The Ruby River is currently experiencing fluctuating water levels due to irrigation and summer heat, leading to “Hoot Owl” fishing restrictions from 2 PM to midnight to protect stressed trout. July may still offer good fishing, especially with various insect hatches. Specific regulations apply in different river sections.
Locals in Montana oppose US Critical Materials’ plan for an 11.3-square-mile rare-earth mine at the West Fork Bitterroot River, a prime fishing and hunting area. Concerns include noise from heavy trucks, potential ecological disaster, and negative impacts on wildlife. Despite community opposition, the mining company is advancing its proposal.
Flathead Lake is Montana’s crown jewel for fishing, wildlife, and outdoor recreation. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of every season.
Fort Peck’s fishing can be slow, particularly for salmon. Get the Net Outfitters LLC suggests a solution: while trolling for Kings, drop a jig when marking fish in the top 20 feet. This method often results in catching more Pike than traditional Pike fishing, adding excitement to slow days.
The Flyhards ride horses deep into unnamed Montana wilderness for wild trout. Here’s why some fishing holes are worth keeping off the map.
In southwest Montana, warming river temperatures are leading to increased fishing restrictions. The Madison River is completely closed to fishing from July 15, and hoot-owl restrictions apply to several rivers, prohibiting fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight. These measures aim to protect fish as high temperatures can cause stress and mortality.
The 40th Annual Hell Creek Fishing Tournament will take place from July 25-26, 2026, at Hell Creek Recreation Area. Teams can enter for $200, competing for daily cash prizes and side pots for the largest catches. This event promises excitement and lasting memories for all fishing enthusiasts.
A drift boat guide breaks down 3 fly selection mistakes killing your catch rate on Montana’s blue-ribbon rivers this summer.
The upper Salmon River Chinook fishery will close at the end of fishing hours on July 15th due to anglers exceeding the harvest limit, with 191 adult Chinook caught this season. Idaho Fish and Game celebrates a successful season but urges anglers to act quickly for one last chance before the closure.
Canyon Ferry offers excellent walleye fishing in Ponds 2 and 3, using bottom bouncers and various lure colors. Hauser is productive for walleye near the Eldorado Dredge Piles, with rainbow fishing thriving below Canyon Ferry Dam. Holter sees strong rainbow catches early, along with some walleye and northern pike near weed beds.
Golden stonefly season is peaking on Montana rivers. Learn to tie an extended body pattern that matches the hatch and fools big trout.
Overview & River Conditions According to Madison River Outfitters‘ latest fishing report, waters on the Madison River are holding steady, […]
