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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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Understanding Flathead Lake’s Ripple Effects
Read More: Understanding Flathead Lake’s Ripple EffectsDue to popular demand, last week’s insightful podcast episode on Flathead Lake’s dam and its extensive impact on ecosystems and communities will be available for another week. Tune in to explore these connections.
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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.
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Pike Slams Into Glass While Hunting Goldfish Underwater
Read More: Pike Slams Into Glass While Hunting Goldfish UnderwaterAn 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
Read More: California Bans Fur Trapping, but Not Fur SalesCalifornia 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
Read More: Hunt Ends in Close Call With Wounded DeerA 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
Read More: Podcast: The Flathead Lake Dam Energy Production with Brian LipscombThe 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
Read More: Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: Wisconsin-Style Venison Brats and Hard-Cider Kraut RecipeKokanee 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
Read More: Fort Peck, MT Duck Creek Ice Update 2.6.26Lakeride 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
Read More: Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26Ice 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
Read More: 12 Creative Duct Tape Uses for Fishing TripsDuct 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
Read More: Yellowstone cougars change diets, behavior to avoid wolvesIn 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
Read More: Game wardens seek Information on Unlawfully Killed Bull Elk West of RoundupMontana 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
Read More: The Magic of Kids with Their First FishTaking 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
Read More: Fort Peck’s Duck Creek Ice Report 2.5.26Lakeridge 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
Read More: Livingtson, MT Yellowstone River Fishing Report 2.5.26Winter 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
Read More: The Allure of Brown Trout Fishing in MontanaBrown 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
Read More: Appreciating Unique Deer: Beyond Hunting SeasonsBefore 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
Read More: Best Flies for Missouri River Winter FishingAccording 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
Read More: Surprising Escape from Ski Lift Danger: Safety Tips for SkiersA 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
Read More: Latest Fort Peck Reservoir Water Elevation Forecast 2.4.26Water 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.