Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
NW Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 21, 2026): Cold Snap Builds Safe Ice, Bigger Lakes Finally Open
Last week’s extreme cold and heavy snow dramatically thickened ice across NW Montana, opening up access to some larger lakes. With a warmer, wetter 7-day forecast (highs in the low 40s, lows near 30, possible rain), conditions could change fast—plan carefully and stay current on ice safety.
Feb 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana LMU 680 Closing to Female Mountain Lion Hunting After Sunset (Feb. 23, 2026) — What to Know
By order of the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission, LMU 680 will close to all hunting of female mountain lions one-half hour after sunset on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. Get the effective time/date, what’s changing, and where to check official quota status on Montana FWP.
Feb 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don’t Feed Wildlife: A “Calm” Elk Can Bite in Seconds When Hand-Fed
A calm-looking elk can still react fast—especially around food. In a clip shared as a reminder, a child’s fingers were nibbled while hand-feeding. Here’s why hand-feeding wildlife is risky and the simplest rule to avoid preventable injuries.
Feb 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Late-Winter Fly Fishing Report & Forecast 2026: Stable Flows, Clear Water, Active Trout on the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone & Missouri
Montana’s late-winter fly fishing has been unusually steady in 2026, with mild temperatures keeping conditions stable. Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters reports solid clarity, consistent flows, and trout feeding more predictably than typical for this time of year—especially on subsurface presentations.
Feb 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Life-Saving Skills You Can Learn: Downrigger Dale Interviews Instructor Racheal Vargas
On the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale talks with instructor Racheal Vargas (Montana K9 Safety and Montana Health & Safety Training) about practical, life-saving skills you can learn through training for individuals and groups—including preparation to help friends, family, and even pets in emergencies.
Feb 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Venison Sausage Stuffed Pancakes (Easy Breakfast Recipe from Kokanee Quinn)
These venison breakfast sausage stuffed pancakes—credited to Jenn Homa and shared by Kokanee Quinn—deliver a sweet-and-salty, handheld breakfast that’s perfect for cold mornings, early alarms, and everything from rut-chasing to couch lounging.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Drought Tightens After Dry February Start—Golden Triangle Slips Toward Extreme Drought
A mostly dry start to February is tightening drought conditions across Montana. Meteorologist Ryan Dennis says the usual winter “recharge” has been stingy this year, and the Golden Triangle is currently the hardest-hit area, with conditions slipping into extreme drought territory.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Expands Hunter Education: FWP Adds 7 Regional Technicians as Youth Participation Declines
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is expanding hunter education support by hiring seven regional education technicians, even as youth participation faces headwinds from overscheduled kids, two-income parents, and volunteer instructors. The technicians will help backstop the required firearm safety program for anyone born after Jan. 1, 1985.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s Biting
From Chancy’s Fish Camp in Evergreen, MT: ice conditions are a mixed bag across NW Montana—some lakes still have decent ice, others are getting questionable, and a few are leaning into “boat season” vibes. Here’s what to watch for (including pressure ridges) and what anglers are targeting: perch, salmon through the ice, plus trolling for lake trout and rainbow trout.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Closes Female Mountain Lion Harvest in LMU 320 & LMU 121 After Sunset Feb. 21, 2026 (Quota Update)
Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission announces female mountain lion harvest closes in LMU 320 and LMU 121 one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, as part of the state’s quota system to support healthy lion populations and sustainable hunting opportunity.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Parts Capped Over Again, But Ice Still Thin & Unpredictable (Lakeridge Update)
Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop reports parts of Fort Peck Lake have capped over again, but conditions remain thin, snow-covered, and unpredictable. Snow can hide cracks and slush, and new capped ice may meet older unstable ice—use extra caution, even in bays that have stayed frozen.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to Fish
After last night’s refreeze, Fort Peck Lake’s main lake has capped over again—but Fort Peck Marina says it’s “ABSOLUTELY not” safe to fish. Read the latest observations and safety guidance before you head out.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
How to Catch Jumbo Yellow Perch: Bigger Lures, Seasonal Patterns, and a Simple Perch Recipe
Yellow perch may not fight like bass, but they’re outstanding table fare—and you can stack the odds for bigger “jumbos” by thinking bigger than the usual live bait and tiny jigs. Here’s why bass-style lures work, what to throw in spring, early summer, and fall, plus a simple perch recipe to try.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding Areas
With questions swirling from anglers, Don Wilkins went out to verify current ice conditions near the Fort Peck Dam. He checked the main channel and surrounding areas firsthand to give a clearer picture of what’s out there right now.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Mountain Lion Backstrap Pizza on the Grill: Wild Game Recipe to Mark the Feb. 28 Season Close
A grill-fired wild game pizza featuring mountain lion backstrap—originally shared on montana-wild.com by Travis Boughton and reposted as a nod to the Feb. 28 close of the 2025 season.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 19, 2026): Significant Open Water, Shorelines Opening Up, Real Feel -16°
