Young Angler Catches Rainbow Trout and Record-Sized Pikeminnow

Jan Axtell’s report highlights excellent fly fishing conditions in Montana. The Yellowstone River is flowing at 6,970 CFS, offering fantastic trout opportunities with stonefly nymphs in the morning and a variety of dry flies in the afternoon. The Paradise Valley Spring Creeks are also thriving, with a consistent PMD hatch.

Spending Independence Day outdoors embodies American tradition, inviting adventure in nature. To escape crowds, explore public lands or longer trails, practice safe campfire etiquette, and pack essentials like sunscreen and life jackets. Upholding the “Leave No Trace” principle ensures nature remains pristine, helping celebrate the holiday responsibly and joyfully.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks proposes a 99-year conservation easement for a 3,652-acre section of the Hannah Ranch, aimed at enhancing elk management and providing 400 public hunter days annually. Valued at $3.56 million, the easement would offer limited public access, addressing habitat preservation and recreational opportunities while managing local hunting pressures. Public comments are open until July 28.

Montana game wardens patrol remote mountain rivers catching illegal fishing violations in this gripping Season 6 episode of Signal Wild’s Wardens series.

Montana FWP biologists are cautiously optimistic that late spring rainfall will improve mule deer numbers in north-central Montana after three years of drought-driven population declines.

Walleye fishing is thriving in 15-25 feet of water, with slow death rigs and jigs proving effective. For lake trout, successful catches occur at depths of 95-105 feet using heavy laker jigs with paddletails. Adapting techniques enhances the bite during tougher conditions, ensuring consistent results for anglers.

Since 2018, Congress has delayed the Farm Bill, impacting crucial conservation programs like the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). However, the House has approved a version, and the Senate has introduced a substantial draft. Key proposals include increasing funding for CRP and government cost-sharing. A final agreement must be reached by year-end to avoid restarting the process.

The upper Salmon River Chinook fishery is seeing a significant increase in salmon catch rates, with about 67% of the harvest share available. As of June 28, anglers have harvested 68 hatchery adult salmon, and river conditions are favorable for fishing this upcoming weekend. Ongoing updates on trapping numbers will ensure anglers stay informed.