Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Lake Access Restored: Hell Creek Marina’s Latest Update

Between a sudden 80° fever and a little help from the wind, Mother Nature just gave the ice an eviction […]

Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hebgen Lake Ice Fishing 3.20.26

Garrett Ostler is relishing the lovely weather and ice conditions at Hebgen Lake, as shared in his video.

Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Breaking the Ice: Why Fort Peck Marina is the Place to Be This Week

With the ice clearing at Fort Peck Marina, boating season is upon us. Eddie Mindt has worked tirelessly to open the bay, allowing early access to perfect weather for cruising. Embrace the marina's lively atmosphere, grab your gear, and enjoy the water before summer’s heat sets in. Don't miss out!

Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Outdoor Podcast: Unique Ice Fishing Tournament Rules Explained

The Montana Outdoor Podcast features Downrigger Dale interviewing USA Ice Fishing Team members before the World Ice Fishing Championship in Sweden, discussing unique tournament rules and competition against ten countries.

Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: The Only Pecan-Crusted Salmon Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Kokanee Quinn reveals a simple yet gourmet roasted pecan-crusted salmon recipe. Featuring fresh ingredients and easy preparation, it promises a delightful dining experience that exceeds expectations. Enjoy!

Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Fort Peck Fishing Report: Shore Hot, Ice Cold

Fort Peck is still in a deep freeze from the Shafthouse to Rock Creek, so keep the boat on the […]

Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Goldfish, Pike, and the “Wrong” Kind of Romance: Montana’s 2026 Underwater Eviction Notice

If you thought your dating life was complicated, try being a Westslope Cutthroat Trout in the Big Hole Drainage. Between […]

Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Beefing Up the Defense: Why Montana Ranchers Are Heading to Court Over I-194

Montana's MSGA opposes ballot initiative I-194, which they argue restricts free speech by banning certain entities from influencing political matters. A coalition seeks to block the initiative, protecting business rights.

Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don’t Get Bitten by a Poaching Charge: Why Your Montana Mountain Lion Tag Can’t Be a “Post-Shot” Purchase

Central Montana game wardens saw a rise in illegally taken mountain lions in 2025, with three hunters cited for buying licenses after killing lions. Fines totaled $3,605.

Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bear’s Dinner Party: Why Your Favorite Bozeman Trails are Temporarily Off-Limits

Due to a wildlife attractant's presence, the Bozeman Ranger District has closed popular hiking trails around Big Sky from March 18 to April 15, 2026, ensuring public safety and preventing bear encounters.

Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Temecula Standoff: When Viral Clips Meet Harsh Realities

A viral Temecula standoff proves context is king. Is a landowner’s gunfire an unhinged overreaction or the "boiling point" of repeated theft and vandalism? Colion Noir weighs in on property rights.

Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

Grizzly Bears: Nature’s Muscular Monuments to Power

Meet the Grizzly: Montana’s ultimate heavyweight. With 1,200 PSI bite force and armor-thick skin, these biological bulldozers redefine power. Discover why the "hump" is pure muscle and how they dominate.

Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

The “Anti-Winter” Strategy: Why March and April on the Kootenai are Montana’s Best Kept Secret

Spring fishing in Montana is prime between mid-March and late April, featuring slow trout behavior and a focus on nymphing. Anglers should utilize specific streamers and dry flies during warmer afternoons.

Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

From the Big Sky to Big Water: Why Montana Sledders Should Take Note of the Michigan “Ice-Capades”

A snowmobiler in Michigan floated on ice near Mackinac Island during a storm, highlighting dangers of unstable ice. Safety gear and caution are essential for snowmobilers near water and ice.

Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana’s Wolf Season: That’s a Wrap for 2025-2026

The Montana wolf season ended on March 15, with 243 wolves harvested out of a quota of 452. Region 1 led with 98 harvests, while Regions 6 and 7 reported none. Future seasons are scheduled, but dates may change due to federal court orders. Data serves vital conservation purposes. Stay informed for updates.

Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

CWD Is Spreading North from Wyoming: What Montana Mule Deer Hunters Must Know

Wyoming's CWD surge threatens Montana mule deer. With permit apps due April 1, here's what hunters must know about carcass rules and testing.

Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

When Nature Meets Urban Life: Wildlife Encounters

Life's unpredictability affects both humans and wildlife. As animals adapt to urban landscapes, encounters with obstacles can lead to tricky situations, highlighting our overlapping worlds and shared challenges.

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Great Madison Range Meet-Up: Giving Bighorn Sheep a Lift

In the world of Montana real estate, the Madison Range has a bit of a “middle child” problem. To the […]

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Elk Tenderloin Done Right: Best Cooking Methods Montana Hunters Swear By

Montana elk hunters, don't let that last tenderloin sit in the freezer. Here are the best cooking methods to do this prized cut justice.

