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Tongue River Marina Ice Report (Feb. 20): Open Water Near Campers Point & Possible Hidden Weak Ice
Read More: Tongue River Marina Ice Report (Feb. 20): Open Water Near Campers Point & Possible Hidden Weak IceFeb. 20 update: Open water is visible near Campers Point South (from the road) and reported off Campers Point North by the pond. Warm temps, wind, and snow cover may be creating hidden weak spots and thin-ice “bridges”—use extreme caution.
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Hell Creek Marina Ice Report (Feb. 22, 2026): SxS OK to Lucky Point, 4-Wheelers to Johnson; Main Lake Open
Read More: Hell Creek Marina Ice Report (Feb. 22, 2026): SxS OK to Lucky Point, 4-Wheelers to Johnson; Main Lake OpenHell Creek Marina’s Feb. 22, 2026 ice update says a cold snap improved conditions: SxS are reported good to Lucky Point, 4-wheelers from Lucky Point to Johnson, with questionable ice beyond Johnson. The main lake is reported open—watch for changing conditions.
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Montana Shed Antler Hunting Rules for 2026: $50 Nonresident WMA License + 7-Day Waiting Period
Read More: Montana Shed Antler Hunting Rules for 2026: $50 Nonresident WMA License + 7-Day Waiting PeriodMontana’s 2026 shed antler rule updates mainly affect nonresidents on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): a new $50 WMA shed hunting license and a seven-day wait before picking up sheds after WMAs open. Most WMAs open at 12 p.m. on May 15, but verify the specific area’s opening time.
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Remote Work From Anywhere? Ice Anglers Are Turning Frozen Lakes Into the Ultimate Office
Read More: Remote Work From Anywhere? Ice Anglers Are Turning Frozen Lakes Into the Ultimate Office“Work from anywhere” doesn’t always mean a kitchen table. For some ice anglers, remote flexibility looks like a laptop inside an ice shelter—proof that the real shift is mindset as much as location. If you’re mixing work and ice time, make safety the priority.
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Montana Closes Male Mountain Lion Season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 After Sunset (Feb. 24, 2026)
Read More: Montana Closes Male Mountain Lion Season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 After Sunset (Feb. 24, 2026)Montana’s Fish & Wildlife Commission ordered the male mountain lion season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 to close one-half hour after sunset on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. Hunters should check current quota status before heading out.
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Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens Up
Read More: Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens UpFinal winter fishing report for Helena-area reservoirs before updates resume in April. Ice is highly variable and can change fast, and Canyon Ferry’s south end is seeing expanding open water that’s undermining nearby ice—use extreme caution on any ice.
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Montana Hunting Licenses Go on Sale March 1: What Opens, What Changed This Year, and What to Check Before You Buy
Read More: Montana Hunting Licenses Go on Sale March 1: What Opens, What Changed This Year, and What to Check Before You BuyMarch 1 is Montana’s “opening day for paperwork”: licenses go on sale and special draw applications open. With multiple rule changes tied to the 2025 Legislature and the Fish and Wildlife Commission, this is the year to double-check requirements before you buy—don’t assume it’s the same as last season.
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2026 Kalispell Wolf Banquet (Feb. 28): Flathead County Fairgrounds Details, Dinner, Raffles, Games & Auction
Read More: 2026 Kalispell Wolf Banquet (Feb. 28): Flathead County Fairgrounds Details, Dinner, Raffles, Games & AuctionThe 2026 Kalispell Wolf Banquet is set for February 28 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell. Expect a hearty meal followed by games, raffles packed with prizes, and an auction with bid-worthy items. Here’s what to know and how to plan ahead.
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NW Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 21, 2026): Cold Snap Builds Safe Ice, Bigger Lakes Finally Open
Read More: NW Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 21, 2026): Cold Snap Builds Safe Ice, Bigger Lakes Finally OpenLast week’s extreme cold and heavy snow dramatically thickened ice across NW Montana, opening up access to some larger lakes. With a warmer, wetter 7-day forecast (highs in the low 40s, lows near 30, possible rain), conditions could change fast—plan carefully and stay current on ice safety.
