Oct 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fleecer BMA Opens Doors One Final Time
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announces a final opportunity for hunters to sign up for Fleecer Cattle Co.'s Block Management Area (#143) this Friday, Oct. 23, from 12 to 2:30 p.m. Registration is required for access, as it's a Type-2 BMA. Check the FWP Block Management Guide for details.
Oct 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Roundup mule deer management hunt scheduled to begin late November
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will sell 50 archery licenses for a mule deer management hunt in Roundup starting November 4. The hunt addresses urban deer overpopulation, running from November 30 to February 15, 2027. Hunters need proper licenses and permission to hunt, with management measures in place to ensure public safety.
Oct 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: NOTICE OF BIGHORN SHEEP CLOSURE HD 500
Hunting District 500 will be closed to all Bighorn Sheep hunting starting at half an hour after sunset on Thursday, October 22, 2026, as per the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission's order. For more information, refer to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Are You or Do You Know a High Schooler Who Has Opinions About MT Rivers?
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking one high school student for a two-year position on the Future Fisheries Citizen Review Panel, which influences approximately $1 million annually for fish habitat restoration projects. The student would vote on funding proposals and attend two meetings each year. Applications are open until filled.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing closure on section of upper Big Hole River lifted
A fishing closure on the upper Big Hole River, from Saginaw Bridge to the North Fork confluence, has been lifted due to improved flows. The closure, which began on August 12 to address low water levels, follows the Big Hole River Drought Management Plan. Spawning-related closures still apply in other areas.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Water Turning Off at Brush Lake State Park, but the Camping Isn’t
Brush Lake State Park will discontinue potable water starting October 21, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Campers are advised to bring their own water, although dry camping will still be permitted. The park's gate will remain open for visitors throughout the season.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Fish and Wildlife Commission approves new fishing regulations during October meeting
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission approved new fishing regulations for 2027-2028, including updated limits and methods, and established a 99-year conservation easement on Hannah Ranch. They banned motorized watercraft on Mitchell Slough, reflecting public input and scientific assessment in the regulatory process. Additional topics like trout regulations and frog relocations were also addressed.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.19.26
As the boating season ends, fishing at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter Reservoirs is thriving. Walleye and rainbow trout are actively biting, with specific techniques yielding great results. The kokanee salmon snagging season continues through October, offering ample opportunities for anglers. Campgrounds are closed, and docks are removed for the year.
Oct 17, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Listen to Last Week’s Show – Montana Outdoor Radio Show – October 17th
Missed it, listen here to your favorite reports and content. From Flathead Lake to up the Bitterroot, entering the Helena […]
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF BIGHORN SHEEP CLOSURE IN HD 303
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission announces the closure of the specified hunting district to all Bighorn Sheep hunting. This prohibition will be in effect beginning one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, October 17, 2026, as outlined in the legal descriptions provided.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Reminder: New HD 101-50 bull elk permit area
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announces a new bull elk permit for HD 101-50 (North Tobacco) for the 2026-2027 season, allowing only permit holders to hunt antlered elk in that area. General license holders may hunt antlered elk elsewhere in HD 101, excluding North Tobacco. Regulations are available for review.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Hemorrhagic Disease Causing Deer and Antelope Deaths in South-Central Montana
FWP reports a rise in dead and dying deer and antelope, particularly near rivers, due to hemorrhagic diseases like EHD and BT. These diseases, not harmful to humans, typically decline with colder weather. Hunters are advised not to harvest sick animals. FWP is monitoring the situation and public reporting is limited.
Oct 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Draw Your Tag, Not a Blank: FWP Expands Where You Can Buy Licenses
Montana's big game hunting season begins on October 24, with early youth deer hunt on October 15-16. Hunters can purchase licenses online, at FWP offices, or through local "License Ambassador" locations. Important details include card-only transactions at ambassadors, possible fees, and options for email or E-Tag licenses through the MyFWP app.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Sunday of antelope rifle opener cold and rainy in southeast MT, but hunters report improved antelope numbers
During the opening weekend of the antelope rifle season in southeast Montana, weather varied from sunny to cold and rainy. Harvest success for antelope hunters ranged from 53 to 61 percent across check stations, with adequate numbers reported. Upland bird hunters faced challenges due to poor bird numbers, impacting overall success rates.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Winter weather brings mixed hunter numbers and harvest for south-central Montana antelope opener
The general antelope hunting season in Montana opened on October 10, with check stations reporting varied attendance and success rates. Cold weather and snow impacted hunting, leading to fewer hunters at some stations. Upcoming youth deer hunts are scheduled for October 15-16, with regulations available online. The antelope season runs until November 8.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Region 4 commissioner proposes amendment to 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a virtual meeting tomorrow at 8 a.m., adding two items to discuss proposed amendments to the 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations. A special closed meeting will follow to address litigation strategy. Public comments on the amendments will be accepted until 4 p.m. today.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.13.26
Cold weather kept boat anglers away from Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter this past weekend, yet trout fishing thrived along shorelines. With stable weather expected, walleye fishing should improve at Canyon Ferry. Additionally, kokanee snagging is yielding larger fish at Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir, continuing through October 31st.
