Apr 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

Windy Weather Slows Fort Peck Walleye Spawn Collection: April 17 Update

The annual walleye spawn collection at Fort Peck has yielded 18.6 million eggs despite recent high winds. Crews anticipate increased activity as warmer temperatures encourage female walleye to spawn.

Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Mystery Fish Kill: Black Crappie Die-Off Reported at Nelson Reservoir

Montana FWP is investigating a black crappie fish kill at Nelson Reservoir, prompted by reports of dead fish. Biologists are analyzing samples to determine the cause, with no current consumption advisories.

Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

NOTICE OF SPRING BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMU 700 WITH HOUNDS

Montana's Black Bear Management Unit 700 will prohibit black bear hunting with hounds after sunset on April 19, 2026, reopening for hound training on April 20, 2026.

Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Dust Off the Engine: Lake Elmo’s Giving You a Free Pass (Sort Of)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks allows gas motors at Lake Elmo on May 9 and 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., for boat inspections and safety checks before the fishing season.

Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Unlocking Your Trapping License in Montana: What You Need to Know

Montana trapping licenses open April 15. Hunters must obtain a separate license, take a trapper education course, or show previous experience. Nonresidents need a notarized affidavit for reciprocity.

Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP Draw Results: Check Your Deer and Elk Permits

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released the results for deer, elk, and nonresident combination licenses. Hunters can check results online or by phone, with upcoming application deadlines approaching.

Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Walleye Spawn: What to Expect in 2026

The 2026 walleye season at Fort Peck has begun amidst unpredictable weather. Biologists report rising water temperatures, capturing primarily male walleye, with hopes for a productive spawn in warmer days ahead.

Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana

Free Fishing Day for Kids at Ninepipes Reservoir

Catch the fun at the Ninepipes Kid’s Fishing Day on May 2nd! Free for K-12 students in Charlo, MT. No license or registration required.

Apr 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Ultimate Guide to Fishing at Holter, Canyon Ferry, and Hauser

Local fishing spots are thriving, with excellent catches of rainbow trout at Holter and walleye at Lake Helena and Canyon Ferry. Diverse bait options are leading to successful outings for anglers.

Apr 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Clark Fork River: Access During Bridge Repairs

Starting April 15, the Clark Fork river area near Triple Bridges will close for bridge replacement, affecting access but allowing river floating. Closures persist until Fall 2027 due to construction.

Apr 9, 2026 · Angela Montana

Peace Out, Pesky Stickers: Montana’s Boating Bureaucracy Just Walked the Plank

Montana has eliminated the requirement for colorful boat validation stickers, streamlining vessel registration to a one-time licensing process, allowing owners more leisure time on the water without bureaucratic hassles.

Apr 9, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Biologists observe leks to estimate bird populations

Mountain grouse males, such as the dusky grouse, ruffed grouse and spruce grouse, perform their breeding displays in forested areas, usually on their own or in small groups, and aren’t really “leks” per se.

Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana

Translocated female grizzly emerges from den with two cubs

A female grizzly bear, released in Wyoming, emerged with two cubs, demonstrating successful genetic exchange between ecosystems. This effort marks a significant milestone in grizzly bear management and conservation.

Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Feathered Midwives of Fort Peck: Montana’s Wildest Spring Tradition

Montana's walleye spawning process relies on human intervention due to fluctuating water levels, involving the use of barges and turkey feathers to ensure the survival of millions of eggs.

Apr 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Surplus nonresident spring hound licenses available

Hunters can purchase leftover nonresident hound licenses starting April 8 at 5 a.m. Limited availability; first-come, first-served online or at FWP offices.

Apr 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 4.6.26

Rainbow fishing is thriving at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs, with successful methods including various flies, jigs, and worms. Anglers are also catching occasional walleye.

Apr 4, 2026 · Miguel Lee

Montana Fishing Reports April 4th Missed it, listen here

April 4th, the ice is pretty much gone and the rivers and lakes are opening up. So if you Missed […]

Apr 4, 2026 · Miguel Lee

Montana Outdoor Radio Show – April 4th Recap

If you missed it, you can catch the full episode now for statewide fishing updates, spring conditions, and all the […]

Apr 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission Announces Closure of Otter Trapping in Region 1

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission has closed otter trapping in Region 1 due to approaching harvest quotas, effective April 4, ensuring species sustainability.

