Jul 26, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Phipps & McFadden Run Away with Hell Creek Walleye Title – Smash Fort Peck with Over 131 pounds

The top team five teams all finished with more than 100 pounds!

Jul 26, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Harmful Algal Blooms Confirmed on Hebgen Reservoir- Advisory Issued

Bozeman, Mont. – July 24, 2026 – Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are present on Hebgen Reservoir in the Coffin Springs area […]

Jul 22, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Butte’s Nick Mowrer wins USA Shooting National Championship

Two-time Olympian Nick Mowrer won the 10m Men’s Air Pistol contest at the USA Shooting National Championships in June. Photo: […]

Jul 22, 2026 · Angela Montana

Protecting Native Fish: Brown Trout Threat in Flathead

Well, it looks like some uninvited guests are trying to crash the Flathead party, and wildlife officials are definitely not […]

Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP Proposes Reduced Wolf Quota Amid Population Concerns

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announced a software update to its wolf tracking system, revealing two population estimates: 1,094 wolves from the old model and 725 from the new, more precise model. Due to a declining population trend, FWP proposes reducing the wolf harvest quota from 450 to 250. Public comments are due by August 12.

Jul 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hunter-Ed Course Explained for Montana Residents

To hunt in Montana if born after January 1, 1985, certification is required to ensure safety and compliance with local laws. Adults can complete the Hunter-Ed course online, while those aged 12-17 must attend a field day. After certification, hunters can purchase tags, ensuring readiness for the season.

Jul 18, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Bear killed after fatal attack on 2 people in Canada

A bear was involved in the incident that tragically resulted in the death of two individuals who were found at McTavish Lake.

Jul 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Surplus drawing license opportunities randomized

Hunters who registered to be placed on the Surplus List can now check their status on MyFWP.

Jul 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Feeding of wildlife leading to increased bear conflicts in Red Lodge area

“I’ve never seen bears behaving quite like this,” said Shawn Stewart, a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wildlife biologist who has worked in the area for more than five decades. “They’re bolder, breaking into vehicles and homes in broad daylight and approaching, following and even chasing people.

Jul 16, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Yellowstone Shaken by Magnitude 3.3 Earthquake

If you were camping or fishing in Yellowstone this morning, you may have felt a little extra excitement.

Jul 16, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

FK&L Dispersed Recreation Site Closes for Major Improvements

When this dispersed camping area at Hungry Horse Reservoir reopens it will have amenities, and will be for day use. What do you think of the changes?

Jul 16, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Glacier National Park to plug historic oil well near Kintla Lake

Temporary trail and wilderness campground closures expected through fall 2026

Jul 16, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Update: Partial fishing closures shift to full closures on select rivers in Yellowstone 

Planning on fishing in Yellowstone? Take note of the closure.

Jul 13, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

When Trails Trend: UM Graduate Tracks Social Media Impact on Montana Landscapes

User-created paths often form organically over time, but in the modern digital world the resulting impacts are magnified with increased exposure. These “destination social trails” lead to places that have become popular through digital media, essentially “trending” outdoor destinations.

Jul 13, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

DEQ to formally list Big Hole River as impaired for eutrophication and dissolved oxygen

What do you think of this action by Montana DEQ?

Jul 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

How Fawns Disappear: Nature’s Disappearing Act

A newborn fawn executes an extraordinary disappearing act by lying flat to blend into its surroundings. This impressive camouflage allows it to transform from a visible baby deer into an almost invisible part of the forest floor, showcasing nature's evolutionary brilliance in stealth and survival.

Jul 10, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Human remains found near Revenue Flats identified

The victim had been missing for decades.

Jul 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Bear activity reported on trail system near Columbia Falls

Take note!

Jul 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Montana MLLB awards funds to decrease predation

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Livestock Loss Board, an attached agency of the Montana Department of Livestock, is awarding $58,429 in […]

Jul 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

Canyon Ferry Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 7.3.26

Canyon Ferry's water level is rising due to recent rains, benefiting both walleye and trout fishing. Anglers report walleye sizes between 12" to 14", with effective bait colors being dark with lighter bellies. Trout are very active, particularly at water temperatures of 62 to 64°F. Inflow is 6500cfs, and the lake level is 87.3% full.

Jul 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

New Management Rules for Mountain Lions in Southwest Montana

Montana’s Fish and Wildlife Commission just shook up the rules for the upcoming mountain lion hunting seasons, mainly focusing on […]

Jun 29, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Bitterroot River Fishing Update 6.28.26

The Bitterroot river is experiencing high water levels due to late-season snowmelt and rainfall, affecting fishing conditions. Despite challenges, trout are active, hiding along banks and in quieter areas. Strategies include using heavy nymphs in the morning, targeting hatching insects midday, and fishing caddis at dusk for best results.

Jun 28, 2026 · Angela Montana

Concealed Carry Debate: Safety vs. Safetyless Pistols

The concealed carry community is divided over the necessity of external safety mechanisms on firearms. Traditionalists favor them for added security, while minimalist purists argue they can hinder timely response in emergencies. Understanding the nuances of both perspectives is essential, as personal training and comfort levels play critical roles in this debate.

Jun 24, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Gov. Gianforte on Oregon Measure to Ban Hunting and Fishing: “That’s Absolutely Crazy”

“Here in Montana, hunting and fishing is integral to our way of life. To all those Oregonians who want to outlaw hunting and fishing, please stay out of Montana.” -Gov. Gianforte

Jun 19, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Forest Service Proposes First National Policy for Recreational Climbing on Public Lands 

The U.S. Forest Service will publish a proposed climbing directive in the Federal Register and initiate a 30-day public comment period.

