From June 21 to 28, 2026, the Bighorn River is optimal for fishing, with flows at 1,520 CFS and water temperatures between 50–55°F, enhancing trout activity. Key times for fishing include mornings and afternoons for PMDs and caddis. Effective tactics involve targeting seams and adjusting indicators for depth. Weather changes may affect conditions.

As of June 21, 2026, the Kootenai River is perfect for fishing, with flows dropping to 17,500 cfs. Trout are actively feeding after spawning, favoring deep, soft runs. Recommended flies include coffee-colored Pat’s Stonefly and Midges. Linehan Outfitting offers gear upgrades like Orvis rods for an improved fishing experience.

The Captain’s brothers and brother-in-law enjoyed an amazing five-day fishing trip at Fort Peck, Montana. The highlight was a memorable catch-and-release day, featuring impressive walleyes measuring up to 31 inches. They also caught eater-sized walleyes, creating lasting family memories on the waters of Fort Peck.

This weekend’s fishing report for Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs highlights an active bite for walleye, trout, and kokanee. Effective techniques include using various rigs and lures in specified depths. Anglers are experiencing success in both shore and boat fishing across these locations, making it an ideal time to fish in Montana.

As runoff season concludes, Montana’s rivers are primed for fishing, with early summer conditions ideal for trout. Anglers are advised to fish early due to rising temperatures. Local waters offer diverse fishing experiences, and experts suggest using dry-dropper setups for optimum results. Gloomy weather may enhance hatches and strikes.

The report from Madison River Outfitters in West Yellowstone highlights improved fishing conditions with rising flows and warmer weather. Morning dry-dropper setups are effective, while afternoons see success with caddis dries. The Gallatin River is also fishing well. Fishing is advised in the Upper Madison over the Firehole due to temperature concerns.

Rock Creek is transitioning into summer with declining flows and improved water clarity, making wade fishing favorable but challenging for floaters due to exposed rocks. Golden Stones are the primary focus for flies, with other species like PMDs and caddis also active. Anglers should target softer water for a successful catch as conditions improve.

The Yellowstone green drake hatch is peaking right now. Here’s your tactical guide to timing, flies, and the best stretches from Gardiner to Livingston.

Montana’s lakes, rivers, and streams are producing. Get your reports and insights right here. Montana Outdoor Radio Show · June […]

Montana’s free fishing weekend is June 20-21. Here’s your strategic guide to actually landing fish during the Father’s Day license waiver event.

Montana Wild’s new Shoot Better Series tackles the trigger mistake most hunters make. Fix it before elk season opens this fall.

Drew a Montana limited-entry archery elk tag? The 60-90 day window before August is your most critical scouting period. Here’s your action plan.

The U.S. Forest Service will publish a proposed climbing directive in the Federal Register and initiate a 30-day public comment period.

Skull Bound TV heads to eastern Montana for pronghorn. Here’s what makes this hunt special — plus tags, tactics, and public land access tips for Montana hunters.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks recently completed their spring aerial survey, revealing mixed results for Region 5. While fawn survival was high due to a mild winter, adult deer populations remain low. Areas like Roundup showed increased numbers, but places like Red Lodge hit historic lows due to disease management efforts.

Montana’s bighorn sheep restoration efforts face challenges due to property lines on private land. To address this, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is forming a five-month advisory panel to find solutions. Interested individuals can apply by July 3, providing their contact details, representation, and conservation insights.

Trail cam footage near Rotary Pond captured a possible grizzly bear sighting. While there have been no conflicts, outdoor enthusiasts in the area should stay vigilant. To ensure safety, they should follow bear awareness guidelines, such as securing food, using bear spray, traveling in groups, and avoiding low-visibility times.

Starting June 15, Montana hunters can register online for the annual Game Damage Hunt Roster through MyFWP, aimed at curbing damage from deer, elk, and antelope. Registration runs until July 15, with an additional roster for bison. Hunters must choose one district and may not be guaranteed a hunting opportunity.

