mastering Wade Fishing at Rock Creek This Summer
Rock Creek near Clinton offers excellent fishing conditions this summer, with cooler water temperatures keeping fish active. Wade fishing is required as floating is not allowed. Anglers should focus on small flies during the morning and switch to caddis patterns in the evening, adapting techniques based on weather and water conditions.
Jul 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Screen-Free Summer Walleye Strategy
Catch mid-summer walleyes effectively without expensive sonar screens. Employ classic tactics such as spinner rigs, vertical jigging, trolling crankbaits, midday slip bobbers, targeting weedlines, and using live-bait rigging. By focusing on fish habits and seasonal patterns, anglers can succeed without relying on technology.
Jul 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Get The Net Outfitters Fort Peck Salmon Fishing Tip
Fort Peck's fishing can be slow, particularly for salmon. Get the Net Outfitters LLC suggests a solution: while trolling for Kings, drop a jig when marking fish in the top 20 feet. This method often results in catching more Pike than traditional Pike fishing, adding excitement to slow days.
Jul 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Essential Fishing Tips for the Yellowstone River Outside of Bozeman
The Yellowstone River is flowing at 4,440 cfs, and the fishing report advises early morning excursions for successful trout catches, especially upstream where it's cooler. Nymphing is effective for whitefish, while targeting trout requires dry flies like Caddis and Parachute Adams. Big streamers can also trigger aggressive bites.
Jul 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Horses, Fly Rods, and No-Name Rivers: Deep Montana Backcountry Trout
The Flyhards ride horses deep into unnamed Montana wilderness for wild trout. Here’s why some fishing holes are worth keeping off the map.
Jul 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Limited Time Fort Peck Chinook Salmon Charters with Fish On Charters’ Cameron Hockett
Cameron Hockett of Fish On Charters has teamed up with The Captain from the Montana Outdoor Radio Show to catch chinook salmon at Fort Peck, landing an impressive 18 and 23-pounder. He offers guided trips until August 14th, with limited slots available. Call 406-253-8526 to book your adventure.
Jul 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
3 Fly Selection Mistakes That Are Costing You Fish on Montana’s Blue-Ribbon Rivers
A drift boat guide breaks down 3 fly selection mistakes killing your catch rate on Montana’s blue-ribbon rivers this summer.
Jul 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP’s Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 7.13.26
Canyon Ferry offers excellent walleye fishing in Ponds 2 and 3, using bottom bouncers and various lure colors. Hauser is productive for walleye near the Eldorado Dredge Piles, with rainbow fishing thriving below Canyon Ferry Dam. Holter sees strong rainbow catches early, along with some walleye and northern pike near weed beds.
Jul 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Golden Stonefly Season Is Here — Tie the Extended Body Pattern Montana Trout Can’t Refuse
Golden stonefly season is peaking on Montana rivers. Learn to tie an extended body pattern that matches the hatch and fools big trout.
Jul 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Madison River Outfitters Fishing Report, 7.10.26
Overview & River Conditions According to Madison River Outfitters‘ latest fishing report, waters on the Madison River are holding steady, […]
Jul 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
5 Nymphing Mistakes That Are Costing You Fish on Montana Rivers
A veteran guide breaks down the 5 most common nymphing mistakes costing Montana anglers fish — with fixes you can use on the water this season.