Oct 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Woman injured in moose encounter near McAllister
MCALLISTER – A woman was injured by a moose earlier this month on private land near McAllister. On Oct. 3, […]
Oct 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Partial closure at Makoshika State Park for noxious weed spraying next week
Makoshika State Park in Miles City will partially close from the switchbacks and above from October 13-16 for noxious weed spraying, pending weather conditions. The visitor center will remain open, and the Lower Group Use Shelter and trails below the switchbacks will still be accessible during this period.
Oct 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP seeking early input on Gallatin WMA management plan
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are gathering early public input to develop a management plan for Gallatin Wildlife Management Area, covering 8,611 acres near Big Sky. The plan will focus on habitat conservation, infrastructure maintenance, and managing human use to protect wildlife, with feedback requested by November 6.
Oct 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
General antelope season opens October 10
The general antelope season in Montana opens on October 10 and runs until November 8. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks offers resources including an online hunting forecast, a Block Management Program for accessing private land, and an interactive Hunt Planner. Hunters are advised to verify regulations as they may change annually.
Oct 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Pheasant hunting season to open October 10
Pheasant season in Montana opens on October 10, with over 15,000 birds released across state lands. Nonresident hunters may begin hunting on October 20. This initiative, ongoing since 2021, aims to promote hunting and conservation among new hunters. Safety tips for bear encounters and fire risks are advised for hunters.
Oct 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.5.26
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report – October 5, 2026 Early October is one of the most productive times of year […]
Oct 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Ramp-tastic Repair on the Bighorn
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announced the reopening of the boat ramp at Two Leggins Fishing Access Site on the Bighorn River after repairs. This popular site allows for fishing and float trips, restoring access for boaters. Users are encouraged to follow all posted regulations and boating safety practices.
Oct 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Tongue River Reservoir State Park update as of 9.28.26
As of October 1st, campsite electricity will be turned off for winter, except for Campers Point CP1-11, which has year-round electricity. Water access is also cut off, with the dump station remaining open year-round without water. Some restrooms will close, while boating caution is advised due to low lake capacity.
Oct 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Region 1 commissioner proposes amendments to 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations
Commissioner Ian Wargo proposed four amendments to the 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations ahead of the Oct. 14 Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting. Proposed changes include modifications to harvest limits and fishing methods for various lakes and rivers, with opportunities for public comment extending until Oct. 9.
Sep 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
55 Degrees and Feelin’ It: Fort Peck’s Egg Take Gets Underway
As Fort Peck's Chinook season transitions, the lower dam-end bays will offer snagging and archery opportunities starting October 1. Anglers and bow-fishers are encouraged to respect etiquette and avoid dock-side fish-gutting. Meanwhile, electrofishing crews are collecting Chinook for hatchery breeding, vital for maintaining the fish population.
Sep 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
The paddlefish season’s over — now your tag tells the rest of the story
As the 2026 paddlefish season concludes in Montana, MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks will survey selected anglers through phone calls and online surveys. The feedback, whether from successful trips or blank years, is essential for managing paddlefish populations. Non-responders will be contacted multiple times for their input.
Sep 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Block Management: Forty Years of Handshakes
Block Management, initiated in 1985 and expanded in 1996, fosters positive relationships between landowners, hunters, and resource managers in Montana. The Hunter Landowner Stewardship Program offers online training to promote ethical hunting on private land. Participants can enter a raffle for hunting gear and guided hunts, encouraging responsible practices.
Sep 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Wants Your Two Cents Before Halloween
This week, FWP opened public comment on eight projects, including controlled burns at Spotted Dog WMA, new amenities at Travelers' Rest, and bank repairs for Smith River boat camps. Additional topics include bass removal from Sacajawea Lagoon and a 99-year easement at Hannah Ranch. Deadlines range from Sept. 30 to Oct. 25.
Sep 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Five Hours, Two Nos, One Green Light
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission held a five-hour meeting where two citizen petitions were unanimously declined: one for 24-hour trap checks on public land and another mandating bear spray in grizzly areas. However, a proposal to draft a predator management policy passed, allowing further public review and comment.
Sep 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Sit Through the Course, Show Up for the Fun Part
Montana's outdoorsmen can participate in a final hunter education field day on Sunday, Oct. 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fire Hall in Bainville. Open to individuals aged 11 and older, this event covers firearm safety and hunting ethics. Pre-registration is required, and participants must complete the online course first.