Not much has changed in the ice’s favor at Fort Peck Lake this week. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports significant open water with pockets throughout remaining ice, with shelf ice and shorelines continuing to open up. Snow has started and the “real feel” temperature is -16°. Safety first on the ice.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Upper Salmon River Steelhead Report (Feb. 11–15, 2026): Mild Winter, Stable Flows, and Fish Pushing Farther Upstream
A mild winter kept the Upper Salmon River more open than usual in mid-February, with warmer water, a shorter ice jam, and stable flows. Monitoring from Feb. 11–15, 2026 also showed steelhead moving farther upstream than typical, with strong angler effort and good catch rates across most monitored areas.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana FWP Reminder: These Hunting and Trapping Seasons Continue After the Feb. 28 License Deadline
Most Montana licenses wrap up Feb. 28, but a few seasons keep going. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks says mountain lion and wolf hunting continue past the license-year close, and some trapping seasons do too. If you use E-Tags, note they’ll go inactive in the app after Feb. 28—FWP recommends picking up an offline license at a regional office. Season dates: fwp.mt.gov/hunt. Licensing hotline: 406-444-2950.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Smith River Permit Lottery Results Are In: How to Check MyFWP, Super Permit Deadline (March 15) + Launch Rules
Montana FWP has posted Smith River permit drawing results in MyFWP, and successful applicants will also receive their permit by email. Didn’t draw? Super Permit chances are on sale through March 15 ($5 each), and remaining/cancelled launch dates can be requested by phone starting Monday, March 2. Here’s what to know about updated river rules, registration, and launching.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana FWP 2026–2027 Conservation & Recreation Permit Season: Expiration Date, Renewal Timeline, and New License Ambassador Program
The current conservation and recreation permit season ends Feb. 28, 2026, and permits must be renewed for the new season beginning March 1, 2026. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is also launching a License Ambassador program for external sales, with a hotline for help during normal business hours. Here’s what to know, how to apply, and who to contact for assistance.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament Update
Macman’s latest Flathead-area fishing report: Browns Lake is around 10 inches of ice and Upper Thompson about 6, but no ice is truly safe. Lake Mary Ronan and Flathead River sloughs are in good shape, colder temps should help, and McGregor Lake hosts a combo ice/open-water tournament next weekend. For open water, Yellow Bay has been productive past 200 feet—avoid Rocky Point due to gill netting.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Hunter Ed Registration Is Opening Now: Grab a Spring Seat Before the Summer Rush
More than 15 hunter and bowhunter education courses across north-central Montana are open or about to open for registration. Spring is the easiest time to secure a spot, with both classroom and online options available. Don’t wait until late summer or fall, when seats get competitive and classes fill up fast.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open Water
Strong 20–30 mph winds are rapidly changing conditions on Fort Peck. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports remaining ice sheets have broken up, leaving a mix of wide-open water and unstable, fragmented ice—use extreme caution and avoid questionable surfaces.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Lake Ice Rescue: Search & Rescue, Airboat Crew, and Locals Bring Stranded People Safely Back to Shore
Valley County Search and Rescue responded around 4:00 p.m. after several people became stranded on Fort Peck Lake. An airboat team launched while others staged on land, and local good Samaritans used side-by-sides to help get everyone off drifting ice and back to shore safely. A timely reminder that late-winter ice can change fast.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Wolf Harvest Update (Feb. 17, 2026): 229 Wolves Taken Toward 452-Quota; WMU 313 Closed
FWP reports 229 wolves harvested statewide toward a 452-wolf quota (excluding WMUs 313 and 316). Region 1 leads with 96, followed by Region 2 (73) and Region 3 (49). Region 3 remains open (49 of 60), WMU 316 is open (1 of 3), and WMU 313 has closed after reaching its 3-wolf limit. The general season and trapping run through March 15.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Boat Inspection Stations Reopen March 7: Key Watercraft Inspection Dates, Locations, and AIS Reports
Montana watercraft inspection stations reopen March 7 in Dillon, Ravalli, and Anaconda as Fish, Wildlife & Parks highlights another year of keeping invasive mussels out of state waters. New AIS reports underscore strong prevention statewide—and a growing risk from boats returning from out-of-state waters.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri River Fishing Forecast (February 2026): Midges, 36°F Water Temps, and Winter Streamer/Trout Spey Opportunities in Craig, MT
February on Montana’s Missouri River is quiet, cold, and—when weather cooperates—surprisingly productive. With snowpack running roughly 80–90% of average, steady flows, and that key 36°F water-temp line dictating fish behavior, expect midges, deep-bucket nymphing, a sneaky-good winter streamer bite, and Trout Spey anglers swinging heavier tips through prime holding water. Here’s the latest Craig, MT update from Headhunters Fly Shop, plus what to watch as we inch toward spring and the 2026 guide season.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
He Tagged a 170-Inch Alabama Whitetail Legally—Then the Internet Sparked Poaching Rumors and Calls to Game Wardens
DC Tabscott’s 170-inch-plus Alabama buck went viral fast—and so did the accusations. After he posted the deer online, strangers claimed poaching and trespassing, tracked down landowners, and even contacted game wardens. His story is a blunt reminder: hunt legally, get permission in writing, and document everything—because the real chaos can start after you hit “post.”
