Oct 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Some Fish Stories Are True: 12-Year-Old’s First Catch Is a Whopper
Twelve-year-old Brantley Brunelle successfully caught his first salmon, weighing 24.10 pounds, on his very first attempt. This impressive catch exemplifies the memorable experiences that Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop offers. For those aspiring to catch a notable fish, they can contact the shop for their own fishing adventure.
Oct 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Stop Blaming the Acorns! Here’s A Field Guide to Bad Hunting Excuses
Outdoor Life critiques 27 common excuses deer hunters use when hunts go awry, encouraging hunters to confront their mistakes instead of blaming external factors. The article humorously dissects excuses such as neighbor interference and challenging conditions, offering practical advice for improvement. It's a worthwhile read before heading back into the field.
Oct 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
When the fastest Thing on the Prairie, Meets Your Loaf Pan
The post highlights a delicious pronghorn meatloaf recipe from Wild Game Cuisine, inspired by recent hunting photos from Montana. It emphasizes the unique flavor of antelope and offers tips for ensuring the meatloaf stays moist, featuring cheese and drippings for added richness. Ideal for those with a successful hunting season.
Oct 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn River Report: Clearing Water and Cooling Temps
The Bighorn River is showing improved fishing conditions, with clearer water and consistent nymphing. Flows are steady at 1,600 cfs, and water temperatures around 54°F enhance streamer fishing. Use sow bugs with midges for success. Late October promises good fishing; check conditions before heading out. Visit Bighorn Troutpost for gear and meals.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Are You or Do You Know a High Schooler Who Has Opinions About MT Rivers?
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking one high school student for a two-year position on the Future Fisheries Citizen Review Panel, which influences approximately $1 million annually for fish habitat restoration projects. The student would vote on funding proposals and attend two meetings each year. Applications are open until filled.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fall Flathead Area Report: The Run Is Building
Autumn fishing in Flathead sees increasing whitefish activity, especially near the old steel and CFalls bridges. Lake trout and bass fishing are promising, while pike and crappie remain active. Check regulations and weather, and join the whitefish contest at Chancy's Fish Camp. Good luck and enjoy the season's opportunities!
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing closure on section of upper Big Hole River lifted
A fishing closure on the upper Big Hole River, from Saginaw Bridge to the North Fork confluence, has been lifted due to improved flows. The closure, which began on August 12 to address low water levels, follows the Big Hole River Drought Management Plan. Spawning-related closures still apply in other areas.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Water Turning Off at Brush Lake State Park, but the Camping Isn’t
Brush Lake State Park will discontinue potable water starting October 21, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Campers are advised to bring their own water, although dry camping will still be permitted. The park's gate will remain open for visitors throughout the season.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Western Montana Fly Report for the Week of October 18–24, 2026
Late-October fishing in Western Montana features a five-hour active period from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. due to cold morning water. Key insects include Blue-winged Olives and Mahogany Duns. Weather varies from mild to colder conditions, affecting fishing strategies. The middle and lower Bitterroot offer optimal conditions, along with the Clark Fork for dry-fly fishing.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
2026 Fall Mack Days: Week 6 Results
With three weeks remaining in the 2026 Fall Mack Days event, anglers have turned in 16,798 lake trout to support native species. $4,000 worth of tagged fish have been caught, with one worth $10,000 still available. Top competitors include Terry Krogstad and Julie Perkins, leading in their respective categories. Safety is emphasized for participants.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Fish and Wildlife Commission approves new fishing regulations during October meeting
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission approved new fishing regulations for 2027-2028, including updated limits and methods, and established a 99-year conservation easement on Hannah Ranch. They banned motorized watercraft on Mitchell Slough, reflecting public input and scientific assessment in the regulatory process. Additional topics like trout regulations and frog relocations were also addressed.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.19.26
As the boating season ends, fishing at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter Reservoirs is thriving. Walleye and rainbow trout are actively biting, with specific techniques yielding great results. The kokanee salmon snagging season continues through October, offering ample opportunities for anglers. Campgrounds are closed, and docks are removed for the year.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
October Ruby River: No Crowds, No Complaints
October on the Ruby River is an ideal time for fly-fishing, with fewer crowds and active brown trout. Anglers should focus on early baetis and streamers, especially as leaves fall. Winter shifts the strategy to nymphs and midges. Keep in mind fishing regulations for different river sections.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
When Your Trophy Case Turns Into a Court Case
Man drops a bag of cash on professional escorts for the biggest elk in Pennsylvania, and the escorts end up […]
Oct 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Blizzard Bucks Down: Heckman’s Pronghorn Hunt
Opening day got skunked, day two brought a blizzard, and somehow that’s when Walker Heckman’s Montana pronghorn season turned into […]
Oct 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck gave you a king. Here’s what to do with it before the buzz wears off.
