Twice each year, anglers from across Montana—and increasingly from around the country—head to legendary Flathead Lake for one of the most unique fishing tournaments you’ll find anywhere. Why? Because Mack Days isn’t just about catching fish. It’s about helping protect one of Montana’s most treasured fisheries while having the chance to win thousands of dollars in cash and prizes.
In this special Fall Mack Days edition of the Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale sits down with new Mack Days Tournament Director Joe Santos to explain everything you need to know before the tournament begins.
Whether you’ve fished Mack Days for years or you’re thinking about entering for the very first time, when you watch or listen to this episode, you’ll find answers to just about every question you can imagine.
You’ll learn:
- Why Mack Days exists and how anglers are helping native bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout.
- How to register—even after the tournament has started.
- The many different ways to win cash and prizes.
- How tagged fish work—including the famous $10,000 fish.
- The best places to launch your boat.
- Where to camp during the tournament.
- How to identify lake trout versus protected bull trout.
- Tips for staying safe on Flathead Lake during changing fall weather.
- Where to find fishing maps, instructional videos, and tournament resources.
Whether you’re hoping to win big, spend time with family on one of the most beautiful lakes in America, or simply enjoy helping conserve one of Montana’s most iconic fisheries, Fall Mack Days offers something for everyone.
Watch or Listen to the podcast, gather your gear, and we’ll see you on Flathead Lake September 10th through November 8th!
Links:
- Click the links below to get info on most everything Rigger and Joe talked about:
- To email Joe Santos click here or call him:
- Cell: (406) 274-0613
- Office: (406) 883-2888 Ext: 7290
- Of course, just click here to email your buddy Downrigger Dale

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