Mid-summer in Montana brings hot weather affecting fishing conditions. The Upper Madison is best fished early or late due to heat, with Epeorus flies proving effective. Lakes are challenging as trout are selective. Fish in Yellowstone National Park face closures, while the Gallatin thrives with grasshoppers. Avoid the muddy Northeast Corner.

Day two of a 3-day backcountry Montana fly fishing trip went sideways fast — here’s what happened when the wilderness pushed back.

Montana’s tournament fishing season is going strong, and many anglers are getting prepared for the Tournament of Kings next weekend. […]

Walleye are being caught using bottom bouncers and crawlers in 10-20 feet, with jigs also effective near mayfly hatches. Pike are abundant in various locations, favoring spoons and crankbaits in 8-15 feet. Salmon are scattered; successful lures include Flashers and flies, trolled at 2.1-2.2 speed.

The latest report from Hell Creek Marina highlights excellent walleye and bass fishing, with many anglers reaching their limits. However, northern pike are struggling in the calm, warm waters. A stiff wind is needed to cool the lake, or challenging conditions may persist into August.

The Bitterroot River is under Hoot Owl restrictions, prohibiting fishing from 2:00 PM to midnight due to high temperatures. Anglers should plan to fish early in the morning, using tactical strategies with specific flies, while prioritizing trout care. The focus should be on efficient fishing before the afternoon closure.

A YouTube spearfisher heads into northwest Montana’s murky waters hunting northern pike — and finds something he didn’t see coming.

Montana’s Big Hole River is currently experiencing warm water temperatures and declining flows, prompting “hoot owl” restrictions on midday fishing. Fishermen are advised to fish early, focusing on deeper pools and handling fish carefully. As summer progresses, expect Tricos and terrestrial fishing opportunities. Utilize a dry-dropper setup for best results.

The Boulder River is currently “low and gin clear,” making trout easily spooked. As of July 22, 2026, expect good hopper action and morning movements of spruce moths. Water levels will drop in August, leading to wadeable conditions. Late autumn may see migrating brown trout from Yellowstone. Prepare for a technical fishing experience.

Fort Peck Marina Outfitters welcomes Dana Lutz to their guide team. A seasoned angler with deep local knowledge, Dana recently placed 8th in the Montana Governor’s Cup. He offers fishing trips on a 2024 Warrior 2090 Tiller, equipped with advanced Garmin LiveScope electronics, along with sonar training. Book quickly!

Levi Johnson breaks down the best decoy dog breed for coyote hunting. Here’s what Montana predator hunters should know before adding a dog to their setup.

Montana archery elk season runs early Sept through mid-October. Here’s why your rut calling tactics will wreck an early season hunt — and what to do instead.

Two-time Olympian Nick Mowrer won the 10m Men’s Air Pistol contest at the USA Shooting National Championships in June. Photo: […]

Well, it looks like some uninvited guests are trying to crash the Flathead party, and wildlife officials are definitely not […]

Montana’s tournament fishing season is going strong, and many anglers are getting prepared for the Tournament of Kings next weekend. […]

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has detected non-native brown trout in Ashley Lake and Church Slough and urges anglers to report any catches. Immediate killing of brown trout in the Flathead drainage is necessary to prevent their establishment, which would harm local fisheries. Anglers are vital in aiding monitoring efforts.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has officially accepted the donation of Siskin Island, an 82-acre fishing access site on the upper Yellowstone River. Accessible only by boat, the site features diverse ecosystems and serves as a nursery for local trout. Regulations will be implemented for conservation and public access, with camping by reservation.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is implementing Stage 1 fire restrictions in Wheatland and Richland counties. Outdoor enthusiasts are advised to verify campfire rules before starting any fires on FWP lands to ensure safety while enjoying recreational activities.

The latest report from Hell Creek Marina highlights excellent walleye and bass fishing, with many anglers reaching their limits. However, northern pike are struggling in the calm, warm waters. A stiff wind is needed to cool the lake, or challenging conditions may persist into August.