Snagging season at Fort Peck Reservoir offers anglers a chance to catch Montana's prized Chinook salmon. Once caught, a quick meal can be prepared in just twenty minutes using chili-rubbed salmon in tortillas with slaw and lime, making for a fresh, delicious supper that doesn't require lengthy cooking methods.
Oct 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Coyote Calling for Hunters Who’ve Run Out of Ideas
During January and February, winter coyotes hunt with heightened senses, making them receptive to unconventional sounds. Hunters are encouraged to use unique distress calls like tire screeches or woodpecker sounds alongside classic techniques to attract coyotes. Unusual noises can help lure coyotes by evading their instinctive caution.
Oct 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Search for a Better Hunt: MT Outdoor Podcast Meets Region 5
The Montana Outdoor Podcast explores hunting in Region 5, featuring insights from wildlife biologist Shawn Stewart. He highlights elk hunting challenges, deer population trends, and alarming bear behavior changes. The discussion also covers other game species and encourages hunters to stay informed about regulations and wildlife management.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF BIGHORN SHEEP CLOSURE IN HD 303
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission announces the closure of the specified hunting district to all Bighorn Sheep hunting. This prohibition will be in effect beginning one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, October 17, 2026, as outlined in the legal descriptions provided.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Reminder: New HD 101-50 bull elk permit area
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announces a new bull elk permit for HD 101-50 (North Tobacco) for the 2026-2027 season, allowing only permit holders to hunt antlered elk in that area. General license holders may hunt antlered elk elsewhere in HD 101, excluding North Tobacco. Regulations are available for review.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Hemorrhagic Disease Causing Deer and Antelope Deaths in South-Central Montana
FWP reports a rise in dead and dying deer and antelope, particularly near rivers, due to hemorrhagic diseases like EHD and BT. These diseases, not harmful to humans, typically decline with colder weather. Hunters are advised not to harvest sick animals. FWP is monitoring the situation and public reporting is limited.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cloud Foundation, BLM battle in court over Pryor wild horses
U.S. District Court Judge William Mercer indicated willingness to allow the Bureau of Land Management to proceed with a wild horse gather, pending a hold on adoptions for advocacy arguments. Concerns over potential irreparable harm to the Pryor Mountain herd were discussed, along with the BLM's claims of necessary emergency actions due to poor forage conditions.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 10.16.26
This past week, fishing was fruitful for smallmouth and pike, with effective lures like hair jigs and hammered spoons. Lake trout remained deeper, requiring specific jigs for success. Salmon populations are rising in the bays, with over 300,000 eggs collected by Fish and Game, marking a positive trend.
Oct 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Draw Your Tag, Not a Blank: FWP Expands Where You Can Buy Licenses
Montana's big game hunting season begins on October 24, with early youth deer hunt on October 15-16. Hunters can purchase licenses online, at FWP offices, or through local "License Ambassador" locations. Important details include card-only transactions at ambassadors, possible fees, and options for email or E-Tag licenses through the MyFWP app.
Oct 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Calling All Callers: 12th Annual Winnett/Grass Range Coyote Derby Set for Dec. 11–13
The 12th Annual Winnett/Grass Range Coyote Derby will take place from December 11-13, 2023, at the Wrangler Bar in Grass Range, Montana. It features competitive divisions for teams of hunters, with cash prizes and side pots. The event fosters community engagement while addressing coyote-related predation issues affecting livestock.
