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NW Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 21, 2026): Cold Snap Builds Safe Ice, Bigger Lakes Finally Open
Read More: NW Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 21, 2026): Cold Snap Builds Safe Ice, Bigger Lakes Finally OpenLast week’s extreme cold and heavy snow dramatically thickened ice across NW Montana, opening up access to some larger lakes. With a warmer, wetter 7-day forecast (highs in the low 40s, lows near 30, possible rain), conditions could change fast—plan carefully and stay current on ice safety.
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Montana Late-Winter Fly Fishing Report & Forecast 2026: Stable Flows, Clear Water, Active Trout on the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone & Missouri
Read More: Montana Late-Winter Fly Fishing Report & Forecast 2026: Stable Flows, Clear Water, Active Trout on the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone & MissouriMontana’s late-winter fly fishing has been unusually steady in 2026, with mild temperatures keeping conditions stable. Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters reports solid clarity, consistent flows, and trout feeding more predictably than typical for this time of year—especially on subsurface presentations.
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NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s Biting
Read More: NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s BitingFrom Chancy’s Fish Camp in Evergreen, MT: ice conditions are a mixed bag across NW Montana—some lakes still have decent ice, others are getting questionable, and a few are leaning into “boat season” vibes. Here’s what to watch for (including pressure ridges) and what anglers are targeting: perch, salmon through the ice, plus trolling for…
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to Fish
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to FishAfter last night’s refreeze, Fort Peck Lake’s main lake has capped over again—but Fort Peck Marina says it’s “ABSOLUTELY not” safe to fish. Read the latest observations and safety guidance before you head out.
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Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding Areas
Read More: Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding AreasWith questions swirling from anglers, Don Wilkins went out to verify current ice conditions near the Fort Peck Dam. He checked the main channel and surrounding areas firsthand to give a clearer picture of what’s out there right now.
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Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 19, 2026): Significant Open Water, Shorelines Opening Up, Real Feel -16°
Read More: Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (Feb. 19, 2026): Significant Open Water, Shorelines Opening Up, Real Feel -16°Not much has changed in the ice’s favor at Fort Peck Lake this week. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports significant open water with pockets throughout remaining ice, with shelf ice and shorelines continuing to open up. Snow has started and the “real feel” temperature is -16°. Safety first on the ice.
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Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament Update
Read More: Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament UpdateMacman’s latest Flathead-area fishing report: Browns Lake is around 10 inches of ice and Upper Thompson about 6, but no ice is truly safe. Lake Mary Ronan and Flathead River sloughs are in good shape, colder temps should help, and McGregor Lake hosts a combo ice/open-water tournament next weekend. For open water, Yellow Bay has…
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Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open Water
Read More: Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open WaterStrong 20–30 mph winds are rapidly changing conditions on Fort Peck. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports remaining ice sheets have broken up, leaving a mix of wide-open water and unstable, fragmented ice—use extreme caution and avoid questionable surfaces.
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Missouri River Fishing Forecast (February 2026): Midges, 36°F Water Temps, and Winter Streamer/Trout Spey Opportunities in Craig, MT
Read More: Missouri River Fishing Forecast (February 2026): Midges, 36°F Water Temps, and Winter Streamer/Trout Spey Opportunities in Craig, MTFebruary on Montana’s Missouri River is quiet, cold, and—when weather cooperates—surprisingly productive. With snowpack running roughly 80–90% of average, steady flows, and that key 36°F water-temp line dictating fish behavior, expect midges, deep-bucket nymphing, a sneaky-good winter streamer bite, and Trout Spey anglers swinging heavier tips through prime holding water. Here’s the latest Craig, MT…
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Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice Access
Read More: Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice AccessLakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop shared an update (Feb. 17, ~6:30 p.m.) warning that the ice “did not make it” and the lake is blown open with no safe access. More updates are expected after the storm passes.
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Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley Reservoir
Read More: Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley ReservoirMontana FWP’s latest Helena-area reservoir update: ice is extremely variable, with open water in spots. Here’s where anglers are finding rainbows, walleye, perch, kokanee, and burbot—plus what’s being used and where conditions are unsafe.
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Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still Lingers
Read More: Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still LingersAnglers report Canyon Ferry is in transition: part ice, part open water, and heavily wind-dependent. Reports say it’s open from the dam to roughly Confederate Gulch, with much of the north end showing open water—but a lingering ice sheet past the Silos boat launch may be hard to spot from a distance. Use caution before…
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February Fishing Report: Missouri River Strategies
Read More: February Fishing Report: Missouri River StrategiesThe Missouri River fishing is improving despite some wind, with nymphing and midges being effective. Focus on subsurface techniques and smaller streamers for success during winter outings.
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The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under Ice
Read More: The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under IceThe video showcases a large largemouth bass beneath ice, demonstrating that these fish remain active in winter. Ice fishing persists as a popular winter activity, targeting various species, including bass.
