When fishing in Montana, remain vigilant of bears, which can easily traverse water. Understanding local wildlife is essential, as rivers and lakes act as travel corridors. To avoid bear confrontations, stay alert, avoid food sources, and carry bear spray. If an encounter occurs, identify yourself, stay calm, and avoid sudden movements.

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission invites public participation on wildlife management issues during a meeting on June 12, 2026, covering elk hunting, beaver relocation, and mountain lion regulations.

The June 5, 2026 report from Fins and Feathers highlights current fishing conditions around Bozeman. The Gallatin River is thriving, while the Upper Madison is slower. The Lower Madison remains the best option with active PMDs and nymphing. The Yellowstone shows improvement too. Essential flies include various nymphs and attractors.

The Missouri River is thriving for anglers after recent rains, with trout actively feeding. Mayflies and caddis flies are the main attractions, requiring skilled presentations to catch fish. As conditions improve, essential fly patterns are highlighted, while local eateries cater to fishing enthusiasts. The overall atmosphere in Craig is energetic and inviting for fishing.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hiring a full-time Maintenance Worker 2 in Havre. The role involves maintaining outdoor spaces and offers competitive pay, benefits, and flexible qualifications. Apply by June 21.

The Missouri River reservoirs are thriving with walleye and rainbow trout action, particularly in Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter. Conditions are excellent for diverse fishing opportunities this week.

Montana cattle markets see lighter volume but renewed grass demand after beneficial rains. Get the latest auction prices and market trends affecting your operation.

Warm weather invites outdoor activities, but also the risk of ticks. Discovering a tick should prompt swift removal using fine-tipped tweezers. Avoid folk remedies that could worsen the situation. Clean the bite area and dispose of the tick properly. Monitor for symptoms of infection, and see a doctor if needed.

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Cooking bear meat is easier than it seems. Its rich flavor enhances comfort foods, making it a great substitute for beef or pork. A simple lasagna recipe involves browning bear meat with garlic and onions, layering it with pasta, marinara, and cheese for a savory, satisfying meal with little effort.

In late May, cool, rainy weather improved fishing conditions in Yellowstone, invigorating rivers and triggering mayfly hatches. While warm conditions may diminish hatches, anglers can still find opportunities in the mornings and evenings. Lakes are thawing, expanding options for fishing. Awareness of bears is essential for safety in the park.

We’ve all seen internet arguments get out of hand, but usually, they don’t involve a Chicago sports radio icon, the […]

A 50-pound-plus bag set the pace on Day 1 of the Rock Creek Walleye Tournament at Fort Peck, Day 2 will be an epic battle! See Day 1 Results here!

Get all the up to date conditions and information from our correspondents across Montana. Conditions differ from one place to […]

Fishing reports from around Montana continued to improve and change, offering challenges and success to those informed of what to […]

This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale discusses Corner Crossing with Ryan Callaghan, President and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. Despite differing stances in a court case, both organizations share common ground. Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts, aiming for improved relationships between landowners and hunters.

Kokanee Quinn discovers a flavorful recipe for Spicy Grilled Perch with Charred Scallion, featuring sriracha and honey, perfect for enhancing freshwater cooking, ultimately elevating the culinary experience.

The Wards, accompanied by their dog Benneli, faced challenging weather during their fishing trip in Montana but transformed the experience into cherished memories. With determination and teamwork, they navigated the elements and enjoyed their time on the water, ultimately proving that great company can enhance any outing despite adverse conditions.

Donald Trump has revoked two 50-year-old regulations limiting off-road vehicle use on federal lands, deeming them outdated. This decision pleases off-road enthusiasts while alarming conservationists, who fear damage to vulnerable habitats. The debate centers on the balance between accessibility and preservation of natural environments amid a significant increase in off-road vehicle usage.

High water levels from recent rains are stabilizing, leading into an optimal fishing season in Missoula. With hatches of Salmonflies, Golden Stones, and Drakes approaching, conditions are favorable. The forecast shows continued cool weather, enhancing the prospects for anglers. Clear Creek Outfitters provides detailed river conditions and fishing insights.

A grizzly bear has taken over a section of the Point of Rocks Fishing Access Site in Montana, leading to a partial closure. Authorities advise avoiding the northern portion of the site and staying river right while floating past. The area will reopen once the bear leaves its meal.

This week at Fort Peck, challenging weather stirred up the lake, but angler Don Wilkins found success. Walleye fishing slowed, requiring jigs and crawlers in 15-20 feet. Northern pike remain aggressive in 10-30 feet, while lakers are deeper at 60-110 feet. Some salmon also caught in deeper areas.

Montana's Fish, Wildlife & Parks estimated 3.1 million acres of landlocked public land, slightly exceeding a private company's figure. Of this, 2.2 million acres are locked by private land, and 628,000 acres are accessible only by corner crossing. Discussions highlight the need for solutions to enhance public access.

It’s an unspoken rule of crafting that the worst thing to happen during a knitting session should be a dropped […]

Trace Louis Hilburn cherished the outdoors, particularly fishing and spending time with loved ones. In his memory, his mother Kayla initiated the Trace’s Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic to foster a love for nature among children. The inaugural event engaged 39 kids, teaching them skills while creating lasting family memories and community bonds.

The Blackfoot River's turbulent conditions have delayed the salmonfly event. High flows and cooling temperatures prompt advice for anglers to explore the Missouri River instead. As conditions improve, trout are found in slower waters, with nymphing recommended. Safety is key, emphasizing caution when approaching the river's edges.

Henry Winkler, famously known as the Fonz, is now a revered figure in the fly fishing community. He passionately advocates for the sport, viewing it as a mental retreat, and supports Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, aiding disabled veterans. His unique approach includes gently kissing caught trout before releasing them, showcasing his wholesome demeanor.

Montana's TroutCast is a groundbreaking web tool launched on June 1, 2026, which forecasts the impact of climate change on local trout populations. Combining data from experts, it offers seasonal and long-term predictions to help anglers adapt to drought conditions. Future expansions target other drought-prone regions in the American West.

To kick off Great Outdoors Month, the Forest Service is launching a new, single visitor-information mobile app, National Forests and Grasslands, now available for download as visitors plan their summer trips to recreation sites across the National Forest System.

In international news about zoonotic diseases, a Montana link. According to the criminal complaint, Vincent Munster, a citizen of the Netherlands, 53, is the Chief of the Virus Ecology Section, Laboratory of Virology at the Rocky Mountain Laboratory in Hamilton, Montana. Claude Kwe, a citizen of Cameroon, 38, is a research fellow in Munster’s section.