Jul 13, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
When Trails Trend: UM Graduate Tracks Social Media Impact on Montana Landscapes
User-created paths often form organically over time, but in the modern digital world the resulting impacts are magnified with increased exposure. These “destination social trails” lead to places that have become popular through digital media, essentially “trending” outdoor destinations.
Jul 13, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
DEQ to formally list Big Hole River as impaired for eutrophication and dissolved oxygen
What do you think of this action by Montana DEQ?
Jul 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
How Fawns Disappear: Nature’s Disappearing Act
A newborn fawn executes an extraordinary disappearing act by lying flat to blend into its surroundings. This impressive camouflage allows it to transform from a visible baby deer into an almost invisible part of the forest floor, showcasing nature's evolutionary brilliance in stealth and survival.
Jul 10, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Human remains found near Revenue Flats identified
The victim had been missing for decades.
Jul 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Bear activity reported on trail system near Columbia Falls
Take note!
Jul 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Montana MLLB awards funds to decrease predation
HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Livestock Loss Board, an attached agency of the Montana Department of Livestock, is awarding $58,429 in […]
Jul 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 7.3.26
Canyon Ferry's water level is rising due to recent rains, benefiting both walleye and trout fishing. Anglers report walleye sizes between 12" to 14", with effective bait colors being dark with lighter bellies. Trout are very active, particularly at water temperatures of 62 to 64°F. Inflow is 6500cfs, and the lake level is 87.3% full.
Jul 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
New Management Rules for Mountain Lions in Southwest Montana
Montana’s Fish and Wildlife Commission just shook up the rules for the upcoming mountain lion hunting seasons, mainly focusing on […]
Jun 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Bitterroot River Fishing Update 6.28.26
The Bitterroot river is experiencing high water levels due to late-season snowmelt and rainfall, affecting fishing conditions. Despite challenges, trout are active, hiding along banks and in quieter areas. Strategies include using heavy nymphs in the morning, targeting hatching insects midday, and fishing caddis at dusk for best results.
Jun 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Concealed Carry Debate: Safety vs. Safetyless Pistols
The concealed carry community is divided over the necessity of external safety mechanisms on firearms. Traditionalists favor them for added security, while minimalist purists argue they can hinder timely response in emergencies. Understanding the nuances of both perspectives is essential, as personal training and comfort levels play critical roles in this debate.
Jun 24, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Gov. Gianforte on Oregon Measure to Ban Hunting and Fishing: “That’s Absolutely Crazy”
“Here in Montana, hunting and fishing is integral to our way of life. To all those Oregonians who want to outlaw hunting and fishing, please stay out of Montana.” -Gov. Gianforte
Jun 19, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Forest Service Proposes First National Policy for Recreational Climbing on Public Lands
The U.S. Forest Service will publish a proposed climbing directive in the Federal Register and initiate a 30-day public comment period.
Jun 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Online Registration for Game Damage Hunts Opens June 15
Starting June 15, Montana hunters can register online for the annual Game Damage Hunt Roster through MyFWP, aimed at curbing damage from deer, elk, and antelope. Registration runs until July 15, with an additional roster for bison. Hunters must choose one district and may not be guaranteed a hunting opportunity.
Jun 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
How to Properly Acclimate for High-Altitude Climbing
Climbers face severe risks in the "death zone" of Everest, at 26,000 feet, where thin air makes survival difficult. Altitude sickness can lead to serious health issues when the body cannot adapt quickly enough. Acclimatization and a gradual climb are essential, as even experienced climbers are not immune to its dangers.
Jun 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF SPRING BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMUs 300, 301, 319, 580
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that hunting districts 300, 301, 319, and 580 will close for all black bear hunting due to exceeding a 37% female harvest. The closure will take effect one-half hour after sunset on June 3, 2026.
May 30, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Outdoor Podcast – FWP Director Christy Clark Talks Corner Crossing
This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with the Director of Montana Fish, Wildlife and […]
May 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
The End of the Casual Drive-Thru Whitetail: Why Region 6 Just Placed a Deadline on Your Fall Plans
For years, hunting antlerless white-tailed deer in Montana’s Region 6 followed a familiar, comfortable rhythm. You’d pack your gear, drive […]
May 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Body Found in Flathead Lake Near Bigfork
The waters of Flathead Lake are usually where we go to find a piece of ourselves—to catch a rising trout, […]
May 26, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Fall moisture, mild winter fuel increases in observed mule deer across southeast MT
Wildlife biologists recently completed mule deer aerial spring surveys across southeast Montana’s Region 7, and for the third straight year the total number of observed mule deer and overall densities have increased.
May 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catching Memorial Day Memories
The Fort Peck Headquarters got some VIP company over the holiday weekend. Kelsey—daughter of the Captain himself—and her boyfriend, Chris […]
May 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Western Montana Fly Fishing Report – Week of May 19, 2026 | Lightweight Fly Shop
Western Montana's rivers experience high-water conditions from May 19–25, 2026. While improvements are noted, anglers should focus on slow water areas between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. The Bitterroot River is highlighted for its fishable channels, but caution is necessary due to debris. Subsurface techniques, particularly heavy nymphs and streamers, are most effective.
May 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Have opinions on fishing? FWP wants your two cents.
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.
