Aug 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 8.24.26
This week's fishing report around Helena highlights active catches of walleye, rainbows, and perch in Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter Reservoirs. Recommended techniques include bottom bouncers, jigs, and slip bobbers. Notable spots include Confederate Bay and the Causeway Arm, with kokanee fishing best in early mornings.
Aug 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
7 Year Old Twins Catch Walleye on Fort Peck
Twins Jacob and Sage Mulally from Lewistown, Montana, enjoyed an exciting fishing trip with their Grampa Joe Moline and Uncle Cameron. They caught impressive walleye, making it a memorable family adventure filled with excitement and togetherness. A beautiful day out on the water for the Mulally family!
Aug 22, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Catch Up on Last Week’s Montana Outdoor Radio Show August 22nd
Missed last week’s Montana Outdoor Radio Show? No worries. We’ve got the full show ready for you to catch up. […]
Aug 22, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Report: August 22nd The bite is on for those in the know.
The days are starting to get shorter, but the fish are not. Reports are in from across Montana and if […]
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.21.26
Walleye are being caught using bottom bouncers in 24-30 FOW with slow death hooks, especially favoring orange blades or white beads. Pike fishing is successful with crankbaits or spoons in 15-35 FOW, while salmon remain scarce but are being caught at 70-100 feet down with blues and greens, trolling at 2.1-2.2 MPH.
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri River Fishing Insights from Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports
Crisp mornings signal the approach of fall fishing along the Missouri River. As water temperatures cool, anglers can target walleye with jigs and drop shots, especially in the mornings. In more challenging areas, nymphing remains effective. Pike are actively chasing streamers, offering an exciting option for fly fishing.
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Latest Holter Fishing Update: Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports
Kokanee salmon and walleye are actively being caught at Holter Reservoir. Successful salmon fishing occurs 60 feet down using dodgers and hoochies, especially during early morning and evening. Walleye are found around deeper weed beds and drop-offs, responding well to jigs and jerk baits, with perch patterns being particularly effective.
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Prime Time Fishing at Hauser and Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir with Jonathan Miller, Capital Sports
It's prime fishing season at Hauser and Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir. Trout are active near Spokane Bay, while walleyes are thriving off weed lines, with large catches reported. At Regulating Reservoir, kokanee are biting at depths of 10 to 35 feet. Anglers are advised on effective tackle and techniques for success.
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports Reports the Walleye Bite Continues at Canyon Ferry
Canyon Ferry's south end walleyes are still actively biting, favoring bottom bouncer or lindy rigs with pink, purple, and blue tackle. The north end is yielding fewer but higher-quality fish, mainly rainbows, with deeper trolling techniques effective. The best areas are between White Earth and the dam.
Aug 20, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
3 Days Fly Fishing Montana’s Missouri River — What Out-of-State Anglers Need to Know
Desert Fly Duo spent 3 days fly fishing Montana’s Missouri River. Here’s what they found — and what you should know before you go.
Aug 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn on the Brain: Updates for Montana’s Premier Tailwater, Aug 16-23, 2026
The Bighorn River in Montana is experiencing optimal tailwater conditions with steady flows of 1,000–1,500 cfs and clear water below Yellowtail Dam. Ideal fishing times and insect patterns are crucial: early mornings feature Tricos and midges, while afternoons highlight PMDs and Black Caddis, followed by hoppers and olives in the evening.
Aug 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Do You Have Fish Opinions? It’s Time to Weigh In.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks invites public feedback on upcoming changes to rivers and lakes management, including catch limits, at a meeting in Bozeman on August 27. They are discussing the 2027–2030 Statewide Fisheries Management Plan. Public comments can also be submitted online until September 14.
Aug 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bitterroot River Fishing Report: August Tips
Kingfisher Fly Shop advises anglers to fish the Bitterroot River before the 2:00 PM curfew due to Hoot Owl restrictions. With water flows at 791 cfs and temperatures in the low 60s, early morning is the prime time. Use stealthy techniques and target specific areas, focusing on topwater snacks and small subsurface patterns.
