Apr 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Missouri River BWO Hatch: Days Left Before Runoff Shuts It Down
BWO hatches are peaking on the Missouri, Bighorn & spring creeks RIGHT NOW — but runoff is closing this window fast. Here's where to go this week.
Apr 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Below-Normal Snowpack, But Idaho Outfitters Expect Strong Whitewater Season and Urge Early Bookings
With snowpack levels at about 75 percent of normal in the Salmon River Basin and Clearwater Basins, outfitters won’t have to worry about delaying the start of the whitewater season because of scary, high-water peaks that aren’t safe for the general public. So that opens the door for booking trips earlier than normal.
Apr 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Best Walleye Spots at Fort Peck from Don Wilkins
Walleye fishing at Fort Peck remains productive, especially near the Dam and Duck Creek. Effective methods include using Marble Eye jigs and dragging fathead minnows on various jigs.
Apr 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Fort Peck Post-Spawn Walleye: Where the Big Females Go Next
Fort Peck's big female walleye are leaving the shallows right now. Here's exactly where they go and how to catch them this week.
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Record Walleye Egg Collection at Fort Peck: What’s Happening?
The fish are officially “swiping right” at Fort Peck, and the Big Dry Arm is currently the place to be. […]
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Glacier National Park Area Fishing: The April Update
Early spring runoff in the Flathead Valley has led to higher water levels and good fishing conditions near Glacier National Park. Anglers are encouraged to adapt to changing waters for success.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catch Trophy Trout in Murky Yellowstone Waters
The Yellowstone River currently has a flow of 4,110 CFS with murky conditions, yet offers productive fishing for trophy trout. Anglers can target larger fish before upcoming runoff increases.
Apr 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Mid-April Angling Outlook: Navigating the Pre-Runoff Transition in Western Montana
Lightweight Fly Shop advises anglers in Western Montana to adapt as the Skwala hatch wanes. Opportunities persist with BWOs and March Browns, especially in clear waters of the West Fork.
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Top Fishing Spots by Chancy in Flathead: April 2026
This week’s fishing report highlights the best spots around Flathead, including East Bay for perch, Bitterroot for trout, and various lakes for bass and pike, ensuring a successful outing.
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Experience the Best Smallmouth Fishing in Montana
Captain Lee of Fish On Charters excels at locating elusive smallmouth bass, ensuring an active fishing experience. For an exceptional day on the water, contact him at 406-844-FISH.
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 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Fort Peck Walleye Spawn 2026: Peak Bays and Rigs Producing This Week
Fort Peck walleye are in peak spawn mode right now — here's which bays are firing, what rigs to run, and how many days you have left.
Apr 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Fishing Report by Capital Sports 4.9.26
Spring fishing in the Helena valley is improving, with notable action in Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter lakes. Anglers report success with various baits as fish awaken and prepare to spawn.
Apr 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Dry Fly Action Is Heating Up on the Missouri!
The Missouri River Ranch welcomes spring fishing with rising trout and hatches, as anglers prepare for Opening Week. Expect good catches with midges, BWOs, and various nymph patterns.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ice Out, Rods Out: The Spring 2026 Report by Madison River Outfitters
Early spring fishing opportunities are emerging in Montana as ice melts, with lakes and rivers opening for activities. Expect good hatches and varied conditions, particularly on Madison and surrounding waters.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Fishing Report for April 10, 2026
Fort Peck fishing is thriving despite cold weather. Walleye are found in 5-14 feet, while Lake Trout prefer 25-35 feet. Use specific jigs and trolling speeds for success.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone River and Livingston Area Fishing Report – April 9, 2026
Spring fishing in Yellowstone Valley is thriving as river temperatures approach 50°F, awakening trout. Anglers can target rainbows with nymphs and dry flies, especially in mid-afternoon.
Apr 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Waking Up the Mo: Montana’s Early Season is Officially On Fire
Spring in Montana marks prime fly fishing season on the Missouri River, with healthy trout feeding aggressively. April offers peaceful conditions and a special for guided trips at Montana Fishing Guides.
Apr 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing the Kootenai River: 20,000 CFS Survival Guide
The Kootenai River is currently high but clear, offering good fishing conditions. Focus on nymphing in deep, soft water for trout, while spring hatches are beginning to emerge.
Apr 8, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Drought, Low Snowpack and Dry Soils Point to Low Hebgen Reservoir Levels This Season
Drought conditions, low soil moisture and low snowpack are contributing to a forecast of low water supply to Hebgen Reservoir this season.
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Navigating Rock Creek’s Spring Surge as it Scores a 4/5 for Fishability
Rock Creek offers ideal fishing conditions despite high water. Focus on nymphing and deep strategies with effective flies as hatches begin. Watch for weather changes affecting creek flows this week.
Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cold Fronts and Deep Buckets: The Bozeman “Slow-Mo” Report
Recent snowy conditions have shifted Bozeman’s fly fishing from spring excitement back to winter tactics. Anglers should focus on deep water and slow presentations to entice trout, which are currently inactive.
Apr 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Despite March Storms, Warm Weather Causes Early Snowmelt and Reduces Streamflow Forecasts
Storms in the first half of March delivered one to ten inches of snow water equivalent (SWE) to SNOTEL sites in the northwest, west, and central regions of the state.
Apr 7, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
The Skwala Stonefly: The Star of Spring on the Bitterroot River
The Bitterroot River's BWO hatch is peaking right now. Here's exactly where to wade, what to tie on, and how long you have before runoff ends it.
Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Weekly Reel: Chancy’s Guide to the Local Lakes
Chancy’s Fish Camp advises anglers to target active fish at local lakes, including pike, lake trout, and perch. Compliance with regulations is emphasized as spring fishing heats up.
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 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
What a Pike’s Diet Reveals About Nature
Turns out this pike wasn’t a mutant; it just ate something so vibrant it effectively turned the predator’s stomach into a leaky fountain pen.
Apr 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Great Falls Area Fishing Report: April 3, 2026
Spring has arrived in Central Montana, enhancing fishing opportunities on the Missouri River as temperatures rise, attracting trout and pike into shallower waters.
Apr 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Spring Fishing Tips for Southwest Montana’s Trout
Southwest Montana's fishing conditions are improving as trout become active in warming waters, with successful hatches and ideal strategies for targeting deeper runs amid spawning activities.
Apr 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catch More Fish This Spring: Tips for Lake Trout and Perch
Spring fishing is thriving, especially for lake trout and quality perch in East Bay, making it an optimal time for anglers to enjoy fishing.
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 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri River Fishing Report: Perfect April Conditions
The Missouri River is in prime fishing condition with steady flows and warming temperatures. Midge activity is high, making it an excellent time for fishing, especially before summer crowds arrive.
Apr 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Willkins’ Weekly Fort Peck MT Fishing Report 4.2.26
Walleye and Northern pike fishing at Peck has been productive, especially with 1/4 ounce jigs. Lakers are also being caught using crankbaits in deeper waters. Water temperatures remain cold.
Apr 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Watch This Funny Fish Mishap: A Must-See Video!
A girl’s attempt to save a fish results in an unexpected mess, leading to a humorous moment that delights her father in this entertaining video.
Apr 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Is the Boulder River Ready for Spring Fishing?
The Boulder River is still experiencing winter conditions despite the arrival of spring. While fishing is decent, especially with smaller nymph patterns, water temperatures remain low. Anglers are encouraged to explore better fishing spots like Paradise Valley Spring Creeks near Livingston until the Boulder improves in mid-April.
Apr 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Best Places to Catch Steelhead on Upper Salmon River
Steelhead fishing on the Upper Salmon River shows clear success upstream of the East Fork, with 4-hour catch rates, while downstream conditions remain poor with long wait times.
Mar 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
Great Falls MT Area Spring Fishing Report
The Missouri River is awakening for spring fishing, featuring midges, rising trout, and post-spawn pike, creating ideal conditions for anglers seeking diverse rewards.
Mar 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Spring Fishing Conditions: Stillwater River Update
The Stillwater River is returning to cool spring conditions after a brief warm spell. Fishing improves gradually as water temperatures rise, with peak productivity typically after spring runoff.
Mar 30, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Beyond Maclean: 7 Fly Fishing Books Every Montana Angler Must Read
Rivers are blown out. Here are 7 essential fly fishing books with Montana roots to read while you wait out spring runoff.
Mar 30, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Fresno Reservoir Public Meeting April 9: What Hi-Line Anglers Need to Know
Montana FWP hosts an April 9 open house in Havre to share updates on Fresno Reservoir fisheries management, 2025 netting results, and 2026 Milk River water forecasts.
Mar 30, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Canyon Ferry’s Sunken Tree Hotspots: Where Walleye Are Stacking Now
Canyon Ferry is post-ice-out and walleye are stacking near submerged Christmas tree structure. Here's exactly where to target them this spring.
Mar 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Gallatin River Fishing Report: Conditions & Hatches
The Gallatin is currently playing a bit of a “wait and see” game after the recent warm spell gave the […]
Mar 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
5 Montana Walleye Reservoirs to Fish Before April Runoff Muddies the Water
Target Montana's top 5 reservoirs for prime walleye fishing in late March before April's snowmelt turns clear waters muddy and shuts down this golden pre-runoff window.
Mar 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Zebra Mussels 2026: Which Montana Waters Are at Risk and What Every Angler Needs to Know Before Launch Day
Zebra mussels threaten Montana's top fisheries in 2026. Here's which waters are at risk and what FWP's boat checkpoints mean for you this spring.
Mar 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Holter Lake Fishing Report 2026: What’s Biting Right Now After Ice-Out (And Where to Find Them)
Current Holter Lake fishing report: post ice-out walleye, perch & trout action, dam tailwater conditions, and exactly where fish are holding right now.
Mar 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Latest Fishing Update from the Macman, March 27
Spring brings fishing opportunities as local waters awaken. The Macman’s March 27 report outlines hotspots like Yellow Bay and the Delta, while highlighting the impending salmon season at Lake Mary Ronan.
Mar 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Fort Peck Fishing Update: Early Season Insights
Fort Peck is thawing, with Duck Creek and Marina bays mostly ice-free. Caution is advised due to floating ice and debris. Fishing for walleye and pike is improving but remains inconsistent.
Mar 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Upper Madison Midday Hustle: Why You Should Be Fishing (Not Working) Right Now
The Upper Madison River is waking up for fishing. Optimal hours are 11 AM to 4 PM, focusing on nymphing techniques. Midge hatches are currently prominent, with Blue Winged Olives expected soon.
Mar 26, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana’s Drift Boat War: The Data Behind Crowded Rivers
Montana's rivers are overwhelmed with drift boats. Locals blame outfitters, guides blame DIYers—but the data reveals surprising truths about who's really crowding the water.