Hebgen Lake is largely ice-free as of March 30, 2026, signaling an early spring. Unlike some years with ongoing ice fishing, only bar ice cubes remain frozen, hinting at warm weather and potential paddleboarding soon.

The Stillwater River is returning to cool spring conditions after a brief warm spell. Fishing improves gradually as water temperatures rise, with peak productivity typically after spring runoff.

Lewis and Clark County warns of an upcoming closure of the Missouri River Bridge on April 8, 2026. A public meeting will discuss details and updates on local projects.

Rivers are blown out. Here are 7 essential fly fishing books with Montana roots to read while you wait out spring runoff.

Montana FWP hosts an April 9 open house in Havre to share updates on Fresno Reservoir fisheries management, 2025 netting results, and 2026 Milk River water forecasts.

Canyon Ferry is post-ice-out and walleye are stacking near submerged Christmas tree structure. Here's exactly where to target them this spring.

A $1.2 million project will add 30 miles of new trails near Seeley Lake by 2029, opening vast backcountry for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Shed antler hunters can register online April 1-19 to access the Blackfoot-Clearwater WMA by vehicle when it opens at noon May 15. Registration is free and unlimited.

On May 9, 1978, a logging crew discovered the partial remains of a skeletonized young male near Williams, Oregon, in the area of Holcomb Peak. They were just identified as a missing Montana man.

The 2026 Spring Mack Days event has harvested over 10,500 lake trout, with Kolton Turner leading and "Chase," a $10,000 tagged trout, still uncaught. Fishing continues until May 9th.

Tom Welch clears the air on a legendary Northwest Montana whitetail. This "buck of a lifetime" carries a tragic weight, as the hunter passed away the same night he harvested it.

Montana cattle markets surge with CME futures up $13.45! Strong demand despite light trading. Get the latest prices and trends affecting your ranch profits this week.

The Gallatin is currently playing a bit of a “wait and see” game after the recent warm spell gave the […]

Researchers found that mountain goat numbers in the park dropped sharply over a 12-year period.

The XXII World Ice Fishing Championship 2026 concluded in Sweden with Team USA finishing 10th. Their experience highlighted growth and camaraderie despite the competition, showcasing the passion for ice fishing.

Target Montana's top 5 reservoirs for prime walleye fishing in late March before April's snowmelt turns clear waters muddy and shuts down this golden pre-runoff window.

Zebra mussels threaten Montana's top fisheries in 2026. Here's which waters are at risk and what FWP's boat checkpoints mean for you this spring.

Spring bear season opens April 15. Here's what science and trail cam footage reveal about wolf-grizzly showdowns — and what it means for your safety this spring.

Cabbage transforms when filled with savory ground venison, rice, and spices, creating hearty Venison Cabbage Rolls. This healthy dish is both comforting and flavorful, perfect for utilizing wild game.

If you’ve been keeping a close eye on the riverbanks in Southwest Montana, it’s time to shift gears. By order […]

A seasoned hiker's familiar trek nearly turned deadly due to a surprise encounter with grizzlies. Quick thinking and a timely pause to film saved him from disaster. Bear safety tips are emphasized.

In a -25°F Minnesota deep freeze, a 900-pound world-record elk famously somersaulted into the muck. Despite a daring 2×4 rescue, the "Mud Bull" remains the state’s most tragic, 462-inch gymnastics fail.

Legal battles threaten sage grouse habitat and hunting access across Montana's eastern prairie. What upland bird hunters need to know now.

Montana's spring bear season is almost here. Learn how to age black bears on the hoof before you pull the trigger this spring.

Current Holter Lake fishing report: post ice-out walleye, perch & trout action, dam tailwater conditions, and exactly where fish are holding right now.

Bozeman's 'No Kings' protest drew massive crowds over public lands fears. Here's what it means for your elk, deer, and upland access this fall.

An Idaho Fish and Game commissioner faces 7 criminal hunting charges. Here's why Montana hunters should be paying close attention right now.

Sentinel Metals is advancing the Columbia Gold Project in Montana, proposing extensive drilling to explore gold deposits. This has sparked environmental concerns regarding its proximity to the Blackfoot River, prompting public debate.

Last week on the Montana Outdoor Radio Show, we talked about that sweet spot right before runoff. Reports are coming […]

Late March is one of those sneaky good times to fish Montana. Runoff hasn’t fully kicked in yet, but warmer […]

In this episode of the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale interviews Josh Parrow, a skilled Diesel Technician, sharing insights on diesel engine choices, maintenance tips, and historical context.

Kokanee Quinn's venison Horseshoe sandwich transforms a classic recipe by replacing ham with venison and adding a decadent beer cheese sauce, creating a unique culinary experience.

Spring brings fishing opportunities as local waters awaken. The Macman’s March 27 report outlines hotspots like Yellow Bay and the Delta, while highlighting the impending salmon season at Lake Mary Ronan.

Montana's state trust lands provide recreation and fund public schools. The DNRC seeks genuine public input on rules affecting land use through a short anonymous survey, urging authentic perspectives over scripted responses.

A proposal to donate an 82-acre island in the Yellowstone River to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks aims to preserve its wildlife habitat, named Pine Siskin fishing access site, for public benefit.

Fort Peck is thawing, with Duck Creek and Marina bays mostly ice-free. Caution is advised due to floating ice and debris. Fishing for walleye and pike is improving but remains inconsistent.