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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.
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NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26
Read More: NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26The Murphy lake derby is canceled, but several others remain active. Ice conditions vary, with good fishing reported for perch, salmon, and pike across various lakes. Stay safe on the ice.
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Forget Ice Cleats? Here’s How to Make Them Yourself!
Read More: Forget Ice Cleats? Here’s How to Make Them Yourself!Forgetting ice cleats can happen, but making your own is a cost-effective alternative. It’s simple, customizable, and can ensure safety on icy surfaces without relying on store-bought options.
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The Tuck Away: Unusual Marine Harvesting Incident
Read More: The Tuck Away: Unusual Marine Harvesting IncidentA woman was cited for illegally taking two abalones from Van Damme State Park after hiding one in her pants, raising concerns about seafood smuggling amid California residents relocating to Montana.
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Elk captured on the Crow Reservation test negative for brucellosis
Read More: Elk captured on the Crow Reservation test negative for brucellosisMontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, with the Crow Tribe, captured 99 elk to study migration and brucellosis presence. GPS collars were fitted to track their movement and inform wildlife management decisions.
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Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: Cheesy Elk Skillet Lasagna
Read More: Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: Cheesy Elk Skillet LasagnaKokanee Quinn presents a unique elk skillet lasagna recipe that elevates comfort food with layers of ground elk, three cheeses, and no-boil noodles, all in one pan for easy cleanup.
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Flathead Lake Dam Decisions: How Ripple Effects Travel Downriver to Portland
Read More: Flathead Lake Dam Decisions: How Ripple Effects Travel Downriver to PortlandBy popular demand, we’re running last week’s in-depth podcast episode for a second week. Guest Brian Lipscomb explains how what happens at Flathead Lake—especially at the dam—can ripple through the Flathead River system and influence ecosystems, communities, recreation, and agriculture far beyond the lakeshore.
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Understanding Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Through History
Read More: Understanding Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Through HistoryMontana’s history encompasses a vibrant legacy shaped by diverse communities, emphasizing wildlife conservation and the state’s iconic landscapes, while educational efforts continue to promote responsible stewardship for future generations.
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The Dramatic Dating Ritual of Bald Eagles
Read More: The Dramatic Dating Ritual of Bald EaglesBald Eagles engage in a dramatic courtship ritual called “cartwheeling,” where they lock talons and freefall, testing their compatibility and strength to ensure only the most committed pairs breed.
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Dam bypass channel changes Lower Yellowstone River fishing
Read More: Dam bypass channel changes Lower Yellowstone River fishingA new bypass channel allows fish to navigate around Intake Diversion Dam, significantly increasing walleye populations in the Lower Yellowstone River and enhancing local fishing experiences over the last four years.
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Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26
Read More: Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26Despite warm weather, ice conditions remain stable with 7-13 inches in various areas. Fishing activity is slowing, but decent catches persist. Caution is advised as temperatures are expected to drop soon.
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Easy Cheesy Venison Bombs Recipe
Read More: Easy Cheesy Venison Bombs RecipeAs hunting season approaches, families can utilize leftover venison by making cheesy venison bombs, a simple and flavorful dish combining ground venison, cheese, and bacon for a delicious meal.
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The Lasting Impact of Youth Trapping Camps
Read More: The Lasting Impact of Youth Trapping CampsThe 2015 story on the “No-Name Gang” highlights the lasting benefits of teaching youth trapping, instilling responsibility, ethics, and conservation values.
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Captivating Taxidermy: The Art of Realistic Wildlife Displays
Read More: Captivating Taxidermy: The Art of Realistic Wildlife DisplaysA striking black bear mount on a loft railing showcases expert taxidermy craftsmanship. This art form has evolved, capturing lifelike motion and personality, blending biology and sculpture since the 1800s.
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Current Fishing Conditions on the Lower Clark Fork River 2.10.26
Read More: Current Fishing Conditions on the Lower Clark Fork River 2.10.26The Lower Clark Fork River is fishable, with water temperatures around 45 degrees. Nymphing and streamers are recommended. Expect cool weather and a rain-snow mix this weekend.
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Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the Ice
Read More: Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the IceWhat started as just another drop through the ice quickly turned into something much bigger for angler Don Wilkins. Almost […]
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Kootenai River Fishing Conditions: February Update
Read More: Kootenai River Fishing Conditions: February UpdateThe Kootenai River is currently fishable with flows at 4,000 cfs and water temperatures around 45 degrees. Focus on subsurface presentations and streamers for better trout catches this week.