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

So… There’s a Grizzly Bear in Your Yard. Now What?

Picture this: you step outside with your morning coffee, ready to enjoy the peaceful countryside… and there’s a grizzly bear […]

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

What a Lost GoPro at West Yellowstone’s Bear Center Reveals About Grizzly Behavior in Your Hunting Ground

A lost GoPro at a grizzly bear center captured fascinating footage of how bears interact with unfamiliar objects—valuable insight for backcountry safety.

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Anglers Brave Wind and Snow for First Week of 2026 Spring Mack Days

The first week of the 2026 Spring Mack Days saw nearly 1,900 lake trout caught despite harsh winter conditions. The event supports fish conservation, enhancing native trout populations in Flathead Lake.

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Deer & Elk Permit Application Deadline, April 1

If deer or elk hunting is on your Montana to-do list this year, remember that the deadline to apply for […]

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

When Wildlife Interrupts Fishing Adventures

A fisherman’s quiet day on the water takes a wild turn when an aggressive beaver repeatedly charges and follows him, creating a surprising wildlife encounter anglers won’t soon forget.

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Trout Jerky Recipe: Sweet and Smoky Flavor Made Easy

Trout jerky offers a flavorful alternative to traditional beef jerky, using a maple-whisky marinade and simple preparation methods. It's perfect for snacking on fishing trips or road journeys.

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Celebrate Fishing Conservation at the Wolf Point Walleyes Unlimited Annual Banquet

Join the 40th Annual Walleyes Unlimited Banquet on March 21 in Wolf Point, Montana, featuring dinner, raffles, and prizes, while supporting fish conservation and outdoor recreation efforts.

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Special Youth Turkey Hunt Opportunity in Flathead Valley, Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting a free youth turkey hunt on May 2-3, 2026, for ages 10-15, including safety training and mentorship. Applications are due soon.

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Current Snowpack Conditions in Montana’s River Basins

Montana's snowpack varies significantly; while overall moisture is above normal in many basins, some areas remain below average. The state may still see beneficial late-season snowfall through April.

Mar 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don’t Miss the April 2026 MTA Banquet – Tickets Available Now!

The Montana Trappers Association Banquet on April 11, 2026, at Anaconda Elks Lodge features good food, entertainment, and community spirit, supporting trapping heritage with auctions and contests. Tickets available now.

Mar 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

How Weather Affects Fish Feeding Behavior

Weather significantly impacts fish feeding behavior, with factors like temperature and pressure influencing activity. Understanding these changes helps anglers adjust tactics for improved catch rates.

Mar 14, 2026 · Angela Montana

Spring Mack Days: Fishing Tips from Ryker and Patrick

This week's Montana Outdoor Podcast features Ryker Bair and Patrick Casey discussing their experiences in Mack Days, highlighting the collaborative spirit among anglers as they share tips for successful fishing.

Mar 14, 2026 · Angela Montana

Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: Pheasant Cordon Bleu Recipe (Easy Wild Game Dinner)

Pheasant Cordon Bleu is an easy, gourmet recipe combining pheasant with Canadian bacon, prosciutto, Swiss cheese, and breadcrumbs, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Disease, development, warming climate threaten mule deer, according to Wyoming study

A Wyoming study indicates that mule deer populations are declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and other stressors, with current estimates dropping significantly since their peak in 1991.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Mountain Men Stars Tom Oar and Paul Antczak Coming to Missoula Pig Roast April 18

MTSFW's 16th Annual Pig Roast Banquet & Fundraiser on April 18, 2026, offers great food, raffles, and special guests from Mountain Men. Early tickets available, kids enter free.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 3.13.26

This past week, fishing on Peck was impossible due to warm weather and unsafe ice conditions, signaling the end of the season. Areas near the dam have opened up, hinting at potential boat usage soon. It's an opportune time to service ice fishing gear and prepare for next winter.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Paddlefish Permit Deadline Approaches: Apply by April 1

Apply for paddlefish permits by April 1 to participate in the unique season. Applications are easy online or in-person at local FWP offices or authorized retailers. Don't miss out!