Aug 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fish Early, Quit by Lunch: Mid-August Western MT Fishing Report
Trout fishing in Western Montana is best from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM due to rising water temperatures. Key locations include Bitterroot and Clark Fork Rivers, observing "hoot-owl" regulations. Recommended flies include Trico spinners and terrestrials. Utilize light gear and focus on shaded areas for optimal results before midday heat.
Aug 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Pike on the Fly Before Breakfast: Montana’s Most Underrated Summer Target
Northern pike on the fly rod — Montana’s most aggressive warmwater predator gets the early morning treatment in this must-watch episode from The Reel 406.
Aug 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Uncle Sam Just Unlocked 1,500 New Ways to Hunt and Fish
The Department of the Interior has announced a historic expansion of access to public lands, offering nearly 1,500 new recreational opportunities across 92 million acres. This includes access to 111 federal sites and simplifies regulations by removing over 1,000 rules. While many support the changes, concerns about management challenges due to budget cuts are raised.
Aug 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone River Fishing Report 8.17.26
Yellowstone Angler's August 17, 2026 report highlights muddy runoff impacting clarity in Yellowstone National Park, advising anglers to focus on lower river sections. With flows at 2,470 CFS and temperatures between 59.5°F and 64.4°F, fishing conditions are improving. Terrestrials are gaining traction, enhancing the chances of trout bites.
Aug 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing Conditions and Tactics on the Missouri River 8.16.26
CrossCurrents Fly Shop reports great fishing on the Missouri River this late summer despite decreased hatches. Tricos and terrestrial patterns like hoppers yield solid results, while nymphing offers the most consistent action. Anglers face "Hoot-Owl" restrictions in nearby waters. The shop has also launched its August raft rental sale.
Aug 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
10 Best Trout Lakes in Montana — What the Rankings Get Right, What to Know Before You Go
Montana has thousands of trout lakes. Here’s what to know about the 10 best — access, regulations, species, and timing — before you make the drive.
Aug 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Unpredictable Ocean Fishing…Thrills and Risks
Planning an ocean fishing trip can be exciting yet unpredictable. Unlike freshwater fishing in places like Fort Peck Reservoir, saltwater angling poses risks, as large predators lurk beneath the surface. Recent footage from New Jersey highlights the element of surprise that ocean fishing entails, showcasing the potential dangers awaiting anglers.
Aug 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Hidden Montana Hole Stacked With Rainbow Trout Over 20 Inches
FlyFishDan finds an unknown Montana spot loaded with 20″+ rainbow trout. Here’s why this video matters for local fly anglers this summer.
Aug 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Kootenai River Fishing Report: Flows, Hatches, and What’s Biting Below Libby Dam Right Now
Get the latest Kootenai River fishing report — current flows, hatch activity, best access points below Libby Dam, and fly recommendations for trout and whitefish.
Aug 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Fishing Montana in Fire Season: How One Angler Navigated Smoke, Closures, and Still Found Trout
Montana fly fishing in fire season is unpredictable. Here’s how to plan around smoke, closures, and hoot owl restrictions this August.
Aug 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.14.26
Walleye have become deeper but remain active, responding well to bottom bouncers and crankbaits in 25 to 35 feet of water. Smallmouths are concentrated on deep main points, feeding on 2-inch Cisco imitations. Pike are abundant and can be caught easily. A successful spawn of Cisco this spring is promising for fishing.
Aug 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cooler Nights Bring Fishing Opportunities in Montana
Montana's Fish, Wildlife & Parks has lifted fishing closures and some afternoon bans due to cooler nights improving water temperatures. However, several rivers remain under hoot-owl restrictions, requiring anglers to stop fishing by 2 PM. Anglers are encouraged to handle fish carefully and explore alternative high-elevation waters.
Aug 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Gallatin River Cheat Sheet
Yellow Dog Flyfishing offers essential tips for early-morning fishing on the Gallatin River. Fish at dawn to avoid Hoot Owl restrictions and high afternoon temperatures. Target cooler areas, using a dry-dropper rig with specific flies. Upcoming cooler weather promises improved fishing conditions. Don’t forget to purchase Montana fishing licenses online beforehand.