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New Backcountry Camping Rules at Beartooth WMA
Read More: New Backcountry Camping Rules at Beartooth WMAMontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will no longer allow caching supplies at Beartooth Wildlife Management Area, enforcing a leave-no-trace policy starting May 15 for visitors during hunting season.
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Tongue River Marina Ice Update 2.10.26
Read More: Tongue River Marina Ice Update 2.10.26Ice conditions at Tongue River Marina are unstable, with melting shoreline ice and only an inch of edge ice. Anglers are advised to exercise caution until temperatures drop and conditions improve.
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Tribal Rights and Bison Grazing: The Montana Debate
Read More: Tribal Rights and Bison Grazing: The Montana DebateAmerican Prairie opposes the BLM’s proposal to revoke grazing permits for bison in Montana, affecting policy and tribal rights, prompting legal action and potential impacts nationwide on bison management.
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Dillon, MT Beaverhead River Fishing Report 2.9.26
Read More: Dillon, MT Beaverhead River Fishing Report 2.9.26Recent fishing conditions on the Beaverhead have been challenging due to low flows and clear water. Success requires stealth and patience, with anglers advised to use longer leaders and fish deeper with specific nymphs.
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Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MT
Read More: Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MTFirst Lake near Havre has ample open water according to social media reports, with locals encouraging boat use. Fresno Lake has also opened, indicating early opportunities for fishing.
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Quick and Simple Walleye Breakfast Dish
Read More: Quick and Simple Walleye Breakfast DishTransform walleye into a delicious breakfast with simple ingredients: fillets, eggs, and mozzarella. This straightforward recipe highlights clean flavors, proving that good food doesn’t need to be complex.
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Enroll in Spring 2026 Montana Hunter Safety Classes
Read More: Enroll in Spring 2026 Montana Hunter Safety ClassesMontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks offers various hunter education options this spring, including in-person classes and online courses, required for hunters born after January 1, 1985. Classes fill quickly.
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Identifying the Animal: Wolf vs. Coyote Controversy
Read More: Identifying the Animal: Wolf vs. Coyote ControversyThe internet is doing what it does best—arguing. The clip below from Colorado is making the rounds and has some […]
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An Epic Ice Fishing Moment: Catching a Trophy Pike
Read More: An Epic Ice Fishing Moment: Catching a Trophy PikeIce fishing can lead to unforgettable experiences, like catching a trophy pike. Underwater footage captures the excitement, showcasing the thrilling moment from below the ice to its triumphant pull.
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Michigan’s Black Lake Sturgeon Season Ends in Record Time
Read More: Michigan’s Black Lake Sturgeon Season Ends in Record TimeThe sturgeon fishing season on Black Lake, Michigan, lasted only 48 minutes, with six fish caught shortly after it began, making it technically longer than last year’s 17-minute season.
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Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow
Read More: Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in GlasgowThe 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow attracted 150 participants despite warm weather, featuring competitions and prizes, including a $2,000 win for a 5.34-pound pike and free rods for youth anglers.
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February 2026 Fishing Report: Glacier National Park & Flathead Valley
Read More: February 2026 Fishing Report: Glacier National Park & Flathead ValleyFebruary fishing in Glacier National Park and Flathead Valley is unusually favorable due to mild temperatures and low snow, with anglers successfully using nymphs and streamers in altered winter conditions.
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Hunting and trapping for bobcats to close in Region 4 on Wednesday
Read More: Hunting and trapping for bobcats to close in Region 4 on WednesdayBobcat hunting and trapping in Montana Region 4 ends on February 11 at midnight. Hunters should check quota status online to ensure compliance with regulations before the season closes.
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Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26
Read More: Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26Anglers should exercise caution due to varying ice conditions. Fishing yields include rainbows at Canyon Ferry and Helena Valley, while Hauser and Holter have mostly open water and unstable ice.
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Unforgettable Ice Fishing: A 32-Inch Walleye Experience
Read More: Unforgettable Ice Fishing: A 32-Inch Walleye ExperienceAn ice angler captures a thrilling moment, pulling a massive 32-inch walleye while his kids watch, creating lasting memories and sharing the joy of fishing together.