Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 9.11.26
September 11, 2026 by Angela Montana
Don Wilkins is back with this week’s Fort Peck fishing report, and the bite continues to offer plenty of opportunities across the lake. Walleye and pike are responding well to trolling, smallmouth are holding on deeper main-lake points, and lake trout action is picking up as the day progresses. Here’s Don’s breakdown of what’s working and where to find them this week.
Give Don a call at 406.407.6648.
Walleye- pulling crankbaits in 25-35 feet at 2.1-2.2 mph worked well for us again this past week. Bottom bouncers aand crawlers with a #1 northland wonderbread or silver colored blade got them in the boat when they slowed down on the crankbaits
Pike- some fish are starting to move up shallower words the weeds but we still had the best luck trolling for them. 20-35 feet and speed was also 2.1-2.3
Smallmouth-25-35 feet on some main lake points with a jig and minnow vertical jigging ot a minnow and a slip bobber is working pretty well right now.
Lakers-mostly out on the deep flats from 115-135 feet. Early morning bite has been slow but from mid morning on into the afternoon it was much better. Sightflash colored 4.8” Kietech paddletails were the deal for us this week
The Clark Fork River experienced improved fishing conditions post-Labor Day, with flows around 1,200 cfs. Cooler waters have made trout more active, encouraging anglers to use smaller dries and various nymphs. The segment from Weigh Station to Sha-Ron is closed until October 31st, as fall fishing strategies begin to evolve.
As fall approaches, the Bitterroot River’s fishing conditions are improving. Early mornings favor Tricos, while midday requires switching to hoppers and terrestrials. Streamer fishing is also enhancing, with effective patterns to try. Anglers should prepare for exciting fall hatches, making September an opportune time for fishing enthusiasts.
September marks a transition for hunters and fishermen, but it also signifies a somber remembrance of September 11, 2001, when 2,977 lives were lost. As we reflect on that day’s shock and bravery, we find solace in nature, cherishing family and freedom. Let us honor those lost and never forget.
The Clark Fork River experienced improved fishing conditions post-Labor Day, with flows around 1,200 cfs. Cooler waters have made trout more active, encouraging anglers to use smaller dries and various nymphs. The segment from Weigh Station to Sha-Ron is closed until October 31st, as fall fishing strategies begin to evolve.
A legislative panel in Montana discussed concerns that affluent hunters are exploiting hunting programs to obtain nonresident elk tags. Evidence includes wealthy buyers subdividing large ranches to gain landowner preference. Recommendations to address inequities include waiting periods for land purchases and limiting permits for nonresident landowners to ensure fairness for residents.
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that the Black Bear Management Unit 411 will be closed to all black bear hunting starting one-half hour after sunset on September 12, 2026, for the remainder of the archery season.
As fall approaches, the Bitterroot River’s fishing conditions are improving. Early mornings favor Tricos, while midday requires switching to hoppers and terrestrials. Streamer fishing is also enhancing, with effective patterns to try. Anglers should prepare for exciting fall hatches, making September an opportune time for fishing enthusiasts.