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Montana LMU 680 Closing to Female Mountain Lion Hunting After Sunset (Feb. 23, 2026) — What to Know
Read More: Montana LMU 680 Closing to Female Mountain Lion Hunting After Sunset (Feb. 23, 2026) — What to KnowBy order of the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission, LMU 680 will close to all hunting of female mountain lions one-half hour after sunset on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. Get the effective time/date, what’s changing, and where to check official quota status on Montana FWP.
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Don’t Feed Wildlife: A “Calm” Elk Can Bite in Seconds When Hand-Fed
Read More: Don’t Feed Wildlife: A “Calm” Elk Can Bite in Seconds When Hand-FedA calm-looking elk can still react fast—especially around food. In a clip shared as a reminder, a child’s fingers were nibbled while hand-feeding. Here’s why hand-feeding wildlife is risky and the simplest rule to avoid preventable injuries.
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Montana Late-Winter Fly Fishing Report & Forecast 2026: Stable Flows, Clear Water, Active Trout on the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone & Missouri
Read More: Montana Late-Winter Fly Fishing Report & Forecast 2026: Stable Flows, Clear Water, Active Trout on the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone & MissouriMontana’s late-winter fly fishing has been unusually steady in 2026, with mild temperatures keeping conditions stable. Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters reports solid clarity, consistent flows, and trout feeding more predictably than typical for this time of year—especially on subsurface presentations.
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Life-Saving Skills You Can Learn: Downrigger Dale Interviews Instructor Racheal Vargas
Read More: Life-Saving Skills You Can Learn: Downrigger Dale Interviews Instructor Racheal VargasOn the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale talks with instructor Racheal Vargas (Montana K9 Safety and Montana Health & Safety Training) about practical, life-saving skills you can learn through training for individuals and groups—including preparation to help friends, family, and even pets in emergencies.
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Venison Sausage Stuffed Pancakes (Easy Breakfast Recipe from Kokanee Quinn)
Read More: Venison Sausage Stuffed Pancakes (Easy Breakfast Recipe from Kokanee Quinn)These venison breakfast sausage stuffed pancakes—credited to Jenn Homa and shared by Kokanee Quinn—deliver a sweet-and-salty, handheld breakfast that’s perfect for cold mornings, early alarms, and everything from rut-chasing to couch lounging.
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Montana Drought Tightens After Dry February Start—Golden Triangle Slips Toward Extreme Drought
Read More: Montana Drought Tightens After Dry February Start—Golden Triangle Slips Toward Extreme DroughtA mostly dry start to February is tightening drought conditions across Montana. Meteorologist Ryan Dennis says the usual winter “recharge” has been stingy this year, and the Golden Triangle is currently the hardest-hit area, with conditions slipping into extreme drought territory.
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Montana Expands Hunter Education: FWP Adds 7 Regional Technicians as Youth Participation Declines
Read More: Montana Expands Hunter Education: FWP Adds 7 Regional Technicians as Youth Participation DeclinesMontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is expanding hunter education support by hiring seven regional education technicians, even as youth participation faces headwinds from overscheduled kids, two-income parents, and volunteer instructors. The technicians will help backstop the required firearm safety program for anyone born after Jan. 1, 1985.
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NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s Biting
Read More: NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s BitingFrom Chancy’s Fish Camp in Evergreen, MT: ice conditions are a mixed bag across NW Montana—some lakes still have decent ice, others are getting questionable, and a few are leaning into “boat season” vibes. Here’s what to watch for (including pressure ridges) and what anglers are targeting: perch, salmon through the ice, plus trolling for…
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Montana Closes Female Mountain Lion Harvest in LMU 320 & LMU 121 After Sunset Feb. 21, 2026 (Quota Update)
Read More: Montana Closes Female Mountain Lion Harvest in LMU 320 & LMU 121 After Sunset Feb. 21, 2026 (Quota Update)Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission announces female mountain lion harvest closes in LMU 320 and LMU 121 one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, as part of the state’s quota system to support healthy lion populations and sustainable hunting opportunity.
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Parts Capped Over Again, But Ice Still Thin & Unpredictable (Lakeridge Update)
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Parts Capped Over Again, But Ice Still Thin & Unpredictable (Lakeridge Update)Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop reports parts of Fort Peck Lake have capped over again, but conditions remain thin, snow-covered, and unpredictable. Snow can hide cracks and slush, and new capped ice may meet older unstable ice—use extra caution, even in bays that have stayed frozen.