May 5, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Texas man sentenced for trafficking eagles
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 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Missouri River: May 2026 Status Report
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.
May 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
2026 Elk Hunting Changes in Region 1
Region 1 hunters face new rules for antlerless elk: B-Tags are now private-land only, PTHFV permits no longer cover antlerless elk, and archery hunting for cow elk is discontinued to reduce harvest pressure.
Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missed the draw? Montana’s nonresident backup list opens May 1
Montana’s Nonresident Alternate’s List opens for a second chance at hunting tags from May 1 to June 1. Join for free, with no risk to preference points, and wait for possible openings.
Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
The “Upgraded Childhood” Comfort Bowl: Smoked Fish Mac ’n Cheese
The Smoked Fish Mac recipe transforms childhood comfort food into an adult gourmet dish, combining smoked fish, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy topping, perfect for cold weather and easy preparation.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Series of Montana poaching crimes leads to lifetime loss of hunting and fishing privileges for Tennessee man
Apr 21, 2026 3:54 PM HAMILTON– Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens report that Jerry “Trey” Truitt III of Tennessee […]
Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Montana Pheasant Hunt Turned Grizzly
Imagine waking up thinking about bagging a few pheasants and ending the day with 320 stitches and a crazy story […]
Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Old-School Gear vs. Modern Tech: A Showdown
The Day Modern Tech Met Old-School Iron In the battle between the 21st century’s most advanced communication tool and a […]
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 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Spring Woods Stereotypes: The 4 Faces of Turkey Season
From old-school purists to aggressive stalkers, spring turkey season brings out every type of hunter. Discover the four distinct archetypes you'll encounter in the timber and how they fill tags.
Apr 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Heavier Metal: The 2026 Guide to Not Missing That Tom
Outdoor Life’s Alex Robinson reveals that while pricey TSS loads dominate at 60 yards, "the shooter is almost always the weakest part" and high-tech ammo can't replace old-fashioned woodsmanship.
Apr 11, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Montana U.S. Senator Sheehy makes an emergency landing in Madison County
The Madison County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an emergency aircraft landing this afternoon involving a privately-operated plane […]
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Wednesday Morning Marmot: Why We’re All Just Large Rodents in Business Casual
We’ve all been there. It’s 9:01 AM on a Monday…or a Wednesday, appropriately. You have your coffee in one hand […]
Mar 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Gone but Not Forgotten: A NW Montana Hunter’s Final Trophy
Tom Welch clears the air on a legendary Northwest Montana whitetail. This "buck of a lifetime" carries a tragic weight, as the hunter passed away the same night he harvested it.
Mar 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing Strategy Insights from March 25, 2026 by Fins and Feathers
Trout are currently inactive in fast currents, preferring calm areas. Successful fishing requires precise, clean drifts with deeper nymphs and smaller streamers. Focus on lazy water for better results.
Mar 26, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Ice Out, Turkey Scouts, and FWP Updates: Week of March 26
Discover Montana's late March outdoor transitions: ice breakout fishing, spring turkey scouting, shed hunting tips, and wildlife updates for 2026's best season.
Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
So… There’s a Grizzly Bear in Your Yard. Now What?
Picture this: you step outside with your morning coffee, ready to enjoy the peaceful countryside… and there’s a grizzly bear […]
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 15, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
More than 156,000 geese push through Freezout Lake WMA in past six days
The migration is on at Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area near Choteau, where bird counters have observed more than 156,000 light geese and hundreds of swans pushing through!
Mar 15, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
North Idaho angler hauls in new state record cutthroat trout
Imagine then the wave of hysteria after reeling in a 27-inch long Westslope cutthroat trout one day. For Coeur d’Alene angler Kyle Hatrock, that day was Feb. 1.
Mar 12, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Volunteers sought to monitor osprey nests in Flathead Valley
As spring approaches in northwest Montana, the return of ospreys signals the beginning of another breeding season in the Flathead Valley. The Flathead Audubon Society is inviting community members to help track the health of the local osprey population through its Osprey Nest Monitoring Project.
Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Food Coma Phenomenon: Why Bears (and Humans) Crash After a Big Meal
From berry-stuffed bears to hunters nodding off at daybreak, the “eat big, pass out” pattern shows up across species. Here’s why food comas look so similar in the wild and at home—and how the same instincts can kick in when calories are plentiful.
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 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
Best Nymph Rigs for the Gallatin River (Plus Top Flies & Where to Fish at 301 CFS)
With the Gallatin running at 301 CFS at Gallatin Gateway, The River’s Edge reports fishing has been phenomenal—and even a colder stretch shouldn’t slow the bite much. Most consistent action is still subsurface: nymph rigs through deeper seams and buckets, or covering water with streamers. Here’s what’s working, plus section-by-section tips for fishing the Gallatin from Yellowstone to the Valley.
Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Livingston, MT Fishing Report (Feb 15–Mid-March): Prime Afternoons, Slow Water, and a Growing Shot at Big Pre-Spawn Rainbows
Winter still has a say, but the Livingston-area bite improves steadily through mid-March—especially for bigger pre-spawn rainbows. Focus on afternoons (possibly late morning by March 1), fish low-and-slow in deep walking-pace pools, and watch for brief midge or winter BWO activity on warm, calm days. Here’s the latest river-by-river guidance from Yellowstone Country Fly Fishing.