Hunting

Coyote Chases Boy: A Front Yard Scare

Feb-26-26 by Angela Montana

A coyote chased a 3-year-old boy in Pasadena, but his mother’s scream scared it away. This incident highlights the importance of being vigilant around wildlife, even in residential areas.

Elk Hoof Disease Explained: How TAHD Spreads, What Researchers Know, and Why Hunters Are Worried

Feb-25-26 by Angela Montana

Elk hoof disease (TAHD) is a painful, polymicrobial infection that leaves elk lame and struggling to walk. First detected in Southwest Washington in the late 1990s, it surged after 2007–2008 and has spread into parts of Oregon, Idaho, and California. With no vaccine or treatment for wild elk and many unanswered questions about transmission and vulnerability, hunters and wildlife managers across the West—especially in nearby states like Montana—are watching closely.

Montana Closes Male Mountain Lion Season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 After Sunset (Feb. 24, 2026)

Feb-23-26 by Angela Montana

Montana’s Fish & Wildlife Commission ordered the male mountain lion season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 to close one-half hour after sunset on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. Hunters should check current quota status before heading out.

Montana Hunting Licenses Go on Sale March 1: What Opens, What Changed This Year, and What to Check Before You Buy

Feb-23-26 by Angela Montana

March 1 is Montana’s “opening day for paperwork”: licenses go on sale and special draw applications open. With multiple rule changes tied to the 2025 Legislature and the Fish and Wildlife Commission, this is the year to double-check requirements before you buy—don’t assume it’s the same as last season.

Montana LMU 680 Closing to Female Mountain Lion Hunting After Sunset (Feb. 23, 2026) — What to Know

Feb-22-26 by Angela Montana

By order of the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission, LMU 680 will close to all hunting of female mountain lions one-half hour after sunset on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. Get the effective time/date, what’s changing, and where to check official quota status on Montana FWP.

Life-Saving Skills You Can Learn: Downrigger Dale Interviews Instructor Racheal Vargas

Feb-21-26 by Angela Montana

On the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale talks with instructor Racheal Vargas (Montana K9 Safety and Montana Health & Safety Training) about practical, life-saving skills you can learn through training for individuals and groups—including preparation to help friends, family, and even pets in emergencies.

Montana Closes Female Mountain Lion Harvest in LMU 320 & LMU 121 After Sunset Feb. 21, 2026 (Quota Update)

Feb-20-26 by Angela Montana

Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission announces female mountain lion harvest closes in LMU 320 and LMU 121 one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, as part of the state’s quota system to support healthy lion populations and sustainable hunting opportunity.

Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Parts Capped Over Again, But Ice Still Thin & Unpredictable (Lakeridge Update)

Feb-20-26 by Angela Montana

Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop reports parts of Fort Peck Lake have capped over again, but conditions remain thin, snow-covered, and unpredictable. Snow can hide cracks and slush, and new capped ice may meet older unstable ice—use extra caution, even in bays that have stayed frozen.

Montana Hunter Ed Registration Is Opening Now: Grab a Spring Seat Before the Summer Rush

Feb-18-26 by Angela Montana

More than 15 hunter and bowhunter education courses across north-central Montana are open or about to open for registration. Spring is the easiest time to secure a spot, with both classroom and online options available. Don’t wait until late summer or fall, when seats get competitive and classes fill up fast.

He Tagged a 170-Inch Alabama Whitetail Legally—Then the Internet Sparked Poaching Rumors and Calls to Game Wardens

Feb-18-26 by Angela Montana

DC Tabscott’s 170-inch-plus Alabama buck went viral fast—and so did the accusations. After he posted the deer online, strangers claimed poaching and trespassing, tracked down landowners, and even contacted game wardens. His story is a blunt reminder: hunt legally, get permission in writing, and document everything—because the real chaos can start after you hit “post.”

Fox Haas Dies at 95: Legendary Turkey Hunter, Mossy Oak Patriarch, and Mississippi Conservation Force

Feb-17-26 by Angela Montana

Fox Haas, the celebrated turkey hunter and conservation advocate, has died at 95. From a 75-season run (with only two missed years during tuberculosis) to helping spur Mississippi turkey reintroductions and inspiring Mossy Oak’s roots, Haas leaves a legacy that shaped spring woods for generations.

February Fishing Report: Missouri River Strategies

Feb-16-26 by Angela Montana

The Missouri River fishing is improving despite some wind, with nymphing and midges being effective. Focus on subsurface techniques and smaller streamers for success during winter outings.

The Dramatic Dating Ritual of Bald Eagles

Feb-13-26 by Angela Montana

Bald Eagles engage in a dramatic courtship ritual called “cartwheeling,” where they lock talons and freefall, testing their compatibility and strength to ensure only the most committed pairs breed.

Easy Cheesy Venison Bombs Recipe

Feb-12-26 by Angela Montana

As hunting season approaches, families can utilize leftover venison by making cheesy venison bombs, a simple and flavorful dish combining ground venison, cheese, and bacon for a delicious meal.

Captivating Taxidermy: The Art of Realistic Wildlife Displays

Feb-12-26 by Angela Montana

A striking black bear mount on a loft railing showcases expert taxidermy craftsmanship. This art form has evolved, capturing lifelike motion and personality, blending biology and sculpture since the 1800s.