Mar 31, 2026 · Angela Montana

Game wardens seek information on mule deer fawn killed in Roundup

Gemini said Montana FWP seeks information regarding a mule deer fawn illegally killed by a blow dart in Roundup. Similar incidents involving ducks occurred in Billings. Report tips to tipmont.mt.gov for rewards.

Mar 31, 2026 · Angela Montana

Game wardens seek information on blow-darted ducks in Billings

BILLINGS – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are seeking the public’s help in gathering information on a series of potentially related instances of ducks shot […]

Mar 30, 2026 · Angela Montana

Join the Public Meeting on Missouri River Bridge Closure in Craig

Lewis and Clark County warns of an upcoming closure of the Missouri River Bridge on April 8, 2026. A public meeting will discuss details and updates on local projects.

Mar 29, 2026 · Angela Montana

Region 3 Otter Trapping Closure

If you’ve been keeping a close eye on the riverbanks in Southwest Montana, it’s time to shift gears. By order […]

Mar 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Shoreline Restoration Underway at Cooney State Park This Spring

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is initiating a stabilization project at Cooney Reservoir to address erosion caused by 2022 flooding, leading to temporary closures from April 6 to May 13.

Mar 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Join the Grizzly Bear Meeting in Big Timber

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting a meeting in Big Timber on April 7 to discuss the recent increase in grizzly bear sightings and provide safety tips for residents.

Mar 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Antler Hunger Games: How to Score Your Spot at Blackfoot-Clearwater This Spring

If your idea of a perfect spring morning involves trekking through the brush in search of antlers, this is for […]

Mar 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Opportunity for Anglers: Shape Montana’s Fishery Future

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks seeks a "Licensed Angler" for its Citizen Review Panel to assist in restoring wild fish habitats. Meetings happen in June and December, with applications encouraged.

Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Goldfish, Pike, and the “Wrong” Kind of Romance: Montana’s 2026 Underwater Eviction Notice

If you thought your dating life was complicated, try being a Westslope Cutthroat Trout in the Big Hole Drainage. Between […]

Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana’s Wolf Season: That’s a Wrap for 2025-2026

The Montana wolf season ended on March 15, with 243 wolves harvested out of a quota of 452. Region 1 led with 98 harvests, while Regions 6 and 7 reported none. Future seasons are scheduled, but dates may change due to federal court orders. Data serves vital conservation purposes. Stay informed for updates.

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Great Madison Range Meet-Up: Giving Bighorn Sheep a Lift

In the world of Montana real estate, the Madison Range has a bit of a “middle child” problem. To the […]

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Deer & Elk Permit Application Deadline, April 1

If deer or elk hunting is on your Montana to-do list this year, remember that the deadline to apply for […]

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Special Youth Turkey Hunt Opportunity in Flathead Valley, Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting a free youth turkey hunt on May 2-3, 2026, for ages 10-15, including safety training and mentorship. Applications are due soon.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Paddlefish Permit Deadline Approaches: Apply by April 1

Apply for paddlefish permits by April 1 to participate in the unique season. Applications are easy online or in-person at local FWP offices or authorized retailers. Don't miss out!

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Central Montana game wardens report an increase in illegally taken mountain lions

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wardens reported a rise in illegally harvested mountain lions in central Montana in 2025, including hunters who shot lions first and only purchased hunting licenses afterward.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Hunter Education Classes (2026): Spring & Summer Dates in Central and Eastern MT + How to Register

Ready to hunt in Montana? Montana FWP is listing in-person hunter education classes and online-student field days across central and eastern Montana this spring and summer. Seats can fill fast, and students must be registered before class begins—here’s how to sign up plus the full schedule of dates and towns.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP: LMU 422 Will Close to Male Mountain Lion Hunting After Sunset on March 12, 2026

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has ordered LMU 422 closed to all hunting of male mountain lions one-half hour after sunset on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Check the official quota status page for the latest details.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP Upper Missouri River Fisheries Meeting (March 16, Helena): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter Updates

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hosts its annual Upper Missouri River Reservoir Fisheries Management Plan update on March 16 at 6 p.m. in Helena. Hear population trends and management updates for Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter, and nearby Missouri River sections—and learn what keeps these popular fisheries producing year after year.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Free Bozeman Workshop Teaches Dog Owners How to Release a Pet From a Trap (March 26)

Montana K9 Safety is hosting a free trap release workshop for Bozeman-area dog owners on March 26. Expect hands-on demos with multiple trap types, a look at current trapping regulations, and simple tools that can help you safely free a dog if an accident happens on the trail.