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice Access
Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop shared an update (Feb. 17, ~6:30 p.m.) warning that the ice “did not make it” and the lake is blown open with no safe access. More updates are expected after the storm passes.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Deadly Fish Camp Argument in Tuluksak: Alaska Troopers Arrest Man on Second-Degree Murder Charge
Alaska State Troopers say 54-year-old Nelson Hawk was found dead near Tuluksak with a gunshot wound after an alleged argument at a local fish camp. A 42-year-old Tuluksak man has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder, plus assault and evidence tampering.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Tiber Marina Upgrades: Public Meeting Feb. 24, 2026 in Chester (Plus Online Option & Comment Deadline)
The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking public feedback on proposed improvements to Tiber Marina at Tiber Reservoir, including expanded campsites and parking, an improved boat ramp, and a new concessionaire building. Attend the Feb. 24, 2026 meeting in Chester, join via Microsoft Teams, or submit comments by March 10, 2026.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fox Haas Dies at 95: Legendary Turkey Hunter, Mossy Oak Patriarch, and Mississippi Conservation Force
Fox Haas, the celebrated turkey hunter and conservation advocate, has died at 95. From a 75-season run (with only two missed years during tuberculosis) to helping spur Mississippi turkey reintroductions and inspiring Mossy Oak’s roots, Haas leaves a legacy that shaped spring woods for generations.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ice Fishing Safety Alert: Carbon Monoxide in Shelters Can Turn Deadly—How to Stay Safe with Heaters
A heater inside an ice fishing tent can create a lethal carbon monoxide buildup—an invisible, odorless danger. Learn the key steps to reduce risk: ventilation, cracked windows, open vents, and a battery-powered CO detector every trip.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley Reservoir
Montana FWP’s latest Helena-area reservoir update: ice is extremely variable, with open water in spots. Here’s where anglers are finding rainbows, walleye, perch, kokanee, and burbot—plus what’s being used and where conditions are unsafe.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Are Elk Dangerous? What to Know About Aggressive Behavior During the Rut and Calving Season
Elk usually want to avoid people—but they can become dangerous fast during the fall rut or spring calving season. Learn the warning signs (pinned ears, lowered head, charging posture) and what to do if an elk starts closing the distance.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still Lingers
Anglers report Canyon Ferry is in transition: part ice, part open water, and heavily wind-dependent. Reports say it’s open from the dam to roughly Confederate Gulch, with much of the north end showing open water—but a lingering ice sheet past the Silos boat launch may be hard to spot from a distance. Use caution before launching or stepping out.
Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
February Fishing Report: Missouri River Strategies
The Missouri River fishing is improving despite some wind, with nymphing and midges being effective. Focus on subsurface techniques and smaller streamers for success during winter outings.
Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under Ice
The video showcases a large largemouth bass beneath ice, demonstrating that these fish remain active in winter. Ice fishing persists as a popular winter activity, targeting various species, including bass.
Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Walleye Unlimited Bingo Night: Win Cash and Prizes
Walleye Unlimited Bingo Night returns on February 26, 2026, at The Office Bar in Livingston, featuring a $1,000 final round and supporting local causes. Join for fun and prizes!
Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Winter Fishing Challenges on the Jefferson River in Montana
Winter fishing on the Jefferson River is challenging due to low trout densities. Patience with nymphing is necessary, but better fishing opportunities usually arise in early spring.
Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why Field Dressing Requires Full Focus
Hunting accidents happen. A twisted ankle in rough country. A close call with a falling branch. Even the occasional misplaced […]
Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Southwest Montana Fishing Report 2.13.26
This 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.
Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26
The 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.
Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
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.
Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Tuck Away: Unusual Marine Harvesting Incident
A 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.
Feb 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Elk captured on the Crow Reservation test negative for brucellosis
Montana 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.
Feb 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: Cheesy Elk Skillet Lasagna
Kokanee 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.
Feb 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Flathead Lake Dam Decisions: How Ripple Effects Travel Downriver to Portland
By popular demand, we’re running last week’s in-depth podcast episode for a second week. Guest Brian Lipscomb explains how what happens at Flathead Lake—especially at the dam—can ripple through the Flathead River system and influence ecosystems, communities, recreation, and agriculture far beyond the lakeshore.
Feb 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Understanding Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Through History
Montana'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.
Feb 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Dramatic Dating Ritual of Bald Eagles
Bald 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.