Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Mystery Fish Kill: Black Crappie Die-Off Reported at Nelson Reservoir
Montana FWP is investigating a black crappie fish kill at Nelson Reservoir, prompted by reports of dead fish. Biologists are analyzing samples to determine the cause, with no current consumption advisories.
Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF SPRING BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMU 700 WITH HOUNDS
Montana's Black Bear Management Unit 700 will prohibit black bear hunting with hounds after sunset on April 19, 2026, reopening for hound training on April 20, 2026.
Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Optimal Fishing Strategies for Kootenai River’s High Flow Season
The Kootenai River's flow surged to 20,000 cfs due to April rains, creating adaptable fishing conditions. Anglers should focus on nymphing deep water and expect hatches of Baetis and Caddis.
Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Dust Off the Engine: Lake Elmo’s Giving You a Free Pass (Sort Of)
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks allows gas motors at Lake Elmo on May 9 and 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., for boat inspections and safety checks before the fishing season.
Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn River Trout Numbers Rise Amid Grim Water Forecast
Low water levels on Montana's Bighorn River threaten trout spawning, despite healthy fish populations. Experts call for action to preserve habitats as drought risks increase and fishing restrictions may be implemented.
Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Best Walleye Spots at Fort Peck from Don Wilkins
Walleye fishing at Fort Peck remains productive, especially near the Dam and Duck Creek. Effective methods include using Marble Eye jigs and dragging fathead minnows on various jigs.
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Unlocking Your Trapping License in Montana: What You Need to Know
Montana trapping licenses open April 15. Hunters must obtain a separate license, take a trapper education course, or show previous experience. Nonresidents need a notarized affidavit for reciprocity.
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana FWP Draw Results: Check Your Deer and Elk Permits
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released the results for deer, elk, and nonresident combination licenses. Hunters can check results online or by phone, with upcoming application deadlines approaching.
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Record Walleye Egg Collection at Fort Peck: What’s Happening?
The fish are officially “swiping right” at Fort Peck, and the Big Dry Arm is currently the place to be. […]
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Glacier National Park Area Fishing: The April Update
Early spring runoff in the Flathead Valley has led to higher water levels and good fishing conditions near Glacier National Park. Anglers are encouraged to adapt to changing waters for success.
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
The 900-Pound Security Blanket: Why Every Hunter Needs an Emotional Support Elk
A new therapeutic trend involves hunting bull elk, which serve as unconventional emotional support animals. Their presence offers stress relief, physical engagement, and non-judgmental listening, successfully blending therapy with hunting.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Seafood Snack Evolution: White Fish Nachos
Fish Nachos reinvent traditional bar food by incorporating mild white fish on crispy tortilla chips, topped with gourmet cheeses, fresh vegetables, and a citrus-garlic sauce for a sophisticated culinary experience.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catch Trophy Trout in Murky Yellowstone Waters
The Yellowstone River currently has a flow of 4,110 CFS with murky conditions, yet offers productive fishing for trophy trout. Anglers can target larger fish before upcoming runoff increases.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why Mother Nature is the Ultimate Wedding Crasher
Planning an outdoor wedding involves unpredictability; nature may disrupt your perfect day with surprises like rock slides or sudden weather changes. Embracing these moments creates authentic, memorable stories.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Mid-April Angling Outlook: Navigating the Pre-Runoff Transition in Western Montana
Lightweight Fly Shop advises anglers in Western Montana to adapt as the Skwala hatch wanes. Opportunities persist with BWOs and March Browns, especially in clear waters of the West Fork.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Walleye Spawn: What to Expect in 2026
The 2026 walleye season at Fort Peck has begun amidst unpredictable weather. Biologists report rising water temperatures, capturing primarily male walleye, with hopes for a productive spawn in warmer days ahead.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Humanoid Robots: The Future of Animal Control?
And so it begins…or cintinues… Residents of Warsaw recently learned that the future of neighborhood watch isn’t a retired veteran […]
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Free Fishing Day for Kids at Ninepipes Reservoir
Catch the fun at the Ninepipes Kid’s Fishing Day on May 2nd! Free for K-12 students in Charlo, MT. No license or registration required.
