Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Happy Hour Bar Views: Hebgen Lake’s Water Level Climb
Hebgen Lake's elevation is rising, currently at 6,530.53 feet, signaling a positive change after a dry winter. Happy Hour Bar’s views reflect hope for the upcoming summer season.
Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missed the draw? Montana’s nonresident backup list opens May 1
Montana’s Nonresident Alternate’s List opens for a second chance at hunting tags from May 1 to June 1. Join for free, with no risk to preference points, and wait for possible openings.
Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
April Fishing Insights for Yellowstone River
The Mother's Day caddis hatch is delayed due to cold weather affecting river conditions. While fish are still active, clearer waters are anticipated. Access updates and fishing recommendations are provided.
Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn Canyon NRA water levels rising for Memorial Day
Water levels in Bighorn, Boysen, and Buffalo Bill reservoirs are significantly low due to a dry winter, impacting boating and fishing. Predictions indicate reduced runoff and earlier peak snowpack, affecting recreational access.
Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing Report by Don Wilkins: Walleye and Lakers at Fort Peck
Walleye fishing at Fort Peck is weather-dependent, with better success in sunny conditions. Effective baits included Walleye Nations jigs and Kietech paddle tails, while lakers were caught trolling at shallow depths.
Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
DPHHS, DEQ, FWP release PFAS fish consumption advisories and study results
Montana authorities released new PFAS fish consumption advisories due to detectable pollution levels in select waterbodies. The recommendations aim to inform the public about potential health risks while promoting safe fish consumption.
Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
The “Upgraded Childhood” Comfort Bowl: Smoked Fish Mac ’n Cheese
The Smoked Fish Mac recipe transforms childhood comfort food into an adult gourmet dish, combining smoked fish, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy topping, perfect for cold weather and easy preparation.
Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Join the Fun at the Walleyes Unlimited Membership Drive!
On May 9th, join the Upper Missouri River Chapter of Walleyes Unlimited at American Legion Post 42 for a Membership Drive & Fundraiser featuring free dinner, kids’ fishing rods, and conservation efforts.
Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Gallatin: Clear Water, Cloudy Forecasts, and Midday Magic
The Gallatin River is ideal for fishing now, with clear waters and active trout. Focus on nymphing during peak hours, adapting strategies to changing conditions and varying bug hatches.
Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catch Cash Prizes at Montana’s 2026 Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament!
The 2026 Montana Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament invites anglers to register. Aiming for 175 teams, participants can win a $20,000 grand prize and enter Random Weight Pots for additional chances.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn Intel: St. Xavier’s Midday Magic
To escape Bozeman's chill, fish the Bighorn River from 11 AM to 4 PM using nymphing techniques. A BWO hatch is approaching, so focus on slow water and effective flies.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
California Doubles Down: Why Hunters Are Getting a Second Shot at Black Bears
California has approved a new amendment allowing bear hunters to obtain two black bear tags annually, responding to a growing bear population and missed harvest quotas, enhancing wildlife management efforts.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone or Yellow-tape? Man Sues Over ‘Bureaucratic’ Criminal Charges
Oregonian Tate Pulliam faces court over fishing and driving violations in Yellowstone, challenging the validity of park regulations created by officials rather than Congress, arguing against overcriminalization.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Carson Bender: Successful Turkey Caller, Accidental Bobcat Whisperer
Carson Bender’s expert calling lured a bobcat instead of a bird, leaving him with shoulder scratches and a wild story before missing a turkey and heading to the doctor’s office.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hot Under the Collar: The East Side Fire Update
The East Side Fire near Red Lodge, sparked on April 20, has burned 1,600 acres with no containment. Firefighters are actively working to control the blaze amidst challenging weather conditions.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck’s Walleye “Egg-stravaganza” Hits High Gear
The 2026 walleye spawning season at Fort Peck Reservoir is thriving, with nearly 44 million eggs collected. Biologist Heath Headley reports favorable conditions, aiming for a target of 50 million before the weather turns cold.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Series of Montana poaching crimes leads to lifetime loss of hunting and fishing privileges for Tennessee man
Apr 21, 2026 3:54 PM HAMILTON– Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens report that Jerry “Trey” Truitt III of Tennessee […]
Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Washington Wolf Population Soars 17% in 2025
Washington's gray wolf population rose to 270 in 2025, reflecting a 17% increase, yet faces movement challenges south of I-90. Most packs coexist peacefully with livestock, showing effective management.
Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Rock Creek: The Crowd is Here, but the Fish are Still Biting
Spring fishing at Rock Creek is heating up, attracting crowds. With varied bug hatches and murkier waters, nymphing and streamer fishing are recommended strategies for successful outings.
Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Official Notice: Spring Black Bear Closure for BMU 411
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has closed the Spring Black Bear season in Management Unit 411 effective April 23, 2026, transitioning to a hound training season starting April 24, 2026.
Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Montana Pheasant Hunt Turned Grizzly
Imagine waking up thinking about bagging a few pheasants and ending the day with 320 stitches and a crazy story […]
Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Top Anglers Shine in Week 6 of Mack Days Fishing 2026
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes report a successful week six of the 2026 Spring Mack Days Fishing Event, with 25,839 fish turned in and only three weeks remaining until the May 9th conclusion.
Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Old-School Gear vs. Modern Tech: A Showdown
The Day Modern Tech Met Old-School Iron In the battle between the 21st century’s most advanced communication tool and a […]
Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF SPRING BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMU 510
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission will close hunting for all black bears in Unit 510 after sunset on April 22, 2026. Hound training season will start April 23, 2026.
Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Top Fishing Spots in Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter
Fishing reports from Missouri River reservoirs highlight successful spots and techniques for anglers, including hot rainbow trout action at Holter and deeper walleye and perch opportunities at Canyon Ferry and Hauser.
Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Spring Fishing in Montana: River Reports
Spring weather in Montana is unpredictable, yet fishing is thriving. The Flathead and Missouri Rivers are producing well, with dry flies attracting active fish. Ideal conditions persist for anglers.
Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri Guides Put a $15K Bounty on Paddlefish Vandal
It’s a rare day when a fishing story out of Missouri makes waves all the way up in Big Sky […]
Apr 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cracking the Bass Code: How Water Temp Dictates Your Catch
Pro angler Shaye Baker outlines how water temperature influences bass behavior throughout seasons, guiding anglers to effectively target their locations based on thermal patterns and fish activity.
Apr 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Distinctive Features of Coyotes and Gray Wolves
Coyotes are compact, agile canines weighing 30-45 pounds, while gray wolves are larger, heavier apex predators over 100 pounds. Understanding their differences enhances wild encounters and promotes safety.
Apr 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
From Endangered to Managed: Wolves in the U.S. and Their Evolving Status
Wolf management in North America exhibits a split: Western states lead while the Great Lakes region remains federally protected. The Boone and Crockett Club advocates for data-driven, ethical management to ensure local control and sustainable conservation.
Apr 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Navigating Runoff Fishing on the Middle Fork Flathead 4.16.26
In mid-April 2026, the Middle Fork of the Flathead River shifts from snow to warming temperatures, impacting fishing conditions. Anglers should adapt strategies for changing water clarity and navigate pre-runoff challenges effectively.
Apr 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: A Guide to Epic Venison Burrito Bowls
Kokanee Quinn highlights Lukas Leaf’s Venison Burrito Bowl, a flavorful alternative to fast-casual options. The dish features shredded venison, smoky tinga, and fresh toppings, making meal prep versatile and fun.
Apr 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Windy Weather Slows Fort Peck Walleye Spawn Collection: April 17 Update
The annual walleye spawn collection at Fort Peck has yielded 18.6 million eggs despite recent high winds. Crews anticipate increased activity as warmer temperatures encourage female walleye to spawn.
Apr 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
MT Outdoor Podcast: Transforming Students Through Archery in Montana
This week's Montana Outdoor Podcast features host Downrigger Dale and Ryan Schmaltz discussing the impactful Archery in the Schools Program, highlighting its growth and transformative effects on students in Montana.
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.