Mar 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

New Automated Gate Added at Carter’s Bridge Fishing Access Site on the Yellowstone River: Hours & Rules

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks installed an automated gate at Carter’s Bridge Fishing Access Site near Livingston to curb overnight use, vandalism, and after-hours issues. Daytime access remains the same: open daily 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; overnight camping is prohibited.

Mar 5, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Crews Return to the Cabinet Mountains to Study Mountain Lions—Building on 25+ Years of Research

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists are back in the Cabinet Mountains near Libby, using hounds to locate mountain lions and collect biological samples. The work adds to more than 25 years of research, helping compare today’s lions with earlier data and informing population estimates, harvest tracking, and long-term management.

Mar 3, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP Is Hiring a Full-Time Outdoor Job Near Plentywood (Benefits Included, Apply by March 15)

Want a job that keeps you outside? Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hiring a full-time position based in the Plentywood area, with work ranging from state park and fishing access support to maintenance, signage, and hunting-season assistance. Full benefits included; applications due March 15 at 11:59 p.m.

Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP’s Spring Electrofishing on 7 Rivers: What Anglers Need to Know About Tagged Trout (and Rewards)

FWP crews are floating seven Montana rivers over the next several weeks for their annual electrofishing “science tour,” collecting trout data and continuing tagging efforts. If you catch a tagged trout on the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Ruby, or Madison, you can help the research—clip the tag, report it online, and you may even qualify for prizes or cash depending on the tag color.

Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Wolf Harvest Update: 241 Taken So Far (Out of 452) — Regional Breakdown, Open Units, and Season Dates

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reports 241 wolves harvested statewide so far this season out of a 452 quota (excluding WMUs 313 and 316). Here’s the regional breakdown, which units are open/closed, season dates, and why checking FWP’s live counter matters before you head out.

Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Blackfoot-Clearwater WMA Shed Hunting Opening Day 2026: May 15 Noon Access, Vehicle Entry Registration, and New Nonresident Rules

Headed to Montana’s Blackfoot-Clearwater WMA for opening day shed hunting? Here’s the May 15, 2026 noon access plan, how vehicle entry registration and lineup work, where walk/bike/horse users can enter, and what the new seven-day nonresident restriction and $50 WMA shed-hunting license mean.

Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Big Cat Closures: Region 6 Bobcat Season Ends Feb. 28; LMU 280 Male Mountain Lion Closes Feb. 27, 2026

Montana FWP reports two quota-driven big cat closures: bobcat hunting and trapping in Region 6 ends at midnight Saturday, Feb. 28, and LMU 280 closes to the hunting of male mountain lions one-half hour after sunset Friday, Feb. 27, 2026. Here’s what to know and where to check official quota updates before you head out.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana State Parks Reservations Now Open for Camping, Lodging & Tours (Plus Blackfoot Float-In Sites Start March 2)

Montana State Parks is now accepting reservations for camping, lodging, and tours. Most sites can be booked up to three months in advance (with a seven-night max per site). Blackfoot River Corridor float-in campsite reservations open March 2 by phone only, with required fire pans, food storage, and portable toilet systems for overnight floaters.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Elk Don’t Follow a Script—How FWP Uses GPS Tracklogs to Survey Smarter

Montana wildlife surveys have evolved from paper maps and pencils to handheld GPS units and digital mapping tools. As elk shift with mild winters and changing habitat, Montana FWP biologists use detailed tracklogs to verify coverage, avoid double-counting, and improve year-to-year consistency—leading to sharper data and smarter management decisions.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Shed Antler Hunting Rules for 2026: $50 Nonresident WMA License + 7-Day Waiting Period

Montana’s 2026 shed antler rule updates mainly affect nonresidents on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): a new $50 WMA shed hunting license and a seven-day wait before picking up sheds after WMAs open. Most WMAs open at 12 p.m. on May 15, but verify the specific area’s opening time.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Closes Male Mountain Lion Season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 After Sunset (Feb. 24, 2026)

Montana’s Fish & Wildlife Commission ordered the male mountain lion season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 to close one-half hour after sunset on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. Hunters should check current quota status before heading out.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens Up

Final winter fishing report for Helena-area reservoirs before updates resume in April. Ice is highly variable and can change fast, and Canyon Ferry’s south end is seeing expanding open water that’s undermining nearby ice—use extreme caution on any ice.