Oct 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
The October Window: A Missouri River Fishing Report
In October, dry fly fishing on the Missouri River is promising, particularly for Blue-Winged Olives above Craig and below Cascade. Nymphing with large zonkers and attractors is effective. The river will remain a good option into late October, with potential for winter fishing. Certain flies are recommended for current conditions.
Oct 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Upper Salmon River Steelhead Fishing Report 10.14.26
Idaho Fish and Game's 2026 Upper Salmon River steelhead report indicates a historically low return at Bonneville Dam, leading to reduced bag limits of two steelhead per day. Angler effort has been light, with a catch rate of 64 hours per fish. However, 90% of the steelhead are larger 2-ocean fish, averaging 28 inches.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Sunday of antelope rifle opener cold and rainy in southeast MT, but hunters report improved antelope numbers
During the opening weekend of the antelope rifle season in southeast Montana, weather varied from sunny to cold and rainy. Harvest success for antelope hunters ranged from 53 to 61 percent across check stations, with adequate numbers reported. Upland bird hunters faced challenges due to poor bird numbers, impacting overall success rates.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Winter weather brings mixed hunter numbers and harvest for south-central Montana antelope opener
The general antelope hunting season in Montana opened on October 10, with check stations reporting varied attendance and success rates. Cold weather and snow impacted hunting, leading to fewer hunters at some stations. Upcoming youth deer hunts are scheduled for October 15-16, with regulations available online. The antelope season runs until November 8.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Where the Trout Are Hiding and What They’re Eating in the Upper Madison
The Upper Madison is currently flowing at 897 CFS, with some sections offering great fishing. Focus on the town water near Ennis, using recommended flies like Barred Mini Dungeon and Pink Frenchie for best results. For personalized advice, contact River's Edge in Bozeman, a leading outfitter.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bull Ness Monster: Congrats on a Brute of an Archery Bull
Dillon Ness successfully hunted an impressive bull elk in Montana, as showcased by Trophy Bucks and Bulls of MT. This achievement comes during a challenging archery season, which runs from September 5 to October 18, offering more opportunities for hunters before the general rifle season begins.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Calling All Callers: Prairie County’s 27th Annual Coyote Calling Contest Returns to Terry, Montana
The Prairie County Sportsman Association is hosting its 27th Annual Coyote Calling Contest from December 4-6, 2026. The event offers cash prizes and emphasizes traditional hunting methods, prohibiting modern aids. Teams must register on the first day and adhere to specific rules. Side contests, meals, and door prizes enhance the experience.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
One of the Only Crafts Where Screwing Up Can Improve the Design
Creating antler and turquoise rings transforms mistakes into artistic features. Unlike traditional hobbies that discard errors, this craft embraces flaws by filling them with crushed stones, enhancing the piece's character. With a complete kit costing $104.78, beginners can turn their learning curve into unique designs in just a weekend.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
2026 Fall Mack Days – Week 5 Results
Week 5 of the 2026 Fall Mack Days event reported 13,535 lake trout entries, aiming to reduce non-native lake trout for native species support. The event runs until November 8, 2026, with numerous tagged fish prizes available. Top anglers include Terry Krogstad and Julie Perkins leading their respective categories. Safety reminders for anglers are included.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Region 4 commissioner proposes amendment to 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a virtual meeting tomorrow at 8 a.m., adding two items to discuss proposed amendments to the 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations. A special closed meeting will follow to address litigation strategy. Public comments on the amendments will be accepted until 4 p.m. today.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
The 36-Pound Chinook That Doesn’t Count as a Record
This fall, a notable 36-pound king salmon was caught at Fort Peck, surpassing Montana's previous record of 32.65 pounds. While snagging is legal here, a debate persists about whether snagged fish should count in records like those caught on tackle. Currently, 361,000 eggs have been collected towards a goal of 800,000.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.13.26
Cold weather kept boat anglers away from Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter this past weekend, yet trout fishing thrived along shorelines. With stable weather expected, walleye fishing should improve at Canyon Ferry. Additionally, kokanee snagging is yielding larger fish at Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir, continuing through October 31st.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cowboy Butter Venison Backstrap With Garlic Herb Heat
This Cowboy Butter recipe elevates venison backstrap with a flavorful blend of garlic, herbs, and spice. Melt butter, then mix in garlic, oregano, parsley, and seasonings. Grill the seasoned backstrap, brush with warm Cowboy Butter, and let rest before serving. Prep and cook in a total of 25 minutes for four servings.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
One State Discovered a Unicorn That Montana Likely Won’t Find
In July, Michigan's Department of Natural Resources requested public gray fox sightings to map the species better. A 2019 photo of a unique melanistic gray fox near Hastings created buzz online, raising questions about its rarity. In contrast, Montana lacks a gray fox account, focusing instead on red fox observations.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone River Fishing Report by Yellowstone Angler 10.12.26 (Carter’s: 1,830 CFS)
Autumn in Yellowstone brings changing conditions for fishing, with active trout and spawning whitefish. Bright days favor hopper-dropper and nymphing, while incoming rain and snow should enhance baetis activity and streamer fishing. The week features notable catches, signaling it’s peak streamer season. Book a trip with Montana Angler for optimal fishing.