Montana Closes Female Mountain Lion Harvest in LMU 320 & LMU 121 After Sunset Feb. 21, 2026 (Quota Update)

Feb-20-26 by Angela Montana

Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission announces female mountain lion harvest closes in LMU 320 and LMU 121 one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, as part of the state’s quota system to support healthy lion populations and sustainable hunting opportunity.

Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Parts Capped Over Again, But Ice Still Thin & Unpredictable (Lakeridge Update)

Feb-20-26 by Angela Montana

Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop reports parts of Fort Peck Lake have capped over again, but conditions remain thin, snow-covered, and unpredictable. Snow can hide cracks and slush, and new capped ice may meet older unstable ice—use extra caution, even in bays that have stayed frozen.

Montana Hunter Ed Registration Is Opening Now: Grab a Spring Seat Before the Summer Rush

Feb-18-26 by Angela Montana

More than 15 hunter and bowhunter education courses across north-central Montana are open or about to open for registration. Spring is the easiest time to secure a spot, with both classroom and online options available. Don’t wait until late summer or fall, when seats get competitive and classes fill up fast.

He Tagged a 170-Inch Alabama Whitetail Legally—Then the Internet Sparked Poaching Rumors and Calls to Game Wardens

Feb-18-26 by Angela Montana

DC Tabscott’s 170-inch-plus Alabama buck went viral fast—and so did the accusations. After he posted the deer online, strangers claimed poaching and trespassing, tracked down landowners, and even contacted game wardens. His story is a blunt reminder: hunt legally, get permission in writing, and document everything—because the real chaos can start after you hit “post.”

Fox Haas Dies at 95: Legendary Turkey Hunter, Mossy Oak Patriarch, and Mississippi Conservation Force

Feb-17-26 by Angela Montana

Fox Haas, the celebrated turkey hunter and conservation advocate, has died at 95. From a 75-season run (with only two missed years during tuberculosis) to helping spur Mississippi turkey reintroductions and inspiring Mossy Oak’s roots, Haas leaves a legacy that shaped spring woods for generations.

February Fishing Report: Missouri River Strategies

Feb-16-26 by Angela Montana

The Missouri River fishing is improving despite some wind, with nymphing and midges being effective. Focus on subsurface techniques and smaller streamers for success during winter outings.

Nearly $50,000 in fines, restitution imposed for illegal big horn sheep hunts on Salmon-Challis National Forest

Feb-16-26 by Moosetrack Megan

A defendant sold and facilitated Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep hunts in an area of the Salmon-Challis National Forest that is closed to commercial guiding.

Why Field Dressing Requires Full Focus

Feb-16-26 by Angela Montana

Hunting accidents happen. A twisted ankle in rough country. A close call with a falling branch. Even the occasional misplaced […]

Understanding Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Through History

Feb-13-26 by Angela Montana

Montana’s history encompasses a vibrant legacy shaped by diverse communities, emphasizing wildlife conservation and the state’s iconic landscapes, while educational efforts continue to promote responsible stewardship for future generations.

The Dramatic Dating Ritual of Bald Eagles

Feb-13-26 by Angela Montana

Bald Eagles engage in a dramatic courtship ritual called “cartwheeling,” where they lock talons and freefall, testing their compatibility and strength to ensure only the most committed pairs breed.

Easy Cheesy Venison Bombs Recipe

Feb-12-26 by Angela Montana

As hunting season approaches, families can utilize leftover venison by making cheesy venison bombs, a simple and flavorful dish combining ground venison, cheese, and bacon for a delicious meal.

Captivating Taxidermy: The Art of Realistic Wildlife Displays

Feb-12-26 by Angela Montana

A striking black bear mount on a loft railing showcases expert taxidermy craftsmanship. This art form has evolved, capturing lifelike motion and personality, blending biology and sculpture since the 1800s.

New Backcountry Camping Rules at Beartooth WMA

Feb-11-26 by Angela Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will no longer allow caching supplies at Beartooth Wildlife Management Area, enforcing a leave-no-trace policy starting May 15 for visitors during hunting season.

Enroll in Spring 2026 Montana Hunter Safety Classes

Feb-10-26 by Angela Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks offers various hunter education options this spring, including in-person classes and online courses, required for hunters born after January 1, 1985. Classes fill quickly.

Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow

Feb-09-26 by Angela Montana

The 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow attracted 150 participants despite warm weather, featuring competitions and prizes, including a $2,000 win for a 5.34-pound pike and free rods for youth anglers.

Hunting and trapping for bobcats to close in Region 4 on Wednesday

Feb-09-26 by Angela Montana

Bobcat hunting and trapping in Montana Region 4 ends on February 11 at midnight. Hunters should check quota status online to ensure compliance with regulations before the season closes.

Hunt Ends in Close Call With Wounded Deer

Feb-08-26 by Angela Montana

A hunter’s close call with a wounded buck is a powerful reminder that recovery can be dangerous and patience matters. Never assume an animal is dead—safety must always come first.

12 Creative Duct Tape Uses for Fishing Trips

Feb-06-26 by Angela Montana

Duct tape is an invaluable fishing tool, offering twelve innovative uses such as repairing gear, waterproofing shoes, securing items, and improving grip, making it essential for any fishing trip.