Summer conditions on the Missouri River feature high-water challenges and changing hatches. Fishing is tough, particularly from Toston to Canyon Ferry, where walleye can be found in slack waters. Meanwhile, from Holter to Great Falls, the PMD hatch is declining, with nymphing and specific dry flies being recommended.

Anglers are successfully catching kokanee in the Regulating Reservoir, especially during morning and evening hours. The preferred method involves trolling wedding rings with scented corn, using colors like chartreuse, pink, or orange. Fish are being found at depths ranging from 10 to 35 feet, with a speed of 1.0 to 1.2 mph recommended.

Fishing at Holter Lake remains steady despite quieter crowds. Walleye are prevalent, particularly in lower canyon areas, with effective techniques including slip bobbers and jigs near weed beds. Rainbow trout are being caught using kokanee tackle, and kokanee fishing is slowly improving as they may be moving to deeper waters.

Summer fishing on Hauser Lake offers diverse opportunities, including walleye, trout, and pike. Anglers can catch trout by trolling deeper areas near Spokane Bay, using crankbaits and cowbells. Walleye are best found near weed edges, while pike respond well to jigs. Patience and varying techniques are crucial for success.

Canyon Ferry is currently thriving for walleye and trout fishing, as of July 10, 2026, with the lake 89.4% full and inflows at 4,900 cfs. Anglers should target depths around 10-15 feet using various color patterns. Techniques include bottom bouncing, trolling, and casting near shorelines for successful catches.

Fishing conditions on the Upper Salmon River have improved, with anglers averaging 22 hours per fish caught. As of July 5, 2026, 103 hatchery adult Chinook salmon have been harvested, representing about 50% of the sport fishery harvest share. River conditions are favorable for the upcoming weekend, with clear visibility expected.

Two Montana fishing buddies made history on Salmon Lake when Todd Smitham landed a record largescale sucker, while pal Jonathan Miller already holds the longnose sucker record.

The lower Yellowstone River is thriving as the Shield’s River recedes. Although the salmonfly and goldenstone hatch is nearly over, a variety of bugs are abundant, including caddis and drakes. Anglers should match flies to the hatching insects, as fishing conditions are favorable before the weekend heatwave arrives.

Bobbi Egeland from Rhame, North Dakota, successfully caught a massive 31.5-inch fish at Fort Peck Reservoir, with her husband Craig as her reliable netman. Rather than weigh the catch, they prioritized the fish’s safety, creating a memorable “the one that didn’t get away” story. Congratulations to this dynamic duo!

Anglers are encouraged to abandon complex techniques for trout fishing during summer heat by embracing pocket water fishing, as suggested by Dave Hurteau. With heavy rains pushing trout into easily accessible areas, anglers can enjoy a straightforward approach using simple equipment and aggressive wading, making summer fishing both fun and rewarding.

The victim had been missing for decades.

A Montana hunter’s elk gets confiscated on opening day. Here’s what the wardens found — and what every elk hunter needs to know before heading out.

Lost a bull in your scope at the worst moment? Montana Wild’s latest tip fixes the most frustrating mistake hunters make in the field.

Take note!

Hoot-owl restrictions will begin on July 11 at 2 p.m. for certain Montana rivers, prohibiting fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight. These measures aim to protect fish during high temperatures and low water conditions. Anglers are encouraged to fish during cooler hours or explore other water bodies with better conditions.

The Flathead River is currently closed to all boating activities near Sportsman’s Bridge due to construction work. A no-go zone extends 20 feet upstream and 500 feet downstream. This restriction is in place until further notice from FWP. Public comments are accepted until July 24, 2026. Stay safe and find alternate launching spots.

Fishing conditions are optimal across the Missouri River chain, with successful multi-species catches noted at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs. Anglers are targeting walleye, rainbows, smallmouth bass, and northern pike using various techniques. Key areas include the river mouths and mid-reservoir spots, with effective bait options highlighted.

Montana’s inspectors at the Anaconda boat check station successfully prevented an invasive zebra mussel outbreak by stopping a contaminated wake boat from Minnesota. The boater was unaware of the mussels transported with their boat. All watercraft entering Montana must be inspected to protect against aquatic invasive species.

Two Montana fishing buddies made history on Salmon Lake when Todd Smitham landed a record largescale sucker, while pal Jonathan Miller already holds the longnose sucker record.