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to Fish
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to FishAfter last night’s refreeze, Fort Peck Lake’s main lake has capped over again—but Fort Peck Marina says it’s “ABSOLUTELY not” safe to fish. Read the latest observations and safety guidance before you head out.
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How to Catch Jumbo Yellow Perch: Bigger Lures, Seasonal Patterns, and a Simple Perch Recipe
Read More: How to Catch Jumbo Yellow Perch: Bigger Lures, Seasonal Patterns, and a Simple Perch RecipeYellow perch may not fight like bass, but they’re outstanding table fare—and you can stack the odds for bigger “jumbos” by thinking bigger than the usual live bait and tiny jigs. Here’s why bass-style lures work, what to throw in spring, early summer, and fall, plus a simple perch recipe to try.
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Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding Areas
Read More: Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding AreasWith questions swirling from anglers, Don Wilkins went out to verify current ice conditions near the Fort Peck Dam. He checked the main channel and surrounding areas firsthand to give a clearer picture of what’s out there right now.
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Mountain Lion Backstrap Pizza on the Grill: Wild Game Recipe to Mark the Feb. 28 Season Close
Read More: Mountain Lion Backstrap Pizza on the Grill: Wild Game Recipe to Mark the Feb. 28 Season CloseA grill-fired wild game pizza featuring mountain lion backstrap—originally shared on montana-wild.com by Travis Boughton and reposted as a nod to the Feb. 28 close of the 2025 season.
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 19, 2026): Significant Open Water, Shorelines Opening Up, Real Feel -16°
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 19, 2026): Significant Open Water, Shorelines Opening Up, Real Feel -16°Not much has changed in the ice’s favor at Fort Peck Lake this week. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports significant open water with pockets throughout remaining ice, with shelf ice and shorelines continuing to open up. Snow has started and the “real feel” temperature is -16°. Safety first on the ice.
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Upper Salmon River Steelhead Report (Feb. 11–15, 2026): Mild Winter, Stable Flows, and Fish Pushing Farther Upstream
Read More: Upper Salmon River Steelhead Report (Feb. 11–15, 2026): Mild Winter, Stable Flows, and Fish Pushing Farther UpstreamA mild winter kept the Upper Salmon River more open than usual in mid-February, with warmer water, a shorter ice jam, and stable flows. Monitoring from Feb. 11–15, 2026 also showed steelhead moving farther upstream than typical, with strong angler effort and good catch rates across most monitored areas.
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Montana FWP Reminder: These Hunting and Trapping Seasons Continue After the Feb. 28 License Deadline
Read More: Montana FWP Reminder: These Hunting and Trapping Seasons Continue After the Feb. 28 License DeadlineMost Montana licenses wrap up Feb. 28, but a few seasons keep going. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks says mountain lion and wolf hunting continue past the license-year close, and some trapping seasons do too. If you use E-Tags, note they’ll go inactive in the app after Feb. 28—FWP recommends picking up an offline license…
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Smith River Permit Lottery Results Are In: How to Check MyFWP, Super Permit Deadline (March 15) + Launch Rules
Read More: Smith River Permit Lottery Results Are In: How to Check MyFWP, Super Permit Deadline (March 15) + Launch RulesMontana FWP has posted Smith River permit drawing results in MyFWP, and successful applicants will also receive their permit by email. Didn’t draw? Super Permit chances are on sale through March 15 ($5 each), and remaining/cancelled launch dates can be requested by phone starting Monday, March 2. Here’s what to know about updated river rules,…
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Montana FWP 2026–2027 Conservation & Recreation Permit Season: Expiration Date, Renewal Timeline, and New License Ambassador Program
Read More: Montana FWP 2026–2027 Conservation & Recreation Permit Season: Expiration Date, Renewal Timeline, and New License Ambassador ProgramThe current conservation and recreation permit season ends Feb. 28, 2026, and permits must be renewed for the new season beginning March 1, 2026. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is also launching a License Ambassador program for external sales, with a hotline for help during normal business hours. Here’s what to know, how to apply,…
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Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament Update
Read More: Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament UpdateMacman’s latest Flathead-area fishing report: Browns Lake is around 10 inches of ice and Upper Thompson about 6, but no ice is truly safe. Lake Mary Ronan and Flathead River sloughs are in good shape, colder temps should help, and McGregor Lake hosts a combo ice/open-water tournament next weekend. For open water, Yellow Bay has…
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Montana Hunter Ed Registration Is Opening Now: Grab a Spring Seat Before the Summer Rush
Read More: Montana Hunter Ed Registration Is Opening Now: Grab a Spring Seat Before the Summer RushMore than 15 hunter and bowhunter education courses across north-central Montana are open or about to open for registration. Spring is the easiest time to secure a spot, with both classroom and online options available. Don’t wait until late summer or fall, when seats get competitive and classes fill up fast.
