153 Teams Battle on Day 1; 13 Teams Top 50 pounds MT Walleye Gov Cup

The Blackfoot River near Milltown will be closed to floating from Weigh Station FAS to the I-90 bridge starting July 15 due to BNSF railway bridge construction.

As a heatwave approaches, it’s essential to stay safe while enjoying Montana’s rivers. Despite their inviting appearance, dangers such as construction and changing conditions exist. Ensure you’re equipped with proper gear and navigation skills to avoid accidents. Prioritize safety to turn your weekend into a fun story, not a cautionary tale.

Summer conditions on the Missouri River feature high-water challenges and changing hatches. Fishing is tough, particularly from Toston to Canyon Ferry, where walleye can be found in slack waters. Meanwhile, from Holter to Great Falls, the PMD hatch is declining, with nymphing and specific dry flies being recommended.

Hoot-owl restrictions will begin on July 11 at 2 p.m. for certain Montana rivers, prohibiting fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight. These measures aim to protect fish during high temperatures and low water conditions. Anglers are encouraged to fish during cooler hours or explore other water bodies with better conditions.

Anglers are successfully catching kokanee in the Regulating Reservoir, especially during morning and evening hours. The preferred method involves trolling wedding rings with scented corn, using colors like chartreuse, pink, or orange. Fish are being found at depths ranging from 10 to 35 feet, with a speed of 1.0 to 1.2 mph recommended.

Fishing at Holter Lake remains steady despite quieter crowds. Walleye are prevalent, particularly in lower canyon areas, with effective techniques including slip bobbers and jigs near weed beds. Rainbow trout are being caught using kokanee tackle, and kokanee fishing is slowly improving as they may be moving to deeper waters.

Summer fishing on Hauser Lake offers diverse opportunities, including walleye, trout, and pike. Anglers can catch trout by trolling deeper areas near Spokane Bay, using crankbaits and cowbells. Walleye are best found near weed edges, while pike respond well to jigs. Patience and varying techniques are crucial for success.

Canyon Ferry is currently thriving for walleye and trout fishing, as of July 10, 2026, with the lake 89.4% full and inflows at 4,900 cfs. Anglers should target depths around 10-15 feet using various color patterns. Techniques include bottom bouncing, trolling, and casting near shorelines for successful catches.