Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has opened a lottery for three commercial fishing permits on the upper and West Fork of the Bitterroot River, accepting applications until May 18, 2026.

Don Wilkins reports excellent fishing at Fort Peck, with walleye actively biting in shallow waters. Anglers should use jigs, plastics, and crankbaits as water temperatures rise this season.

In early May, the Missouri River buzzes with fishing activity, showcasing fluctuating traffic and various hatches. While nymphing conditions remain strong, streamer fishing is less favorable, highlighting water concerns for the future.

BRETT FRENCH | bfrench@billingsgazette.com Interest in a once-controversial program that gives free elk tags to landowners to encourage them to allow public […]

New details about the bears and victims involved in a bear attack earlier this week in Yellowstone. The investigation continues.

The victim was located about 2.5 miles up the Mt. Brown Trail approximately 50 feet off the trail in a densely wooded area with downed timber. His injuries are consistent with those sustained by a bear encounter.

While snowpack conditions across much of the western United States remains uniformly poor, the snowpack across Montana watersheds paints a more nuanced picture.

Bill Saunders, a Washington-based waterfowl call maker and serious walleye hunter, recently learned that one man’s “embarrassing” catch is another […]

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks has announced Hunter Education classes for May 2026, offering various formats to accommodate learning styles across multiple locations statewide.

Montana FWP is seeking public input on the 2027–2028 fishing regulations, featuring 41 proposals. Anglers can participate by attending a meeting on May 13, joining online sessions on May 26, or submitting comments via email or mail before the May 31 deadline. Share your insights to influence fishing rules.

In a Facebook group focused on Montana appreciation, members discussed their fears, primarily directed at outsiders, political divisions, and local dangers like wildlife and drivers, revealing their passionate views on the state.

The article discusses ongoing jurisdictional conflicts over fishing rights between the Lac du Flambeau tribe and state authorities in Wisconsin. As the tribe seeks to halt fishing to conserve walleye and muskies, tensions rise over who holds management power. The situation mirrors historical debates in Montana, questioning the efficacy of joint management models.

The 2026 Upper Missouri paddlefish season is ongoing, but low river flows are concentrating fish downstream. Anglers are adjusting strategies as snagging activity is expected to rise over weekends.

The Missouri River is currently at 3,210 cfs and around 50°F, ideal for fishing. Nymphing is effective, while dry fly fishing varies daily. Essential flies include olive/brown mayflies and brown caddis. Focus on achieving a natural drift rather than perfect casts and maintain respectful space among fellow anglers for a better experience.

Tick season is peaking across Montana right now. Here's what hunters, anglers, and hikers need to know to stay safe this May.

Federal investigators target Big Meat monopolies as Montana ranchers demand fair prices. Justice Dept & USDA launch aggressive probe into beef processors.

Two big Yellowstone stories landed this week that Montana outdoor users will want on their radar — a serious grizzly […]

Co-defendant Simon Paul, Branson, and others, hunted and killed eagles on the Flathead Indian Reservation and elsewhere. In total, approximately 3,600 birds were killed, including eagles. They then illegally sold the eagles on the black market for significant sums of cash across the United States and elsewhere.

Search efforts are underway in Glacier National Park for Anthony Pollio, a 33-year-old man from Fort Lauderdale, Florida who has been missing since Sunday evening.

Using your fish finder effectively means understanding bass behavior, which is influenced by water temperature. The ideal strategies change as temperatures fluctuate. Monitor surface temps to guide your approach, but be ready to adjust your tactics based on deeper conditions. Flexibility and observation are key to successful fishing.

We often talk about firearm safety like it’s a chore—something we do because we “have to,” like paying taxes or […]

Idaho has passed House Bill 939, banning high-tech gear like drones and thermal scopes for big game hunting on public land to preserve fair chase. While this marks a significant shift in hunting regulations, exceptions exist for predator management, raising enforcement concerns. Neighboring Montana is closely observing Idaho's approach as it faces similar challenges.

On the afternoon of May 4, two hikers sustained injuries by one or more bears on the Mystic Falls Trail near Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park.

On May 8th, the 2026 Montana Cats tour begins with the 20th Annual Yellowstone Challenge at the Rhoadside Events Center in Huntley, MT. The event features socializing, rules briefing, and a fishing competition throughout Saturday. Participants are urged to check in and prepare for a weekend filled with excitement and memorable moments.

May fishing on the Mo favors afternoon outings with clear, low waters. Focus on dry flies for caddis hatches and use stealth, precision, and simple subsurface patterns for success.

The Fort Peck Dredge Cuts Fishing Access Site has restricted motorized vehicle access due to hazards on the dike road. Walk-in access remains available for anglers willing to carry their gear. Repairs are expected within weeks, so visitors should check for updates before heading out. Happy fishing!

The 2026 Spring Mack Days at Flathead Lake is thriving, with over 35,000 lake trout entries amid excellent weather. The event concludes on May 9, highlighting a $10,000 “Chase” fish prize.

Fort Peck West End Campground in Montana offers scenic lakeside camping from May 1 to September 30, with first-come, first-served availability and payment via Recreation.gov for a tranquil getaway.

Your working ranch dog could win Farm Bureau's 2027 Farm Dog of the Year! Nominate your four-legged farmhand for this prestigious competition with great rewards.

Region 1 hunters face new rules for antlerless elk: B-Tags are now private-land only, PTHFV permits no longer cover antlerless elk, and archery hunting for cow elk is discontinued to reduce harvest pressure.