Aug 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
To Catch A Piranha…
Eight-year-old Seamus Coffey shocked his Delaware County, Pennsylvania community while fishing when he caught a red-bellied piranha, an unexpected find for local waters. Wildlife officials suspect it was a dumped aquarium pet. His catch has made him a local legend, highlighting the surprising twists that fishing can bring.
Aug 12, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Yellowstone lifts fishing restrictions on most rivers and streams parkwide
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, Wyo. – Beginning Aug. 12, Yellowstone National Park will lift the fishingrestrictions on rivers and streams that went into effect […]
Aug 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Rock Creek Fishing Report: Best Tips for Trout Success
A report from Grizzly Hackle highlights excellent fishing in Rock Creek, where trout are actively biting, particularly early and late in the day due to current restrictions. Dry-dropper setups are effective, with various flies suggested. Overall, water conditions have improved, contributing to a positive fishing experience.
Aug 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
First Walleye Catch for 9-Year-Old at Fort Peck
Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop celebrated Tobias, a 9-year-old from Billings, for catching his first Walleye. Congratulations to him! Visit Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop at 5990 MT HWY 24 S, Fort Peck, MT, and follow them on Facebook for more updates and news.
Aug 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Flathead Lake’s Whitefish Bite is on Fire!
Matt from Fish On Charters reports that perch fry in the north end are growing larger in some areas, though many micro perch remain. This suggests that the fishing season is expected to continue for several more weeks, offering opportunities for anglers.
Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Beat the Heat and Dodge the Smoke: How to Fish the Stillwater River This Week
This week, fish the Stillwater River near Absarokee early for the best results. Key times include 6-9 AM for midge and caddis hatches, 9 AM-noon for terrestrial flies, followed by a midday break. Evening fishing resumes at dusk with hoppers and BWO hatches. Use various flies for success, but avoid the heat.
Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Navigating August on the Blackfoot River: Hoot Owl Restrictions, Water Conditions, and Mid-Summer Tactics
August brings low, clear water to Montana's Blackfoot River, necessitating conservation rules to protect trout. Key fishing restrictions include Hoot Owl closures from 2:00 PM to midnight and a complete river closure from Weigh Station to the Clark Fork confluence. Anglers should adjust their tactics, focusing on early mornings and specific bug patterns for effective fishing.
Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 8.10.26
Walleye, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon are actively biting at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs. Optimal fishing spots vary by location, with effective techniques including trolling and jigging using various colored rigs. Rainbows are caught near dams, while kokanee fishing peaks early morning. Anglers are successfully using a mix of lures and baits.
Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Reeling in Memories: 8-Year-Old Conquers Fort Peck Through the Elements
Jake Schrock and his eight-year-old son, Michael, shared an unforgettable fishing trip at Fort Peck, Montana. Despite challenging conditions, Michael joyfully caught six lake trout and his first Chinook, including a remarkable 19-pound king salmon. This adventure showcased his potential as a passionate fisherman. Congratulations, Michael!
Aug 8, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Outdoor Radio Show – August 8th Recap
The Dog Days of Summer are here, and the Montana Outdoor Radio Show checked in around Montana for final updates […]
Aug 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Best Fishing Conditions: Paradise Valley & Yellowstone 8.5.26
In mid-August, fishing conditions improve with cooler water temperatures in the Yellowstone River, allowing for successful nymph and streamer fishing. Paradise Valley’s spring creeks and Yellowstone National Park also present good opportunities, especially with hoppers in the afternoons. Alpine lakes offer exceptional trout fishing, requiring careful preparation and stealthy techniques.
Aug 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.6.26
Walleye fishing remains strong, with success reported at 15-18 feet, using slow death hooks and half crawlers. Pike are abundant, caught by casting spoons or trolling crankbaits in depths ranging from 15 to 30 feet. Salmon fishing is challenging, with best results at 70-90 feet using specific gear.
Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri River (Holter to Great Falls) Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 8.6.26
When temperatures rise, trout congregate near dam releases, where the cold water is oxygen-rich. Effective flies include scuds and nymphs. Grasshoppers become viable for topwater fishing in summer evenings. In warmer downstream areas, larger pike lurk, best targeted with aggressive flies like black sex dungeons.
Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Going Deep, Striking Gold: Holter & Regulating Fishing Update by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports 8.6.26
Holter and the Regulating Reservoirs are seeing fluctuating fish activity, including kokanee, walleye, and pike. Kokanee are deeper, while walleye thrive in weed beds using jigs and drop shots. For effective results, use chartreuse, pink, or orange lures. Early mornings and evenings offer the best chances for bites.
Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing Strategies for Hauser by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 8.6.26
Hauser Lake is providing excellent late-summer fishing for walleye, pike, and trout. Walleye are active in weed beds using drop shots and jigs, while pike have become aggressive. Trout are deeper, with black/gold lures effective. Limited kokanee are caught, but tactics for trout still ensure a successful outing.
Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena
Canyon Ferry's fishing scene is thriving, with successful walleye catches from the south to north end, particularly using pink and other vibrant colors on bottom bouncers and jigs. Trout fishing is also fruitful in deeper waters, with bright deep diving cranks and troll setups yielding 2-3 pound catches.
Aug 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Setting the Alarm for Cold Water: Why the Yellowstone River is Firing on All Cylinders (Until 2 PM)
Recent cool nights have lowered Yellowstone River's water temperatures to a comfortable 61° to 68°, reviving the trout fishing season. Anglers are encouraged to explore various fly options, including nocturnal stoneflies and PMDs. Strict regulations are in place, requiring fishing to stop by 2:00 PM for conservation. Early mornings are ideal for optimal fishing.
Aug 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Rock Creek Fishing Report: Early Morning Techniques
Rock Creek is experiencing peak skinny-water conditions, making trout easy to spot but easily spooked. Wading is essential as floating is prohibited. Fish early to avoid hoot owl restrictions. Target structural areas with terrestrial flies like hoppers and ants. Adjust tactics with nymphs and streamers for aggressive strikes. Enjoy the fishing while adhering to rules.
Aug 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
August in Southwest Montana: Beat the Heat, Dodge the Smoke, and Catch Some Trout
Southwest Montana is experiencing a relentless heat wave, with heavy wildfire smoke impacting fishing conditions. However, a cool-down is expected soon, providing favorable fishing conditions. Local guide David Kern advises anglers to fish early, especially on the Upper Madison River, Yellowstone River, and Gallatin River, while adhering to Hoot Owl restrictions.
Aug 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Walleye and Trout Fishing Updates in the Helena Area Reservoirs 8.3.26
Montana's Missouri River reservoirs provide varied summer fishing opportunities. Canyon Ferry is best for walleye and rainbow trout, while Hauser offers good rainbow action below Canyon Ferry Dam. Holter features kokanee among other catches. Anglers are adapting to changing fish patterns with specific techniques and locations for successful fishing.
Aug 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Chancy’s Fish Camp Flathead Area Fishing Report 7.31.26
Flathead Lake is experiencing an active whitefish bite, particularly in 50-60 feet of water. The north end catches smaller fish (1-3 lbs), while the south end yields larger ones (2-5 lbs). Various lures are effective. Additionally, other species like lake trout, smallmouth bass, and pike are thriving in nearby waters. Enjoy the fishing season!
Aug 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Lakes Fishing Report by Montana Angler 7.31.26
Montana Angler's July 31, 2026 report highlights the allure of sight-casting in stillwaters like Hebgen, Quake, and Ennis, despite rivers being popular. August's warm temperatures make lakes variable, yet morning and evening hatches provide thrilling gulper action. The report emphasizes the charm of fishing in lakes during summer's peak.
Aug 2, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
A Montana Outfitter’s 3 Must-Have Flies — And Why They Work on Our Rivers
A working Montana outfitter breaks down the 3 flies he never leaves home without — and the reasoning holds up on the Bighorn, Missouri, and beyond.
Aug 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Book Your Spot for Fort Peck Salmon Adventures with Fish On Charters: Limited Availability
Fort Peck isn’t handing out participation trophies. When that rod finally buries into the water, you aren’t fighting a minnow. […]