The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced the closure of the spring black bear hunting season in Black Bear Management Unit 700 for hunters without hounds, effective May 23, 2026, at sunset. This action is due to reaching predetermined harvest quotas. Hunters should verify regulations for adjacent units and report any harvested bears.

Fort Peck Lake, known for its exceptional fishing, hosted the Crooked Creek Walleye Tournament where competitors caught over 100 pounds to win. Chris McFadden and Brem Phipps topped the leaderboard with 102.04 pounds. Interested anglers can register for the upcoming Montana Governor's Cup, featuring new events and diverse prizes, scheduled for July 2026.

As Memorial Day approaches, fishers have experienced success on the Firehole, Gibbon, and Madison rivers since May 1st. Snowpack levels are low but melting slowly, ensuring fishable conditions. Each river offers unique strategies for anglers, with notable hatches and species available. Early fishing opportunities may emerge this season.

Walleye are biting on VMC Mooneye jigs and Marble eye jigs, particularly near main lake points. Smallmouth are responding well to KVD crankbaits and jigs in shallow areas. Lakers are being caught in 15-35 feet using crankbaits, with some found deeper at 55-70 feet on specific jigs and paddletails.

On May 31st, Fort Peck, MT, will host the Trace’s Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic, a free event honoring Trace Louis. Starting at 10:00 AM, children will learn fishing skills, safety, and receive supplies, while enjoying outdoor activities. Community support aims to establish this as an annual tradition for families.

Paddlefish activity is increasing as Memorial Day approaches, with elevated river flows prompting movement in the upper Missouri. Biologist Cody Nagel reports that current flows are 7200 cfs, enhancing angling success. Anglers should expect busy conditions at the Fred Robinson Bridge, where catching paddlefish is on the rise.

The 2022 Stillwater River floods prompted extensive bank projects, harming fish habitats. Fisheries biologist Bryan Giordano warns of a 90% decline in fish populations due to human interventions and climate change impacts.

Montana's fishing report highlights good conditions on lakes and rivers, with notable bear activity closing areas. Effective flies include chironomids and mayfly nymphs. Stay cautious in bear territories.

Montana's spring weather fluctuates wildly, slowing high-country snowmelt and benefiting fisheries. Local lakes are reliable for clear water fishing, while rivers like the Flathead shift to fishable conditions.

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.

California prohibits bear spray in national parks due to the presence of only black bears, which are generally less aggressive. Hikers should instead use air horns or bells and practice good trail etiquette.

Rock Creek is currently flowing at 1,500 CFS and remains clear despite recent cold weather delaying the anticipated Salmonfly hatch. The focus now is on smaller insects like Blue Winged Olives and March Browns, particularly in the evenings. Successful fishing requires deep nymphing tactics, with safety precautions emphasized for wading and floating.

Talk about a hunting trip turning into a literal wash. In this vintage survival tale by Jerry Valentine (as told […]

Fort Peck Downstream Campground has returned to a positive state, with all issues resolved and a sense of normalcy restored. Visitors can expect a pleasant and enjoyable experience at the campground once more.

Spring has brought excellent fly fishing conditions to Fort Smith, Montana's Bighorn River, with stable flows and active trout. Anglers should prepare for successful hatches and varied fishing techniques this May.

A bat found inside a residential home has tested positive for rabies, marking the first rabies‑positive animal reported in Flathead County in 2026. With summer approaching and bat activity increasing, the likelihood of human and pet encounters also rises.

Recent data indicates improved prospects for the summer Salmon season, particularly for Sawtooth Chinook stocks, prompting Idaho officials to assess potential fisheries and harvest shares in the coming days.

On the evening of May 16, a hunter shot and killed a male grizzly bear in defense of life after it charged him and his young son from a short distance away while they were hunting black bears near the Cave Falls Road on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest outside of Ashton. 

Fort Peck Downstream Campground is experiencing a water supply outage due to a broken potable waterline, affecting several facilities including campsites and the dump station. The restroom in the group loop area remains operational. Maintenance crews are working on repairs, and visitors are advised to bring their own water during this time.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is accepting applications for the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program until June 19, offering up to $1.8 million for projects enhancing local ecosystems.

The Flathead Valley is in "big water" season, presenting challenges for larger rivers but opportunities in smaller streams with active salmonflies. Anglers should prioritize safety while fishing high flows.

Expert angler John Way emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of Montana's Salmon Fly hatch to catch trout. His tactics recommend using smaller flies and fishing below the surface for better success.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is collaborating with Montana State University on trout research in the upper Jefferson River basin, revealing mixed trout population growth in recent sampling and offering rewards for reporting tagged fish.

A Montana woman discovered a swarm of garter snakes emerging from her home's foundation, highlighting the issue of wildlife seeking winter shelter in residential areas due to human development.

Montana cattle markets surge 14.7% this week despite drought challenges. Mixed signals create opportunities for savvy ranchers. Get the full story.

Despite poor weekend weather keeping most anglers away, those who ventured out found success catching rainbows using various techniques at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs.

David Schmetterling highlights Montana's native crayfish, emphasizing the enjoyment of catching and preparing them. His recipe offers a flavorful, intimate boil experience, balancing tradition with personal style.

Duck calls are designed to mimic specific sounds ducks recognize. Ducks' auditory systems are sensitive to unique frequencies, enabling them to differentiate between safe and dangerous sounds, influencing hunting success.

There has been some concern regarding water elevation levels at Fresno Reservoir and whether conditions will accommodate the Fresno Walleye Tournament scheduled for June 12–13, 2026. Click here for more information!

Here are final results for the the Crooked Creek Walleye Tournament based out of the marina at the dam on Fort Peck, where it took more than 100 pounds to win!