These venison jalapeño bombs combine sweet and spicy flavors, featuring a mix of cream cheese, cheddar, and ground venison. They are bacon-free and ideal for parties or game day. Preparation takes 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes, yielding eight servings of this cheesy, flavorful snack.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has detected non-native brown trout in Ashley Lake and Church Slough and urges anglers to report any catches. Immediate killing of brown trout in the Flathead drainage is necessary to prevent their establishment, which would harm local fisheries. Anglers are vital in aiding monitoring efforts.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has officially accepted the donation of Siskin Island, an 82-acre fishing access site on the upper Yellowstone River. Accessible only by boat, the site features diverse ecosystems and serves as a nursery for local trout. Regulations will be implemented for conservation and public access, with camping by reservation.

The Bitterroot River is under Hoot Owl restrictions, prohibiting fishing from 2:00 PM to midnight due to high temperatures. Anglers should plan to fish early in the morning, using tactical strategies with specific flies, while prioritizing trout care. The focus should be on efficient fishing before the afternoon closure.

A charming video on Facebook Reels showcases a dad proudly observing his daughter identifying stuffed fish by species, highlighting the joys of early learning. The father’s caption reflects his delight in teaching her about fishing, suggesting she may become a future tournament partner, nurtured by her supportive dad.

A YouTube spearfisher heads into northwest Montana’s murky waters hunting northern pike — and finds something he didn’t see coming.

Montana’s Big Hole River is currently experiencing warm water temperatures and declining flows, prompting “hoot owl” restrictions on midday fishing. Fishermen are advised to fish early, focusing on deeper pools and handling fish carefully. As summer progresses, expect Tricos and terrestrial fishing opportunities. Utilize a dry-dropper setup for best results.

MeatEater’s Janis Putelis emphasizes that becoming an elite bowhunter requires extensive practice, much more than rifle shooting. Successful preparation involves fine-tuning equipment, practicing with fresh arrows, and simulating high-pressure scenarios. Keeping skills sharp until hunting day is crucial for success, especially in challenging environments like Montana.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is implementing Stage 1 fire restrictions in Wheatland and Richland counties. Outdoor enthusiasts are advised to verify campfire rules before starting any fires on FWP lands to ensure safety while enjoying recreational activities.

The Boulder River is currently “low and gin clear,” making trout easily spooked. As of July 22, 2026, expect good hopper action and morning movements of spruce moths. Water levels will drop in August, leading to wadeable conditions. Late autumn may see migrating brown trout from Yellowstone. Prepare for a technical fishing experience.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has made history by stocking tiger trout in the Missouri River, south of the Garrison Dam. This hybrid fish, a cross between brown and brook trout, is sterile and grows large due to reduced reproductive energy. Anglers in Montana may find this an exciting reason to explore new fishing opportunities.

Two-time Olympian Nick Mowrer won the 10m Men’s Air Pistol contest at the USA Shooting National Championships in June. Photo: […]

Well, it looks like some uninvited guests are trying to crash the Flathead party, and wildlife officials are definitely not […]

Welcome to the Idaho record fish books, Timothy Hicks! 

The grizzly bear was captured for cattle depredation on public land.

Fort Peck Marina Outfitters welcomes Dana Lutz to their guide team. A seasoned angler with deep local knowledge, Dana recently placed 8th in the Montana Governor’s Cup. He offers fishing trips on a 2024 Warrior 2090 Tiller, equipped with advanced Garmin LiveScope electronics, along with sonar training. Book quickly!

Montana grizzly management shifts to state control. Here’s what hunters, ranchers, and backcountry users need to know about what comes next.

The US Army Corps of Engineers reports that water spigots and hydrants at Fort Peck Downstream Campground are temporarily closed for repairs on a water leak. However, the dump station and restrooms are still operational. Campers should await further updates on the restoration of water services.

Rising water temperatures in Montana are prompting hoot-owl fishing restrictions from 2 p.m. to midnight to protect fish populations. Effective July 22, the restrictions affect several rivers, including the Big Hole and Yellowstone. These measures aim to mitigate stress due to high temperatures and low flows, ensuring fish health and sustainability.