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Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open Water
Read More: Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open WaterStrong 20–30 mph winds are rapidly changing conditions on Fort Peck. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports remaining ice sheets have broken up, leaving a mix of wide-open water and unstable, fragmented ice—use extreme caution and avoid questionable surfaces.
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Rescue: Search & Rescue, Airboat Crew, and Locals Bring Stranded People Safely Back to Shore
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Rescue: Search & Rescue, Airboat Crew, and Locals Bring Stranded People Safely Back to ShoreValley County Search and Rescue responded around 4:00 p.m. after several people became stranded on Fort Peck Lake. An airboat team launched while others staged on land, and local good Samaritans used side-by-sides to help get everyone off drifting ice and back to shore safely. A timely reminder that late-winter ice can change fast.
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Montana Wolf Harvest Update (Feb. 17, 2026): 229 Wolves Taken Toward 452-Quota; WMU 313 Closed
Read More: Montana Wolf Harvest Update (Feb. 17, 2026): 229 Wolves Taken Toward 452-Quota; WMU 313 ClosedFWP reports 229 wolves harvested statewide toward a 452-wolf quota (excluding WMUs 313 and 316). Region 1 leads with 96, followed by Region 2 (73) and Region 3 (49). Region 3 remains open (49 of 60), WMU 316 is open (1 of 3), and WMU 313 has closed after reaching its 3-wolf limit. The general…
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Montana Boat Inspection Stations Reopen March 7: Key Watercraft Inspection Dates, Locations, and AIS Reports
Read More: Montana Boat Inspection Stations Reopen March 7: Key Watercraft Inspection Dates, Locations, and AIS ReportsMontana watercraft inspection stations reopen March 7 in Dillon, Ravalli, and Anaconda as Fish, Wildlife & Parks highlights another year of keeping invasive mussels out of state waters. New AIS reports underscore strong prevention statewide—and a growing risk from boats returning from out-of-state waters.
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Missouri River Fishing Forecast (February 2026): Midges, 36°F Water Temps, and Winter Streamer/Trout Spey Opportunities in Craig, MT
Read More: Missouri River Fishing Forecast (February 2026): Midges, 36°F Water Temps, and Winter Streamer/Trout Spey Opportunities in Craig, MTFebruary on Montana’s Missouri River is quiet, cold, and—when weather cooperates—surprisingly productive. With snowpack running roughly 80–90% of average, steady flows, and that key 36°F water-temp line dictating fish behavior, expect midges, deep-bucket nymphing, a sneaky-good winter streamer bite, and Trout Spey anglers swinging heavier tips through prime holding water. Here’s the latest Craig, MT…
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He Tagged a 170-Inch Alabama Whitetail Legally—Then the Internet Sparked Poaching Rumors and Calls to Game Wardens
Read More: He Tagged a 170-Inch Alabama Whitetail Legally—Then the Internet Sparked Poaching Rumors and Calls to Game WardensDC Tabscott’s 170-inch-plus Alabama buck went viral fast—and so did the accusations. After he posted the deer online, strangers claimed poaching and trespassing, tracked down landowners, and even contacted game wardens. His story is a blunt reminder: hunt legally, get permission in writing, and document everything—because the real chaos can start after you hit “post.”
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Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice Access
Read More: Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice AccessLakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop shared an update (Feb. 17, ~6:30 p.m.) warning that the ice “did not make it” and the lake is blown open with no safe access. More updates are expected after the storm passes.
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Deadly Fish Camp Argument in Tuluksak: Alaska Troopers Arrest Man on Second-Degree Murder Charge
Read More: Deadly Fish Camp Argument in Tuluksak: Alaska Troopers Arrest Man on Second-Degree Murder ChargeAlaska State Troopers say 54-year-old Nelson Hawk was found dead near Tuluksak with a gunshot wound after an alleged argument at a local fish camp. A 42-year-old Tuluksak man has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder, plus assault and evidence tampering.
