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Dam bypass channel changes Lower Yellowstone River fishing
A 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
Despite 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
As 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
The 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
A 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
The 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
What 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
The 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
Montana 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
Ice 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
American 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
Recent 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
First 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
Transform 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
Montana 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
The 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
Ice 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
The 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
The 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
February 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
Bobcat 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
Anglers 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
An 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.
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Pike Slams Into Glass While Hunting Goldfish Underwater
An underwater video captures a pike slamming into a glass container while attempting to attack a goldfish, creating a tense and surprising moment between predator instinct and an invisible barrier.
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California Bans Fur Trapping, but Not Fur Sales
California has banned recreational animal trapping and fur sales, becoming the first state to do so. Supporters view this as progress, while critics see it as a largely symbolic gesture.
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Hunt Ends in Close Call With Wounded Deer
A hunter’s close call with a wounded buck is a powerful reminder that recovery can be dangerous and patience matters. Never assume an animal is dead—safety must always come first.
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Podcast: The Flathead Lake Dam Energy Production with Brian Lipscomb
The Montana Outdoor Podcast features an insightful discussion with Brian Lipscomb about the history and significance of the Séliš Ksanka Ql̓ispé Hydroelectric Project and its impact on Flathead Lake.
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Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: Wisconsin-Style Venison Brats and Hard-Cider Kraut Recipe
Kokanee Quinn shares a Wisconsin-style venison brat recipe featuring brats simmered in beer and onions, finished over fire, topped with tangy hard-cider kraut—perfect for outdoor cooking.
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Fort Peck, MT Duck Creek Ice Update 2.6.26
Lakeride Lodging advises caution with current ice conditions, reporting approximately 5.5 inches of ice but acknowledging cracks and open water. Walking is recommended for safety while fishing.
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Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26
Ice conditions and fishing varied this week in Rock Creek and McGuire. Reports noted strong northern bites in shallow water but melting shorelines and changing ice thickness require caution for safety.
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12 Creative Duct Tape Uses for Fishing Trips
Duct tape is an invaluable fishing tool, offering twelve innovative uses such as repairing gear, waterproofing shoes, securing items, and improving grip, making it essential for any fishing trip.
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Yellowstone cougars change diets, behavior to avoid wolves
In Yellowstone, wolves and cougars clash because wolves steal elk kills, sometimes killing cougars. A long-term GPS study shows they’re rivals without reward, unlike smaller predators that scavenge for food.
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Game wardens seek Information on Unlawfully Killed Bull Elk West of Roundup
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are seeking the public’s help in gathering information on an unlawfully killed bull elk found on private property and left to waste. Only the head and backstraps were removed from the bull and all other meat was wasted.
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The Magic of Kids with Their First Fish
Taking kids ice fishing fosters excitement and connection to nature, emphasizing the joy of their first catch over limits or gear. Such moments create lasting memories and build confidence.
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Fort Peck’s Duck Creek Ice Report 2.5.26
Lakeridge Lodging reports about 6 inches of ice on Duck Creek at Fort Peck Reservoir. Shorelines are becoming unstable, urging safe walk-on access and caution during winter activities.
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Livingtson, MT Yellowstone River Fishing Report 2.5.26
Winter conditions persist in Yellowstone, with frigid water temperatures and sluggish fish behavior. Nymphing is most effective, while ice and wind complicate fishing. Stay alert to changing conditions.
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The Allure of Brown Trout Fishing in Montana
Brown trout are the fish equivalent of that quiet guy in the corner who turns out to be way tougher—and […]
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Appreciating Unique Deer: Beyond Hunting Seasons
Before anyone checks the calendar or reaches for regulations—no, it is not Montana’s general big game season, and no, this […]
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Best Flies for Missouri River Winter Fishing
According to a report by The River’s Edge on February 2nd, Holter is cruising at 3560 CFS, and honestly, the […]
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Surprising Escape from Ski Lift Danger: Safety Tips for Skiers
A terrifying ski lift malfunction left a 12-year-old dangling high above the ground—but she walked away uninjured, reminding skiers that safety, preparation, and a little luck still matter on the slopes.
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Latest Fort Peck Reservoir Water Elevation Forecast 2.4.26
Water elevation on Fort Peck Reservoir in Central and Eastern Montana will depend on upcoming moisture levels and water releases from the Fort Peck Dam, alongside precipitation forecasts.
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Skiing in Montana: Latest Snow Reports & Conditions
Montana’s snowpack is only 32% of normal, significantly impacting ski conditions. OnTheSnow provides detailed reports on snow depth, open runs, and weather for local resorts.
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Ladies Night Done Right: Five Valleys RMEF Ladies Night Out Banquet
Join the Five Valleys RMEF Ladies Night Out Banquet on February 7th at the Missoula County Fairgrounds. Enjoy dinner, raffles, and auctions while supporting wildlife conservation. Tickets available now!
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Clark Canyon Reservoir Ice Report 2.3.26
At Clark Canyon Reservoir, reports from anglers in ice fishing groups are stating that ice conditions are beginning to change. […]
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Join the Fun: Denise Schlegel Memorial Fishing Tournament 2026
The 3rd Annual Margo’s March Madness Fishing Tournament takes place February 28 and March 1, 2026, at Bitterroot Lake, promoting community, family fun, and honoring Denise Schlegel.
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Visit Gates of the Mountains: Open Water Fishing
The Gates of the Mountains opens today at 7:30 a.m. for fishing, but visitors must bring exact change due to seasonal closures of facilities. Weather-related updates will be provided.
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Catch Big Fish and Win Prizes at Georgetown Lake
If you’ve ever looked at a fish and thought, “Yeah… that one deserves some recognition,” The Lakehouse at Georgetown Lake […]
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Idaho Poaching Case Highlights Consequences of Illegal Wildlife Harvest
An Idaho poaching investigation revealed illegal deer baiting and a closed-season moose harvest, highlighting the serious consequences of violating Idaho Fish and Game laws.
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Reward offered for information on illegally introduced pike at Kalispell’s Pine Grove Pond
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is investigating the illegal introduction of northern pike into Pine Grove Pond, threatening its trout fishery. Anglers should report and remove pike to preserve the ecosystem.
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Bighorn River, MT Fishing Report for 2.1.26
Winter fishing on the Bighorn River is effective with trout lying deep. Key tactics include deep nymphing and slow streamers, focusing on stealth and depth due to cold conditions. Rainbows and browns are selective.