Sep 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Game wardens seek information on deer killed out of season south of Billings
Witness images show white flatbed truck at scene BILLINGS – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are looking for […]
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Meeting scheduled in Livingston to discuss removal of illegally introduced bass in Sacajawea Lagoon
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks plans to remove illegally introduced bass from Sacajawea Lagoon in Livingston and will hold a public meeting on October 1 at 5 p.m. to discuss the project. The meeting aims to inform the public about the initiative and long-term management plans for the fishery. Public comments are welcome until October 2.
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Keeping Tabs on Montana Wolves
Monitoring wolves in Montana requires keen observation, patience, and resilience against cold. This episode of FWP Field Trips, featuring specialist Sarah Zielke, explores the practical aspects of tracking wolves, checking dens, and searching for pups, showcasing the realities of wolf conservation beyond mere data collection.
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF WOLF CLOSURE – WMU 313
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that the designated Wolf Management Unit has reached its hunting and trapping quota for wolves. Consequently, the area will be closed to such activities starting 24 hours from the notice, specifically at 11 A.M. on Friday, September 25, 2026.
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Friday Night Lights Out for Black Bear Season in BMU 700
Black bear management unit 700 will close to hunting one-half hour after sunset on September 25, 2026. Hunters are advised to review regulations before heading out, as this is the final opportunity to hunt bears in this area. Stay safe and good luck!
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Breaking News: Local Gets Lost, Town Loses Its Mind
A yearling male mountain goat wandered into Bozeman, causing a stir by settling in a church parking lot. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff deemed it healthy but confused. After safely transporting it back to the Gallatin Range, locals appreciated the coordination that ensured its safe return without disturbance.
Sep 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Attention Montana Bear Hunters: Here’s the 4-1-1 on BMU 411
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced the closure of Black Bear Management Unit 411 to all black bear hunting, effective Thursday, September 24, 2026, starting 30 minutes after sunset. This decision aims to manage black bear populations within the designated area.
Sep 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Angling closure lifted on Section 5 of Big Hole River
Spawning closures for trout will commence on the Big Hole River from Dickie Bridge to the Jefferson River on October 1, while Section 5's angling closure has been lifted due to improved water flows. Section 1 remains closed. Anglers are encouraged to reduce fish stress by quickly netting, keeping fish in water, and reviving them before release.
Sep 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Water Closures and Restrictions: What You Need to Know
Montana's rivers and lakes face restrictions due to low water levels, fish protection, and construction. Notable closures include the Beaverhead River's fishing, sections of the Big Hole River, floating on the Blackfoot River, and access to a portion of the Missouri River. Always verify current restrictions before heading out.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Game wardens seek information on mule deer buck shot and wasted north of Hardin
Those with information encouraged to report HARDIN – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are seeking information on a […]
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Duck, Duck, Youth Hunt!
Montana’s Youth Waterfowl Weekend takes place on September 26–27, allowing hunters aged 15 and under to pursue waterfowl statewide. Licensed hunters aged 12–15 must be accompanied by a nonhunting adult, while apprentice hunters aged 10–15 need a mentor. All hunting regulations apply, including limited hours at Canyon Ferry WMA.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 9.21.26
Canyon Ferry has slow fishing with walleye and rainbows moving to shallow waters. Best spots include mid-reservoir and areas around Snaggy Bay. Hauser offers good rainbow catches below the dam, while Holter sees excellent trout fishing, though walleye activity is low. The Kokanee Salmon snagging season is currently open.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF BLACK BEAR CLOSURES BMUs 510 & 520 Today
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that hunting for all black bears in management units 510 and 520 will be prohibited starting one-half hour after sunset on September 21, 2026.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Baa-d News for Bighorns? Escaped Ewe Sparks Wildlife Warning
Montana wildlife officials are seeking public help to find a missing hybrid female Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, which escaped from a private facility. This 120-pound sheep, primarily white with a red ear tag, poses a disease threat to wild bighorn populations if encountered. Sightings should be reported to FWP.
Sep 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
New Ground to Hunt in Region 3
The USDA Agricultural Research Station in Region 3 is now part of the Block Management Area, allowing limited hunter access while complying with federal regulations. Historically misidentified as BLM land, it is land used for research. Hunters must sign up by September 21 to access this area in October.
Sep 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Grizzly bear euthanized near Augusta in response to livestock depredation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—Sept. 17, 2026 GREAT FALLS – A grizzly bear was euthanized Tuesday evening southwest of Augusta. The bear […]
Sep 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bitterroot River Access Alert: Woodside Bridge FAS Closing for Several Days
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks warns Bitterroot River visitors that vehicle access to Woodside Bridge Fishing Access Site will close from Sept. 22–25 and Sept. 29–Oct. 1 due to Montana Department of Transportation work on Highway 323. However, the walking path will remain open for river access. Signage will be posted to inform users.
Sep 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Chase the Hunt, Protect the Tradition
With all the excitement of what we’re chasing in the field this fall, FWP has a reminder worth carrying along […]