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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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 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 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26
Despite 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.
Feb 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Current Fishing Conditions on the Lower Clark Fork River 2.10.26
The 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.
Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the Ice
What started as just another drop through the ice quickly turned into something much bigger for angler Don Wilkins. Almost […]
Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Kootenai River Fishing Conditions: February Update
The 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.
Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Tongue River Marina Ice Update 2.10.26
Ice 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.
Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Dillon, MT Beaverhead River Fishing Report 2.9.26
Recent 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.
Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MT
First 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.
Feb 10, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
2026 Fort Peck Fishing Outlook Based on Water Levels
Fort Peck Reservoir is shaping up to be a steady, predictable fishing year in 2026. Water levels are expected to […]
Feb 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow
The 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.
Feb 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
February 2026 Fishing Report: Glacier National Park & Flathead Valley
February 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.
Feb 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26
Anglers 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.
Feb 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck, MT Duck Creek Ice Update 2.6.26
Lakeride 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.
Feb 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26
Ice 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.
Feb 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck’s Duck Creek Ice Report 2.5.26
Lakeridge 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.
Feb 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Livingtson, MT Yellowstone River Fishing Report 2.5.26
Winter 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.
Feb 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Allure of Brown Trout Fishing in Montana
Brown trout are the fish equivalent of that quiet guy in the corner who turns out to be way tougher—and […]
Feb 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Best Flies for Missouri River Winter Fishing
According to a report by The River’s Edge on February 2nd, Holter is cruising at 3560 CFS, and honestly, the […]
Feb 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Clark Canyon Reservoir Ice Report 2.3.26
At Clark Canyon Reservoir, reports from anglers in ice fishing groups are stating that ice conditions are beginning to change. […]
Feb 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Visit Gates of the Mountains: Open Water Fishing
The Gates of the Mountains opens today at 7:30 a.m. for fishing, but visitors must bring exact change due to seasonal closures of facilities. Weather-related updates will be provided.
Feb 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catch Big Fish and Win Prizes at Georgetown Lake
If you’ve ever looked at a fish and thought, “Yeah… that one deserves some recognition,” The Lakehouse at Georgetown Lake […]
Feb 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn River, MT Fishing Report for 2.1.26
Winter fishing on the Bighorn River is effective with trout lying deep. Key tactics include deep nymphing and slow streamers, focusing on stealth and depth due to cold conditions. Rainbows and browns are selective.
Feb 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fish Hog vs Groundhog: Winter Predictions
Garrett Ostler's entertaining video features a trout, dubbed a “fish hog,” predicting six more weeks of winter, offering anglers a lighthearted perspective on the season's chilly performance.
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Marina Fishing Highlights with Kyle Mcgaugh
Kyle McGaugh and his crew had a successful fishing trip despite deteriorating ice conditions. They caught nice fish and emphasized the importance of safety and monitoring changing weather conditions.
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.2.26
Anglers are reminded that ice conditions can be extremely variable. Ice thickness can range from thick enough to support a […]
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cheyenne’s Fishing Success at Montana’s Georgetown Lake
Cheyenne Chase caught a remarkable 3.83 lb fish at Georgetown Lake, showcasing the joy of fishing for kids. It highlights confidence, memorable experiences, and the rewards of patience.
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ice Safety Alert: Man Falls Through Ice at Tiber Reservoir
A man fell through ice at Tiber's west end, but survived due to a flotation suit and ice picks. Unpredictable ice conditions remind outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution and prepare adequately.
Feb 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Current Ice Report at Duck Creek, Fort Peck 2.1.26
Duck Creek at Fort Peck’s ice is running around 6 inches, and the ice is really smooth, according to Eddie […]
Feb 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
An Icy Side-by-Side Fort Peck Adventure
Don Wilkins filmed a side-by-side ride on Montana's Fort Peck Reservoir, showcasing rough, unpredictable ice conditions. He emphasizes the importance of safety while enjoying the adventurous experience.
Feb 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Targeted Montana Ice Fishing: All About Burbot
Burbot, known as the poor man's lobster, thrive in Montana's cold waters, offering unique winter fishing experiences. Their populations are stable, and they are resilient, delicious, and often misunderstood.
Jan 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck MT Fishing Report 1.30.26
Ice conditions in the McGuire area were 14”, with good walleye and pike fishing. Rock Creek's ice is 9-10”, and northern fishing has been excellent using 4-6” suckers and shiner minnows.
Jan 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
Best Gear and Technique for Walleye Ice Fishing Success
Using horizontal baits like the Jigging Rap enhances ice fishing effectiveness by covering more water. Tony Roach recommends fast, aggressive jigging followed by subtle motions to entice walleye bites.
Jan 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
MT’s Lake Sutherlin & Newlan Reservoir Ice Reports 1.29.26
Ice conditions at Lake Sutherlin and Newlan Reservoir remain good with 10 to 12 inches of ice, ensuring safe fishing. Stay cautious and enjoy the day on the ice!
Jan 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
Current Conditions for Kootenai River Fishing 1.28.26
Winter conditions on the Kootenai River are optimal for fishing, with steady low flows and clear waters. Nymphing is the most effective technique, focusing on deep, slow-moving areas for trout.
Jan 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
Tips and Hilarious Highlights from a First-Time MT Ice Angler
The video captures the essence of ice fishing in Montana, highlighting camaraderie, challenges, and practical tips for catching burbot, emphasizing the joy found in shared winter adventures.
Jan 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Flathead Valley MT Ice and Fishing Report 1.27.26
Chancy and Dave's Fish Camp reports that ice fishing is underway across Flathead Valley lakes. Ice thickness varies, with good catches of perch and salmon noted, while caution is advised.
Jan 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Walleye Limits: Minnesota’s Fishing Dilemma..Is MT Next?
Minnesota may reduce its daily walleye limit from six to four due to environmental pressures and advanced fishing technology, prompting questions about similar actions in Montana's fisheries.