Jun 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Online Registration for Game Damage Hunts Opens June 15

Starting June 15, Montana hunters can register online for the annual Game Damage Hunt Roster through MyFWP, aimed at curbing damage from deer, elk, and antelope. Registration runs until July 15, with an additional roster for bison. Hunters must choose one district and may not be guaranteed a hunting opportunity.

Jun 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

How to Properly Acclimate for High-Altitude Climbing

Climbers face severe risks in the "death zone" of Everest, at 26,000 feet, where thin air makes survival difficult. Altitude sickness can lead to serious health issues when the body cannot adapt quickly enough. Acclimatization and a gradual climb are essential, as even experienced climbers are not immune to its dangers.

Jun 1, 2026 · Angela Montana

NOTICE OF SPRING BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMUs 300, 301, 319, 580

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that hunting districts 300, 301, 319, and 580 will close for all black bear hunting due to exceeding a 37% female harvest. The closure will take effect one-half hour after sunset on June 3, 2026.

May 30, 2026 · Kamp Cook

Montana Outdoor Podcast – FWP Director Christy Clark Talks Corner Crossing

This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with the Director of Montana Fish, Wildlife and […]

May 29, 2026 · Angela Montana

The End of the Casual Drive-Thru Whitetail: Why Region 6 Just Placed a Deadline on Your Fall Plans

For years, hunting antlerless white-tailed deer in Montana’s Region 6 followed a familiar, comfortable rhythm. You’d pack your gear, drive […]

May 28, 2026 · Angela Montana

Body Found in Flathead Lake Near Bigfork

The waters of Flathead Lake are usually where we go to find a piece of ourselves—to catch a rising trout, […]

May 26, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Fall moisture, mild winter fuel increases in observed mule deer across southeast MT

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.

May 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Catching Memorial Day Memories

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

May 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Western Montana Fly Fishing Report – Week of May 19, 2026 | Lightweight Fly Shop

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.

May 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Have opinions on fishing? FWP wants your two cents.

Montana FWP is seeking public input on the 2027–2028 fishing regulations, featuring 41 proposals. Anglers can participate by attending a meeting on May 13, joining online sessions on May 26, or submitting comments via email or mail before the May 31 deadline. Share your insights to influence fishing rules.

May 5, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Texas man sentenced for trafficking eagles

Co-defendant Simon Paul, Branson, and others, hunted and killed eagles on the Flathead Indian Reservation and elsewhere. In total, approximately 3,600 birds were killed, including eagles. They then illegally sold the eagles on the black market for significant sums of cash across the United States and elsewhere.

May 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Missouri River: May 2026 Status Report

May fishing on the Mo favors afternoon outings with clear, low waters. Focus on dry flies for caddis hatches and use stealth, precision, and simple subsurface patterns for success.

May 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

2026 Elk Hunting Changes in Region 1

Region 1 hunters face new rules for antlerless elk: B-Tags are now private-land only, PTHFV permits no longer cover antlerless elk, and archery hunting for cow elk is discontinued to reduce harvest pressure.

Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Missed the draw? Montana’s nonresident backup list opens May 1

Montana’s Nonresident Alternate’s List opens for a second chance at hunting tags from May 1 to June 1. Join for free, with no risk to preference points, and wait for possible openings.

Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

The “Upgraded Childhood” Comfort Bowl: Smoked Fish Mac ’n Cheese

The Smoked Fish Mac recipe transforms childhood comfort food into an adult gourmet dish, combining smoked fish, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy topping, perfect for cold weather and easy preparation.

Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana

Series of Montana poaching crimes leads to lifetime loss of hunting and fishing privileges for Tennessee man

Apr 21, 2026 3:54 PM HAMILTON– Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens report that Jerry “Trey” Truitt III of Tennessee […]

Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

A Montana Pheasant Hunt Turned Grizzly

Imagine waking up thinking about bagging a few pheasants and ending the day with 320 stitches and a crazy story […]

Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Old-School Gear vs. Modern Tech: A Showdown

The Day Modern Tech Met Old-School Iron In the battle between the 21st century’s most advanced communication tool and a […]

Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP Draw Results: Check Your Deer and Elk Permits

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released the results for deer, elk, and nonresident combination licenses. Hunters can check results online or by phone, with upcoming application deadlines approaching.

Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana

Spring Woods Stereotypes: The 4 Faces of Turkey Season

From old-school purists to aggressive stalkers, spring turkey season brings out every type of hunter. Discover the four distinct archetypes you'll encounter in the timber and how they fill tags.

Apr 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Heavier Metal: The 2026 Guide to Not Missing That Tom

Outdoor Life’s Alex Robinson reveals that while pricey TSS loads dominate at 60 yards, "the shooter is almost always the weakest part" and high-tech ammo can't replace old-fashioned woodsmanship.

Apr 11, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Montana U.S. Senator Sheehy makes an emergency landing in Madison County

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an emergency aircraft landing this afternoon involving a privately-operated plane […]

Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Wednesday Morning Marmot: Why We’re All Just Large Rodents in Business Casual

We’ve all been there. It’s 9:01 AM on a Monday…or a Wednesday, appropriately. You have your coffee in one hand […]

Mar 30, 2026 · Angela Montana

Gone but Not Forgotten: A NW Montana Hunter’s Final Trophy

Tom Welch clears the air on a legendary Northwest Montana whitetail. This "buck of a lifetime" carries a tragic weight, as the hunter passed away the same night he harvested it.

Mar 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fishing Strategy Insights from March 25, 2026 by Fins and Feathers

Trout are currently inactive in fast currents, preferring calm areas. Successful fishing requires precise, clean drifts with deeper nymphs and smaller streamers. Focus on lazy water for better results.