The report from Madison River Outfitters in West Yellowstone highlights improved fishing conditions with rising flows and warmer weather. Morning dry-dropper setups are effective, while afternoons see success with caddis dries. The Gallatin River is also fishing well. Fishing is advised in the Upper Madison over the Firehole due to temperature concerns.

Rock Creek is transitioning into summer with declining flows and improved water clarity, making wade fishing favorable but challenging for floaters due to exposed rocks. Golden Stones are the primary focus for flies, with other species like PMDs and caddis also active. Anglers should target softer water for a successful catch as conditions improve.

Drew a Montana limited-entry archery elk tag? The 60-90 day window before August is your most critical scouting period. Here’s your action plan.

The Yellowstone green drake hatch is peaking right now. Here’s your tactical guide to timing, flies, and the best stretches from Gardiner to Livingston.

Montana’s lakes, rivers, and streams are producing. Get your reports and insights right here. Montana Outdoor Radio Show · June […]

Did you miss Last Week’s Show? Get caught up here. Get your current and upcoming tournament updates, bait suggestions, and […]

This week’s Montana Outdoor Podcast features host Downrigger Dale interviewing experts on recent fish consumption warnings from the FWP, DEQ, and health departments. The discussion focuses on PFAS pollutants found in fish and addresses public concerns, especially for vulnerable groups. Listeners can gain valuable insights and access expert contacts.

Montana’s free fishing weekend is June 20-21. Here’s your strategic guide to actually landing fish during the Father’s Day license waiver event.

The June 18, 2026 Madison River fishing report highlights a stable, fishable river following recent weather events. With clear flows and active fish, anglers can enjoy fishing with various nymphs and streamers. Emphasis is placed on utilizing bear spray, practicing fish respect, and adhering to etiquette on the water for a successful experience.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans to exchange private land for public wildlife refuge in Texas, sparking controversy. While the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service supports the swap, arguing it aids conservation, environmentalists have filed a lawsuit claiming it threatens wildlife habitats and violates federal law. The outcome now rests with a court.

The Bureau of Land Management has opened a new parking area west of Belfry, giving access to 6,400 acres of federal land. Suggested by the Beartooth Backcountry Horsemen, this area aims to improve public access. While lacking trails currently, future plans include developing pathways, despite limited funding and staffing challenges.

The full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road will be open to bicyclists from June 18-21, before it is projected to open to motorized vehicles on Monday, June 22.

The University of Montana will again operate its free river shuttle to popular points on the Clark Fork River. The UDASH River Shuttle will begin service Thursday, June 25, and run through Saturday, July 26.

The U.S. Forest Service will publish a proposed climbing directive in the Federal Register and initiate a 30-day public comment period.

The Bureau of Land Management is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest, and/or conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for recent vandalism at the John G Trailhead in the Scratch Gravel Hills Recreation Area.

Walleye fishing is thriving at main lake points using slow death hooks, jigs, and fathead minnows in 18-25 feet of water. Northern pike are being caught with spoons and crankbaits, alongside dead rods near the shoreline. Lake trout are abundant between 80-110 feet, often staying close to the bottom.

Skull Bound TV heads to eastern Montana for pronghorn. Here’s what makes this hunt special — plus tags, tactics, and public land access tips for Montana hunters.

Montana FWP opened 4 new riverside campsites at John and Nancy Owen Fishing Access Site on the Bitterroot River near Stevensville on June 5th.

Trout Creek teen James Lacy, 16, claimed first place among 1,232 competitors at the 2026 NASP Western National Tournament, earning a spot at the championship in Daytona.

The sturgeon spawning season is concluding, prompting Libby Dam to gradually reduce water flow in the Kootenai River. Current flow is 20,000 cfs, dropping to 15,000 cfs next week. Trout activity is slow due to cold water at 40°F. Nymphing is effective, with dry fly fishing improving later in the day.