Oct 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
High Over the Hi-Line: A Century-Old Dam Gets Its Close-Up From Above
Drone pilot Colynn captured impressive footage of the St. Mary Diversion Dam’s rehabilitation, highlighting a $70 million modernization project that enhances the structure's integrity and includes fish passage for bull trout. His aerial views showcase the extensive work required, earning accolades from the project team and viewers alike.
Oct 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Everything Was Legal, Hunter Still Passed on Two Speedgoats
PJ DelHomme bought two speedgoat tags, hauled a rifle and optics worth more than his truck down to southwestern Montana […]
Oct 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Montana Archery Bull for the Books
Congratulations, Wilson Pike! Hunt Montana shared Pike’s Montana archery bull with a rack you could pitch a tent under. Wholly […]
Oct 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Rock Creek Fishing Report 10.11.26
Rock Creek's flow is 250 cfs at 46°F, with clear conditions and light snow. Trout are inactive, requiring anglers to fish deep in pools using small, weighted flies. Key strategies include nymphing slowly and targeting sheltered areas. Expect a quiet day focused on precision rather than volume, with clear water necessitating fine tippet.
Oct 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Woman injured in moose encounter near McAllister
MCALLISTER – A woman was injured by a moose earlier this month on private land near McAllister. On Oct. 3, […]
Oct 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Partial closure at Makoshika State Park for noxious weed spraying next week
Makoshika State Park in Miles City will partially close from the switchbacks and above from October 13-16 for noxious weed spraying, pending weather conditions. The visitor center will remain open, and the Lower Group Use Shelter and trails below the switchbacks will still be accessible during this period.
Oct 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Muley vs. Elk
The post highlights the amusing nature of certain animals that seem unable to learn from their experiences. It conveys a lighthearted tone with a cheerful "Happy Sunday!" message and includes a link to a YouTube short for more visual content related to the theme.
Oct 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Boulder River in October: Crystal-Clear Water, Nowhere to Hide
The Boulder River is currently low and clear, making trout wary of anglers. Casting requires precision, focusing on deep holes and slow runs, as there's no room for mistakes. Despite challenging conditions, it's brown trout season, with strong fish migrating from Yellowstone, offering anglers a chance for success if approached carefully.
Oct 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
MT Outdoor Podcast Goes Inside Region 2: More Elk—and Access You Might Be Missing
In this episode of the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale and FWP Region 2 Access Manager Trenton Heisel discuss elk hunting in central-western Montana. They cover hunting strategies, bear encounters, and access tools, emphasizing the importance of planning and resources like the Montana Hunt Planner before heading into the field.
Oct 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Life of Faith, Family, and the Open Road: Charles “Chuck” Lanes)
Chuck Lanes, 81, passed away on October 5, 2026, due to a motorcycle accident. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and Navy veteran, Chuck left a legacy of faith and community service. He pastored for 38 years and was known for his love for classic cars and motorcycling. His memorial service is on October 16, 2026.