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Top Fishing Spots by Chancy in Flathead: April 2026
This week’s fishing report highlights the best spots around Flathead, including East Bay for perch, Bitterroot for trout, and various lakes for bass and pike, ensuring a successful outing.
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
2026 Spring Mack Days Mid-Event Update for Week 5
The 2026 Spring Mack Days event is halfway through with 20,527 lake trout caught. With the $10,000 tagged fish still elusive, participants have until May 9th to join the conservation effort.
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Experience the Best Smallmouth Fishing in Montana
Captain Lee of Fish On Charters excels at locating elusive smallmouth bass, ensuring an active fishing experience. For an exceptional day on the water, contact him at 406-844-FISH.
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Spring Woods Stereotypes: The 4 Faces of Turkey Season
From old-school purists to aggressive stalkers, spring turkey season brings out every type of hunter. Discover the four distinct archetypes you'll encounter in the timber and how they fill tags.
Apr 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bison Grazing Rights at Risk: A Land Use Controversy
The U.S. Department of the Interior's proposed policy favors cattle over bison on federal lands, leading to significant economic, tribal sovereignty, and ecological concerns amidst formal protests from various stakeholders.
Apr 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ultimate Guide to Fishing at Holter, Canyon Ferry, and Hauser
Local fishing spots are thriving, with excellent catches of rainbow trout at Holter and walleye at Lake Helena and Canyon Ferry. Diverse bait options are leading to successful outings for anglers.
Apr 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Clark Fork River: Access During Bridge Repairs
Starting April 15, the Clark Fork river area near Triple Bridges will close for bridge replacement, affecting access but allowing river floating. Closures persist until Fall 2027 due to construction.
Apr 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why Your “Horse Walks Into a Bar” Joke is a Bad Idea in Three Forks
A man in Three Forks, Montana, humorously attempted to order a beer on his horse in 2026 but was denied service, highlighting the importance of keeping livestock outside bars.
Apr 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Heavier Metal: The 2026 Guide to Not Missing That Tom
Outdoor Life’s Alex Robinson reveals that while pricey TSS loads dominate at 60 yards, "the shooter is almost always the weakest part" and high-tech ammo can't replace old-fashioned woodsmanship.
Apr 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Move Over, Potatoes: Idaho Finds a More Kinetic State Symbol
Idaho has officially designated hunting as its state sport, driven by nine-year-old Betty Grandy. Voters will also select an official state gun from a proposed list in November.
Apr 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Fishing Report by Capital Sports 4.9.26
Spring fishing in the Helena valley is improving, with notable action in Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter lakes. Anglers report success with various baits as fish awaken and prepare to spawn.
Apr 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Dry Fly Action Is Heating Up on the Missouri!
The Missouri River Ranch welcomes spring fishing with rising trout and hatches, as anglers prepare for Opening Week. Expect good catches with midges, BWOs, and various nymph patterns.
Apr 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Flathead Flow: Diving into the Data with Eve James on the MT Outdoor Podcast
Rigger's podcast features Energy Keepers' Eve James discussing unusual seasonal conditions and providing insights on water levels. Listeners can access informative content and submit questions through available links.
