Don Wilkins' Fort Peck fishing report highlights successful catches of walleye, pike, smallmouth, and lake trout. Walleye thrive on crankbaits and bottom bouncers at 25-35 feet; pike prefer deeper trolling. Smallmouth are found at main lake points, while lake trout action improves in the afternoon at deeper flats.

A trail cam left running for a full year in the Rockies captured elk, mule deer, and seasonal shifts that every Montana backcountry hunter should see.

Two weeks in and bulls are spooked. Here’s how to adjust your approach and close the distance on pressured Montana archery elk right now.

The Clark Fork River experienced improved fishing conditions post-Labor Day, with flows around 1,200 cfs. Cooler waters have made trout more active, encouraging anglers to use smaller dries and various nymphs. The segment from Weigh Station to Sha-Ron is closed until October 31st, as fall fishing strategies begin to evolve.

A legislative panel in Montana discussed concerns that affluent hunters are exploiting hunting programs to obtain nonresident elk tags. Evidence includes wealthy buyers subdividing large ranches to gain landowner preference. Recommendations to address inequities include waiting periods for land purchases and limiting permits for nonresident landowners to ensure fairness for residents.

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that the Black Bear Management Unit 411 will be closed to all black bear hunting starting one-half hour after sunset on September 12, 2026, for the remainder of the archery season.

As fall approaches, the Bitterroot River's fishing conditions are improving. Early mornings favor Tricos, while midday requires switching to hoppers and terrestrials. Streamer fishing is also enhancing, with effective patterns to try. Anglers should prepare for exciting fall hatches, making September an opportune time for fishing enthusiasts.

LINCOLN – Two young adult grizzly bears were euthanized this week after a series of conflicts with chicken coops, grain, and […]

Montana wardens Bill Copen and Kyle Miller reveal a 25-year elk decoy operation near Cely Lake — and what it means for hunters in Region 2.

Hunter Mike Stolt shares a reflective experience after tagging a bull and questioning his future solo hunts due to his age and physical condition. Meeting 76-year-old Mr. Preston, who still actively hunted despite health challenges, reignited Stolt's passion for the mountains, emphasizing the present moment over physical limitations.

Master the decoy game for Montana pronghorn archery hunts. Learn how to beat their 320-degree vision and get within bow range on open prairie.

In late summer, Stillwater offers clear conditions optimal for trout fishing with flows at 382 CFS and temperatures at 61.5°F. Early mornings favor caddis and midges, while afternoons shift to terrestrials like hoppers and ants. As temperatures rise, switch to heavier nymphs, and look for BWOs in the evening for optimal catches.

A man in British Columbia was hit with a $27,000 penalty for intentionally feeding bears and coyotes near a popular […]

A Hamilton man who unlawfully stored a cache of firearms at his house was sentenced today to 24 months in prison, followed […]

A fundraiser has been launched to support a woman who was severely injured in a grizzly bear encounter in northwest […]

The Flathead National Forest announced today that the Dry Riverside Project has completed the planning process and required consultation with the release […]

Montana is examining the impact of nonresident hunters on local hunting experiences through the Montana Hunters First Act. New research indicates rising nonresident license sales, prompting a public survey to gather hunter perspectives. The findings will influence license allocations and future hunting regulations as FWP prepares its final report.

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting has been rescheduled to October 14, starting at 8 a.m. via Zoom. Topics include fishing regulations, grizzly bear releases, and motorized-use restrictions. Public comments are due by September 24, with virtual participation requiring registration by October 13.

Montana wildlife officials have closed black bear archery hunting in Bear Management Unit 520, effective September 10, 2026, at sunset. This closure includes all black bears and will last until the end of the archery-only season, as mandated by the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission.

Talk about showing up and accidentally rewriting the record book. According to an article from Outdoor Life, Illinois bowhunter Drew […]

The Gallatin River is currently offering excellent fishing conditions, particularly in the mornings, with the canyon and upper river areas being most productive. Trout are active due to cooler weather, responding well to hoppers, ants, and caddis. A dry-dropper setup is recommended, along with nymphing and exploring various dry-fly options.

Jackson Heino achieved an impressive feat by harvesting a Montana bull elk on his first archery hunt, showcasing his skills and dedication. Hunt Montana, a lifestyle brand promoting outdoor adventures, extends good wishes to all hunters this season, reminding them to hunt safely and stay updated with the Montana FWP regulations.

Montana’s elk depredation conflict is quietly eroding hunter access. Here’s what’s at stake for ranchers, public lands, and the hunters who depend on both.

September fishing is thriving across various locations, with walleye, rainbow trout, and kokanee actively biting. Key spots include Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter. Techniques vary from trolling to jigging with specific baits. The kokanee salmon snagging season is also open, allowing anglers to catch larger fish.

Montana’s archery elk season is in week two. Here’s how to escalate from cow calls to aggressive raking on pressured public land bulls.

The flyer provides age estimates for walleye based on size, noting that a 6–12 inch walleye may be 1–3 years old, while larger specimens can be significantly older. Growth varies due to environmental factors, and female walleyes tend to grow larger and live longer than males. Biologists use specialized methods for more accurate age determination.

The CampSage app revolutionizes campground booking in Montana by providing real-time availability across state parks and federal sites, including national forests and Glacier. It allows users to set cancellation alerts and browse nearly 5,000 campgrounds nationwide for free, eliminating the hassle of traditional campsite booking.

The Upper Madison River offers excellent fishing conditions as summer fades, according to a September 4, 2026 report by Big Sky Angler. Midday fishing is optimal, with an emphasis on terrestrials like hoppers and ants. The report suggests effective techniques and highlights the importance of adjusting fly selections as temperatures cool.

The Best Ever Bear Chili recipe by Allie Doran showcases ground bear meat as a flavorful and hearty option for chili. Combining bear with peppers, beans, tomatoes, beer, and spices, this dish shines through its simplicity and robust flavors. Cooking bear thoroughly is crucial due to potential parasites. Enjoy with toppings of choice.

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has declared the BLACK BEAR MANAGEMENT UNIT: 700 closed to all black bear hunting, effective one-half hour after sunset on September 9, 2026, for the remainder of the archery season.

As of August 6, 2026, the Bighorn River is in excellent condition with clear water at 1,500 CFS. Effective fishing techniques include using small midges in the morning and focusing on BWOs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Subtle approaches with 5X or 6X leaders are recommended, particularly in shaded areas and during evening hours.

A Montana game warden watched three hunters shoot a mule deer buck through his scope before walking down to ask one question. Here’s what happened.

A free outdoor skills open house at Glasgow Trap Club on September 15 will help young hunters, aged 10 and older, prepare for Montana’s youth pheasant and waterfowl weekends. From 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., participants can practice shooting, learn safety, and obtain hunting tips. All attendees receive a vest and cap.

In Western Montana, trout fishing proved challenging yet rewarding, with notable catches by anglers including a significant 20-inch cuttbow. Despite finicky conditions and variable success, expectations for improved fall mayfly hatches and cooler weather could enhance trout activity. Outfitter Tony Reinhardt shared insights on recent outings and fishing strategies.

WEST GLACIER, Mont. – Glacier National Park is implementing a temporary road closure of the alpine sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road. The closure […]

Northwest Montana elk hunters have a couple of rule changes to keep on the radar before grabbing the bow and […]