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Tiber Marina Upgrades: Public Meeting Feb. 24, 2026 in Chester (Plus Online Option & Comment Deadline)
Read More: Tiber Marina Upgrades: Public Meeting Feb. 24, 2026 in Chester (Plus Online Option & Comment Deadline)The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking public feedback on proposed improvements to Tiber Marina at Tiber Reservoir, including expanded campsites and parking, an improved boat ramp, and a new concessionaire building. Attend the Feb. 24, 2026 meeting in Chester, join via Microsoft Teams, or submit comments by March 10, 2026.
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Fox Haas Dies at 95: Legendary Turkey Hunter, Mossy Oak Patriarch, and Mississippi Conservation Force
Read More: Fox Haas Dies at 95: Legendary Turkey Hunter, Mossy Oak Patriarch, and Mississippi Conservation ForceFox Haas, the celebrated turkey hunter and conservation advocate, has died at 95. From a 75-season run (with only two missed years during tuberculosis) to helping spur Mississippi turkey reintroductions and inspiring Mossy Oak’s roots, Haas leaves a legacy that shaped spring woods for generations.
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Ice Fishing Safety Alert: Carbon Monoxide in Shelters Can Turn Deadly—How to Stay Safe with Heaters
Read More: Ice Fishing Safety Alert: Carbon Monoxide in Shelters Can Turn Deadly—How to Stay Safe with HeatersA heater inside an ice fishing tent can create a lethal carbon monoxide buildup—an invisible, odorless danger. Learn the key steps to reduce risk: ventilation, cracked windows, open vents, and a battery-powered CO detector every trip.
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Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley Reservoir
Read More: Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley ReservoirMontana FWP’s latest Helena-area reservoir update: ice is extremely variable, with open water in spots. Here’s where anglers are finding rainbows, walleye, perch, kokanee, and burbot—plus what’s being used and where conditions are unsafe.
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Are Elk Dangerous? What to Know About Aggressive Behavior During the Rut and Calving Season
Read More: Are Elk Dangerous? What to Know About Aggressive Behavior During the Rut and Calving SeasonElk usually want to avoid people—but they can become dangerous fast during the fall rut or spring calving season. Learn the warning signs (pinned ears, lowered head, charging posture) and what to do if an elk starts closing the distance.
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Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still Lingers
Read More: Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still LingersAnglers report Canyon Ferry is in transition: part ice, part open water, and heavily wind-dependent. Reports say it’s open from the dam to roughly Confederate Gulch, with much of the north end showing open water—but a lingering ice sheet past the Silos boat launch may be hard to spot from a distance. Use caution before…
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February Fishing Report: Missouri River Strategies
Read More: February Fishing Report: Missouri River StrategiesThe Missouri River fishing is improving despite some wind, with nymphing and midges being effective. Focus on subsurface techniques and smaller streamers for success during winter outings.
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The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under Ice
Read More: The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under IceThe video showcases a large largemouth bass beneath ice, demonstrating that these fish remain active in winter. Ice fishing persists as a popular winter activity, targeting various species, including bass.
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Walleye Unlimited Bingo Night: Win Cash and Prizes
Read More: Walleye Unlimited Bingo Night: Win Cash and PrizesWalleye Unlimited Bingo Night returns on February 26, 2026, at The Office Bar in Livingston, featuring a $1,000 final round and supporting local causes. Join for fun and prizes!
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Winter Fishing Challenges on the Jefferson River in Montana
Read More: Winter Fishing Challenges on the Jefferson River in MontanaWinter fishing on the Jefferson River is challenging due to low trout densities. Patience with nymphing is necessary, but better fishing opportunities usually arise in early spring.
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Why Field Dressing Requires Full Focus
Read More: Why Field Dressing Requires Full FocusHunting accidents happen. A twisted ankle in rough country. A close call with a falling branch. Even the occasional misplaced […]
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Southwest Montana Fishing Report 2.13.26
Read More: Southwest Montana Fishing Report 2.13.26This winter fishing report for Southwest Montana details favorable conditions with mild temperatures, calm winds, and strong midge hatches. Key locations include the Lower Madison River, Gallatin River, and Paradise Valley Spring Creeks.