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

When Man’s Best Friend Pulls the Trigger: Bizarre Hunting Accidents Involving Dogs

Unusual hunting accidents have occurred when dogs accidentally discharged firearms. From an Indiana hunter injured in the blind to a fatal incident in Turkey, these cases highlight the importance of gun safety.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Understanding Wildlife Management Beyond AI

Hyper-real AI wildlife clips can feel more convincing than reality—until you notice the cartoon voiceovers and emotional storylines. But wolves and grizzlies in places like Montana aren’t characters in a feel-good narrative. This piece breaks down how AI content can distort public perception and why real-world wildlife management is a complicated balancing act worth understanding.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bighorn River Fishing Report (St. Xavier) — March 11, 2026: Windy Week, Strong Nymphing on Sowbugs & Scuds, Plus Streamers

The Bighorn near St. Xavier is setting up for a productive week despite strong winds. Expect slightly warmer temps than Bozeman, consistent trout feeding on sowbugs and scuds, and surprisingly solid streamer action. Here’s the March 11, 2026 update from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, plus the nymph pairs and streamer patterns producing now.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Food Coma Phenomenon: Why Bears (and Humans) Crash After a Big Meal

From berry-stuffed bears to hunters nodding off at daybreak, the “eat big, pass out” pattern shows up across species. Here’s why food comas look so similar in the wild and at home—and how the same instincts can kick in when calories are plentiful.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Central Montana game wardens report an increase in illegally taken mountain lions

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wardens reported a rise in illegally harvested mountain lions in central Montana in 2025, including hunters who shot lions first and only purchased hunting licenses afterward.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Smoked Salmon Ice Cream From Fort Peck? This Surprisingly Good Recipe Is Worth the Dare

Fort Peck Lake anglers are getting creative with their catch: smoked salmon ice cream. It’s cold, creamy, lightly smoky, and finished with lemon and dill for a subtle savory twist—an adventurous dessert to share after a long day on the water.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hipcamp’s 2025 Best in North Dakota RV Park: Basecamp for Theodore Roosevelt NP, Makoshika & the Enchanted Highway

American RV Park is a veteran-owned, no-frills RV stop near Dickinson—about 25 minutes from Theodore Roosevelt National Park and within easy reach of Makoshika State Park, the Enchanted Highway, off-road trails, golf, fishing, and local events. It’s also the only North Dakota RV park that advertises a permanent on-site Certified RV Technician & Inspector for extra peace of mind while you explore.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Hunter Education Classes (2026): Spring & Summer Dates in Central and Eastern MT + How to Register

Ready to hunt in Montana? Montana FWP is listing in-person hunter education classes and online-student field days across central and eastern Montana this spring and summer. Seats can fill fast, and students must be registered before class begins—here’s how to sign up plus the full schedule of dates and towns.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Walleye Alfredo With Crispy Fried Walleye Bites: The Creamy Camp (or RV) Pasta Recipe Anglers Crave

Turn today’s walleye into a comfort-food win: creamy Alfredo, al dente fettuccine, and golden fried walleye bites. Easy enough for an RV or campsite kitchen, rich enough to feel restaurant-worthy—plus optional mushrooms and olives for an upgrade.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP: LMU 422 Will Close to Male Mountain Lion Hunting After Sunset on March 12, 2026

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has ordered LMU 422 closed to all hunting of male mountain lions one-half hour after sunset on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Check the official quota status page for the latest details.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Where Trophy Whitetails Come From: Boone and Crockett Data Ranks the Top U.S. States (Plus Montana’s Big-Buck Potential)

Montana’s river bottoms and ranch country can grow gnarly whitetails—but Boone and Crockett’s latest record book shows exactly which states consistently turn out the biggest bucks. Here’s what the 17,000-entry data says about America’s top trophy whitetail destinations, from Wisconsin to the Midwest powerhouses and a few surprise standouts.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Jefferson River Fishing Report (Early Spring 2026): Where to Find Trout, Best Nymphs, and the Afternoon Bite

The Jefferson River is fishing tough but doable in early spring. Slow down, get deep in softer inside water, and plan around late morning through mid-afternoon. Here’s the latest Jefferson River report from Fins and Feathers (2/5 on March 9, 2026), including the nymph and streamer patterns producing now.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

5 Weird Bass Fishing Lures That Actually Catch Big Largemouth (Video)

Bass anglers will try almost anything to trigger a strike—and sometimes the strangest-looking baits are the ones that get crushed. Here are five of the “weirdest” bass fishing lures anglers swear by, according to Get Ur Fish On. Watch the video to see them all.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bozeman Early Spring Trout Fishing Report (March 9, 2026): Best Techniques, Flies, and Peak Time Windows

Early spring trout fishing near Bozeman is improving week by week as rivers transition out of winter mode. Here’s what’s working right now—best time of day, where trout are holding, and the nymph and streamer setups producing on the Gallatin, Madison (upper/lower), and Yellowstone as of March 9, 2026 (5/5).