Apr 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Kokanee Quinn Found the Secret to Modern Walleye: Tomatoes, Olives, and Zest
Kokanee Quinn shares a quick Mediterranean walleye pasta recipe using fresh cherry tomatoes and anchovies for a savory flavor, creating a gourmet meal in about 30 minutes.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana FWP SCORP report highlights recreation challenges
Flathead County in Montana is projected to grow by nearly 30% by 2040, increasing pressure on outdoor recreation areas. Public lands drive this growth, highlighting the need for improved access and facilities across the state.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ice Out, Rods Out: The Spring 2026 Report by Madison River Outfitters
Early spring fishing opportunities are emerging in Montana as ice melts, with lakes and rivers opening for activities. Expect good hatches and varied conditions, particularly on Madison and surrounding waters.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Fishing Report for April 10, 2026
Fort Peck fishing is thriving despite cold weather. Walleye are found in 5-14 feet, while Lake Trout prefer 25-35 feet. Use specific jigs and trolling speeds for success.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone River and Livingston Area Fishing Report – April 9, 2026
Spring fishing in Yellowstone Valley is thriving as river temperatures approach 50°F, awakening trout. Anglers can target rainbows with nymphs and dry flies, especially in mid-afternoon.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Waking Up the Mo: Montana’s Early Season is Officially On Fire
Spring in Montana marks prime fly fishing season on the Missouri River, with healthy trout feeding aggressively. April offers peaceful conditions and a special for guided trips at Montana Fishing Guides.
Apr 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Peace Out, Pesky Stickers: Montana’s Boating Bureaucracy Just Walked the Plank
Montana has eliminated the requirement for colorful boat validation stickers, streamlining vessel registration to a one-time licensing process, allowing owners more leisure time on the water without bureaucratic hassles.
Apr 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing the Kootenai River: 20,000 CFS Survival Guide
The Kootenai River is currently high but clear, offering good fishing conditions. Focus on nymphing in deep, soft water for trout, while spring hatches are beginning to emerge.
Apr 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Upper Salmon River Steelhead Fishing Report, April 8, 2026
The Upper Salmon River fishing report for April 8, 2026, highlights excellent catch rates, improved river conditions, and significant hatchery trapping numbers, making it an ideal time for anglers to visit.
Apr 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bacon, Bullets, and Badassery: The Night Marguerite McDonald Schooled a Grizzly
In 1964, Marguerite McDonald defended her remote Montana ranch by solo-shooting an 850-pound grizzly. When her husband later tripped over the carcass and panicked, she famously called him a "goddamn fool."
Apr 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Case of the Twisted Trophy: Nature’s Face-Leaning Buck
Meet the buck that took "crooked" to a new level. From trauma to rare genetic quirks, this skull proves nature doesn't always follow the rules—it just creates better stories.
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Translocated female grizzly emerges from den with two cubs
A female grizzly bear, released in Wyoming, emerged with two cubs, demonstrating successful genetic exchange between ecosystems. This effort marks a significant milestone in grizzly bear management and conservation.
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Logging Near Whitefish Hits a Legal Roadblock
A federal judge has paused the Round Star Project due to the U.S. Forest Service's failure to adequately protect the Canada lynx and analyze cumulative project impacts, requiring revisions before moving forward.
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Navigating Rock Creek’s Spring Surge as it Scores a 4/5 for Fishability
Rock Creek offers ideal fishing conditions despite high water. Focus on nymphing and deep strategies with effective flies as hatches begin. Watch for weather changes affecting creek flows this week.
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Load of Wolves: The “Cheat Code” for Professional Fur Handling
Trapper Tyler Freel reveals the ultimate "work smarter" hack for Outdoor Life: using a washing machine to turn bloody, matted predator hides into pristine, market-ready fur—just don't tell your spouse.
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Wednesday Morning Marmot: Why We’re All Just Large Rodents in Business Casual
We’ve all been there. It’s 9:01 AM on a Monday…or a Wednesday, appropriately. You have your coffee in one hand […]
Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cold Fronts and Deep Buckets: The Bozeman “Slow-Mo” Report
Recent snowy conditions have shifted Bozeman’s fly fishing from spring excitement back to winter tactics. Anglers should focus on deep water and slow presentations to entice trout, which are currently inactive.
Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Restoration Efforts Set to Begin at Salish Point: Protecting Flathead Lake’s Shoreline
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Polson City will begin the Salish Point Shoreline Restoration Project on April 13 to combat erosion and preserve local ecology while maintaining public access.
Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Successful Restoration of St. Mary Canal: Key Milestone Achieved
The Milk River Project has successfully resumed operations after 658 days, replacing major siphons and gradually increasing water flow, marking a significant regional achievement.