Crawfish Jalapeño Poppers redefine game-day appetizers with jalapeños stuffed with a spicy mix of cream cheese, crawfish, and Monterey Jack, all wrapped in bacon and grilled. Served with a homemade buttermilk-green onion dip, these delicious bites combine flavors from Montana and the bayou, sure to impress any crowd.

The lower Yellowstone River is thriving as the Shield’s River recedes. Although the salmonfly and goldenstone hatch is nearly over, a variety of bugs are abundant, including caddis and drakes. Anglers should match flies to the hatching insects, as fishing conditions are favorable before the weekend heatwave arrives.

This content highlights a quick and easy recipe for Air Fryer Venison Steak Bites, transforming venison into a juicy, high-protein dish. With a prep and cook time of just 20 minutes, the seasoned bites achieve a crispy exterior without the hassle of traditional cooking methods. Ideal for weeknight meals.

Lost a bull in your scope at the worst moment? Montana Wild’s latest tip fixes the most frustrating mistake hunters make in the field.

Bobbi Egeland from Rhame, North Dakota, successfully caught a massive 31.5-inch fish at Fort Peck Reservoir, with her husband Craig as her reliable netman. Rather than weigh the catch, they prioritized the fish’s safety, creating a memorable “the one that didn’t get away” story. Congratulations to this dynamic duo!

If you are a grizzly bear looking for a stress-free life, your geopolitical geographic choices matter a whole lot more […]

Anglers are encouraged to abandon complex techniques for trout fishing during summer heat by embracing pocket water fishing, as suggested by Dave Hurteau. With heavy rains pushing trout into easily accessible areas, anglers can enjoy a straightforward approach using simple equipment and aggressive wading, making summer fishing both fun and rewarding.

We all know pike and muskies are tanks. With their sharp teeth and aggressive attitudes, they seem virtually indestructible. But […]

Montana Angler in Bozeman advises anglers on fishing smaller waters while complying with stream access laws. To maximize success in late June and July, use simple flashy attractor dry flies. As streams become low and clear in August, a stealthy approach will be necessary to avoid spooking fish. Happy fishing!

Montana’s bison conflict isn’t simple. Here’s what hunters and wildlife watchers need to know about Yellowstone migration, brucellosis, and public lands in 2025.

A local business owner, Kris Vogele, faces significant losses after vandals destroyed 13 portable toilets using fireworks, incurring over $13,000 in damages. This vandalism threatens community support initiatives he provides. Tracking the offenders is difficult due to the locations and lack of surveillance, leaving Vogele to handle the financial burden alone.

The Flathead River is currently closed to all boating activities near Sportsman’s Bridge due to construction work. A no-go zone extends 20 feet upstream and 500 feet downstream. This restriction is in place until further notice from FWP. Public comments are accepted until July 24, 2026. Stay safe and find alternate launching spots.

In July, the Bighorn River offers excellent fishing conditions with water levels at 1,490 CFS. To maximize success, fish early mornings, during the PMD hatch from 10 AM to noon, and in the evening. Use proper gear and techniques, targeting fish in cooler, shaded areas during the hot midday heat.

In Texas Hill Country, Gracie, an 11-foot giraffe, made headlines after escaping for two weeks from Cedar Hollow Ranch. Her adventure involved dodging a $5,000 bounty and spurred internet memes. Meanwhile, Montana witnessed other exotic animals, including an elephant, zebras, and emus, causing chaos, highlighting the prevalence of exotic pets in rural America.

Take note!

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Livestock Loss Board, an attached agency of the Montana Department of Livestock, is awarding $58,429 in […]

On Monday, July 6th, rescue teams successfully executed a daring hoist operation in Glacier National Park to save two stranded […]

On July 3, 2026, angler Bill Dreikosen caught a remarkable fish weighing approximately 2 pounds at an undisclosed lake in Montana. The secrecy surrounding the location enhances the story’s allure. As an advocate for privacy, Bill embodies the spirit of fishing, where the thrill of the chase is often more valuable than the catch itself.

Angler Stacey Darrah achieved a personal best while fishing, reeling in a massive brown trout. Her husband, Jeff, celebrated the moment by sharing her excitement on social media. After a quick photo, they ensured the fish was safely released back into the water, swimming away unharmed.