Jul 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why Retrievers Are Born to Fetch
Retrievers have an innate drive to fetch due to centuries of selective breeding, which embeds this behavior in their DNA. Their unique trait, known as a "soft mouth," allows them to carry delicate objects without damage, reflecting their original purpose of retrieving game for hunters. This drives their comedic and endearing antics.
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 · montanaoutdoor
Guide Puts Clients on the Biggest Bull on the Mountain After 3 Hard Days in Southwest Montana
A guided elk hunt in a Southwest Montana general unit ends with the biggest bull on the mountain after 3 hard days of searching.
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 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
8 Weeks Out: Montana Bowhunter’s Elk Conditioning and Tune-Up Plan
Montana archery elk opens in early September. Here’s an 8-week physical and gear prep plan built for high-elevation backcountry hunting.
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ditch the Fly Rod, Grab the Glass: Why July 4th is the Real Start of Deer Season
In Montana, the key to successful early-season archery hunting begins in July, according to Scott Bestul's feature on Bob Borowiak. By avoiding reliance on trail cameras and utilizing long-range spotting methods, hunters can better scout mature deer patterns. Borowiak emphasizes the importance of wide-ranging scouting rather than focusing on individual bucks, advising preparation to increase chances of success come fall.
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 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
8 Weeks Out: Your Body and Bow Are Already Behind
Montana archery elk opens in early September. Here’s exactly how to spend the next 8 weeks getting your body and bow ready for the mountains.
Jul 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Stop Burning Your First 48 Hours — How to Find Elk Faster This Fall in Montana
Most Montana elk hunters waste the first two days of a hunt. This system from Backbone Unlimited shows you how to stop doing that.
Jul 10, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Human remains found near Revenue Flats identified
The victim had been missing for decades.
Jul 10, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Opening Day Elk Confiscated — What Montana Game Wardens Found
A Montana hunter’s elk gets confiscated on opening day. Here’s what the wardens found — and what every elk hunter needs to know before heading out.
Jul 9, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Stop Losing Your Target in the Scope When It Matters Most
Lost a bull in your scope at the worst moment? Montana Wild’s latest tip fixes the most frustrating mistake hunters make in the field.
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 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Bear Hunters and Trichinosis: What You Need to Know Before Cooking Your Bear Meat
Montana bear hunters face real trichinosis risk. Here’s what the CDC, USDA, and Montana FWP say about cooking bear meat safely this season.
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 […]
Jul 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
How an Old Video Cost One Hunter His Job and His Internet Privileges
A Wyoming man named Aron Snyder is currently playing damage control after a cringey, viral video resurfaced showing him getting […]
Jun 30, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Inside RMEF Headquarters: What the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Actually Does for Montana Elk Country
Gear company Eberlestock visits RMEF headquarters in Missoula to show how the foundation protects Montana elk habitat and public land access.
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 26, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Volunteers Hit Flathead Ridge Hard to Open Elk Country for Hunters
RMEF volunteers and Montana Knife Company crew tackle a tough habitat project on Flathead Ridge — here’s why it matters for elk hunters this fall.
Jun 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
60 Days Out: How to Scout Your Limited-Entry Archery Elk Unit Before September
Draw results are in. If you’re holding a limited-entry archery elk tag, here’s how to spend the next 60 days scouting smarter before September.
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 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Most Montana Hunters Never Learned This Trigger Technique — Here’s Why It Matters
Montana Wild's new Shoot Better Series tackles the trigger mistake most hunters make. Fix it before elk season opens this fall.
Jun 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
You Drew a Limited Entry Archery Elk Tag: Your 60-Day Scouting Blueprint
Draw results are in. Here’s how to use the next 60 days to build a real kill plan before Montana’s August archery elk opener.
Jun 20, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
You Drew a Montana Archery Elk Tag: Build Your Scouting Plan Now
Drew a Montana limited-entry archery elk tag? The 60-90 day window before August is your most critical scouting period. Here’s your action plan.
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 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Antelope Hunting in Eastern Montana — Skull Bound TV Captures Everything We Love About This Hunt
Skull Bound TV heads to eastern Montana for pronghorn. Here's what makes this hunt special — plus tags, tactics, and public land access tips for Montana hunters.
Jun 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Can Arkansas Hunters Really Prepare for a Montana Spring Bear Hunt? Deadhaul Outdoors Finds Out
Arkansas hunters attempt to get ready for a brutal Montana spring bear hunt. Here's why the mountains don't care how hard you trained.
Jun 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Wildlife Policy Battle: Sportsmen Defend Hunting Traditions
Wildlife policy is increasingly determined by ballot measures, with sportsmen defending hunting rights after Colorado's Proposition 127 failed. A new initiative, Prop 302, aims to constitutionally secure hunting and fishing rights in Colorado, preventing anti-hunting legislation. This follows trends in 24 states that have enacted similar protections, reflecting a growing movement to safeguard outdoor traditions.
Jun 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hilarious Tips for First-Time Hunting Adventures
The post humorously depicts the challenges of first-time hunting, contrasting romantic notions with harsh realities. It highlights the confusion and anxiety rookies face in the woods, suggesting a lighthearted video guide that teaches seven essential hand signals to enhance communication and minimize errors, improving the overall hunting experience.
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.
Jun 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Oregon Might Go Full Vegan (Legally Speaking)
Oregon is facing a significant cultural clash over Initiative Petition 28 (IP28), known as the "PEACE Act." Animal rights activists aim to ban hunting, fishing, and livestock ranching, classifying standard practices as criminal offenses. Critics argue it could harm conservation efforts and disproportionately impact local communities. The initiative, despite its ambitions, likely faces defeat in November.
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 · Angela Montana
The Largest Expansion of Outdoor Access in US History
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.
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 […]