The Flathead Valley is in “big water” season, presenting challenges for larger rivers but opportunities in smaller streams with active salmonflies. Anglers should prioritize safety while fishing high flows.

Expert angler John Way emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of Montana’s Salmon Fly hatch to catch trout. His tactics recommend using smaller flies and fishing below the surface for better success.

Despite poor weekend weather keeping most anglers away, those who ventured out found success catching rainbows using various techniques at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs.

Montana anglers are reporting from every direction: certain waters are heating up, others are require more patience, and the smart […]

Don Wilkins reports that fluctuating water temperatures are prompting walleye and smallmouth bass to shift to shallower depths. Successful fishing techniques include jigs, plastics, and crankbaits. Salmon catches are promising.

Southwest Montana fishing conditions vary mid-May, with Hebgen and Quake Lakes offering good action. The Upper Madison faces cold weather impacts, while Yellowstone rivers see early hatches amidst certain closures.

The Bitterroot River’s conditions are challenging yet promising for anglers, offering good opportunities for both dry-fly and nymph fishing, especially in upper sections, amid fluctuating water clarity and summer hatches.

Spring has arrived at Fort Peck, highlighted by local legend Bill “The Salmon Slayer” Zarahdka catching a 15.7-pound Chinook salmon and a walleye simultaneously, showcasing his impressive fishing skills.

This week, focus on fishing side channels and soft edges due to high river conditions in Western Montana. Use heavy tackle and nymphs for best results. Fish during warmer hours for success.

Lure manufacturers create flashy designs to attract buyers, but many anglers find that black lures outperform them by providing high-contrast silhouettes visible to fish in various light conditions.

Montana FWP is seeking public input on the 2027–2028 fishing regulations, featuring 41 proposals. Anglers can participate by attending a meeting on May 13, joining online sessions on May 26, or submitting comments via email or mail before the May 31 deadline. Share your insights to influence fishing rules.

Tick season is peaking across Montana right now. Here’s what hunters, anglers, and hikers need to know to stay safe this May.

Co-defendant Simon Paul, Branson, and others, hunted and killed eagles on the Flathead Indian Reservation and elsewhere. In total, approximately 3,600 birds were killed, including eagles. They then illegally sold the eagles on the black market for significant sums of cash across the United States and elsewhere.

May fishing on the Mo favors afternoon outings with clear, low waters. Focus on dry flies for caddis hatches and use stealth, precision, and simple subsurface patterns for success.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is accepting applications for the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program until June 19, offering up to $1.8 million for projects enhancing local ecosystems.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is collaborating with Montana State University on trout research in the upper Jefferson River basin, revealing mixed trout population growth in recent sampling and offering rewards for reporting tagged fish.

Despite poor weekend weather keeping most anglers away, those who ventured out found success catching rainbows using various techniques at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs.

The BOW program hosts a beginner paddlefishing workshop in Miles City, focusing on snagging techniques over two days, covering biology, regulations, and hands-on practice for adults 18 and older.

Montana anglers are reporting from every direction: certain waters are heating up, others are require more patience, and the smart […]

The bite is on, the waters are moving, the question is where and on what, so if you missed last […]

This week’s Montana Outdoor Podcast features host Downrigger Dale interviewing Jason Eggebrecht and Tom Kobza about exciting new changes in the upcoming 39th Montana Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament.

Smoked Candied Salmon is the new favorite road trip snack, combining sweet, smoky, and salty flavors. This upscale Alaskan treat is easy to make and perfect for outdoor adventures.

Mosquitoes, often overlooked, are the deadliest animals on Earth, causing up to 1 million deaths annually due to disease, outpacing other predators, including sharks and bears, despite their small size.

This easy walleye chowder recipe features simple ingredients and quick preparation, resulting in a hearty meal perfect for enjoying your catch. It’s sure to be a family favorite.

The Milk River Project’s St. Mary Diversion Dam is transforming from a construction zone into a modern engineering marvel, enhancing water reliability, safety, and ecological upgrades for Bull Trout passage.

Fish culturist Ryan Lott and his hatchery crew have commenced the 2026 stocking season, distributing rainbow trout across Northeast Montana, including over 30,000 fingerlings via helicopter to various reservoirs.

Don Wilkins reports that fluctuating water temperatures are prompting walleye and smallmouth bass to shift to shallower depths. Successful fishing techniques include jigs, plastics, and crankbaits. Salmon catches are promising.

The Flathead Valley Bass League launched its season with a competitive event where Jack Carroll and Andrew Turner claimed first place. Russ Geldrich landed the Big Fish at 4.80 lbs.

Southwest Montana fishing conditions vary mid-May, with Hebgen and Quake Lakes offering good action. The Upper Madison faces cold weather impacts, while Yellowstone rivers see early hatches amidst certain closures.

High winds have displaced the courtesy dock across the boat ramp at Fourchette Bay, rendering it unusable. USACE crews are working to resolve the issue; alternative launch sites are recommended for boaters.

The National Weather Service has issued a blowing dust advisory and high wind warning for northeastern Montana, advising residents to avoid travel due to low visibility and dangerous conditions.

Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop is hosting Trace’s Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic on May 31st at 10 AM, offering young anglers a day of outdoor fun and adventure. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required.

In 2025, modifications were made to a fence blocking access to the West Boulder River after negotiations, allowing public access while controversies over landowner restrictions continue to rise in Montana.

Philip Pohle, a 32-year-old maintenance worker at Ohio’s Hocking Hills State Park, is being called a walking miracle after surviving […]

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks introduces new tagging options for paddlefish, requiring immediate validation upon harvest. Anglers must comply with specific reporting guidelines and can use e-tags or paper tags for their catch.

The Bitterroot River’s conditions are challenging yet promising for anglers, offering good opportunities for both dry-fly and nymph fishing, especially in upper sections, amid fluctuating water clarity and summer hatches.

We’ve all been there: you’re cruising down the highway, perhaps daydreaming about a weekend at the lake, when the universe […]

Montana FWP announced a restoration project to protect westslope cutthroat trout in the Little Belt Mountains, including installing a fish barrier on Harley Creek. A public meeting is scheduled for May 20.