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Winter Fishing Challenges on the Jefferson River in Montana
Read More: Winter Fishing Challenges on the Jefferson River in MontanaWinter fishing on the Jefferson River is challenging due to low trout densities. Patience with nymphing is necessary, but better fishing opportunities usually arise in early spring.
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Southwest Montana Fishing Report 2.13.26
Read More: Southwest Montana Fishing Report 2.13.26This winter fishing report for Southwest Montana details favorable conditions with mild temperatures, calm winds, and strong midge hatches. Key locations include the Lower Madison River, Gallatin River, and Paradise Valley Spring Creeks.
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NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26
Read More: NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26The Murphy lake derby is canceled, but several others remain active. Ice conditions vary, with good fishing reported for perch, salmon, and pike across various lakes. Stay safe on the ice.
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Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26
Read More: Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26Despite warm weather, ice conditions remain stable with 7-13 inches in various areas. Fishing activity is slowing, but decent catches persist. Caution is advised as temperatures are expected to drop soon.
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Current Fishing Conditions on the Lower Clark Fork River 2.10.26
Read More: Current Fishing Conditions on the Lower Clark Fork River 2.10.26The Lower Clark Fork River is fishable, with water temperatures around 45 degrees. Nymphing and streamers are recommended. Expect cool weather and a rain-snow mix this weekend.
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Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the Ice
Read More: Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the IceWhat started as just another drop through the ice quickly turned into something much bigger for angler Don Wilkins. Almost […]
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Kootenai River Fishing Conditions: February Update
Read More: Kootenai River Fishing Conditions: February UpdateThe Kootenai River is currently fishable with flows at 4,000 cfs and water temperatures around 45 degrees. Focus on subsurface presentations and streamers for better trout catches this week.
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Tongue River Marina Ice Update 2.10.26
Read More: Tongue River Marina Ice Update 2.10.26Ice conditions at Tongue River Marina are unstable, with melting shoreline ice and only an inch of edge ice. Anglers are advised to exercise caution until temperatures drop and conditions improve.
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Dillon, MT Beaverhead River Fishing Report 2.9.26
Read More: Dillon, MT Beaverhead River Fishing Report 2.9.26Recent fishing conditions on the Beaverhead have been challenging due to low flows and clear water. Success requires stealth and patience, with anglers advised to use longer leaders and fish deeper with specific nymphs.
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Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MT
Read More: Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MTFirst Lake near Havre has ample open water according to social media reports, with locals encouraging boat use. Fresno Lake has also opened, indicating early opportunities for fishing.
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2026 Fort Peck Fishing Outlook Based on Water Levels
Read More: 2026 Fort Peck Fishing Outlook Based on Water LevelsFort Peck Reservoir is shaping up to be a steady, predictable fishing year in 2026. Water levels are expected to […]
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An Epic Ice Fishing Moment: Catching a Trophy Pike
Read More: An Epic Ice Fishing Moment: Catching a Trophy PikeIce fishing can lead to unforgettable experiences, like catching a trophy pike. Underwater footage captures the excitement, showcasing the thrilling moment from below the ice to its triumphant pull.
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Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow
Read More: Highlights from the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in GlasgowThe 28th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Glasgow attracted 150 participants despite warm weather, featuring competitions and prizes, including a $2,000 win for a 5.34-pound pike and free rods for youth anglers.
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February 2026 Fishing Report: Glacier National Park & Flathead Valley
Read More: February 2026 Fishing Report: Glacier National Park & Flathead ValleyFebruary fishing in Glacier National Park and Flathead Valley is unusually favorable due to mild temperatures and low snow, with anglers successfully using nymphs and streamers in altered winter conditions.
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Snowpack Deficits Grow Across Montana After a Dry, Warm January
Read More: Snowpack Deficits Grow Across Montana After a Dry, Warm JanuaryWell below normal January precipitation and unseasonably warm temperatures stalled Montana’s snowpack accumulation last month.
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Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26
Read More: Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26Anglers should exercise caution due to varying ice conditions. Fishing yields include rainbows at Canyon Ferry and Helena Valley, while Hauser and Holter have mostly open water and unstable ice.
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Unforgettable Ice Fishing: A 32-Inch Walleye Experience
Read More: Unforgettable Ice Fishing: A 32-Inch Walleye ExperienceAn ice angler captures a thrilling moment, pulling a massive 32-inch walleye while his kids watch, creating lasting memories and sharing the joy of fishing together.
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Fort Peck, MT Duck Creek Ice Update 2.6.26
Read More: Fort Peck, MT Duck Creek Ice Update 2.6.26Lakeride Lodging advises caution with current ice conditions, reporting approximately 5.5 inches of ice but acknowledging cracks and open water. Walking is recommended for safety while fishing.
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Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26
Read More: Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26Ice conditions and fishing varied this week in Rock Creek and McGuire. Reports noted strong northern bites in shallow water but melting shorelines and changing ice thickness require caution for safety.
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12 Creative Duct Tape Uses for Fishing Trips
Read More: 12 Creative Duct Tape Uses for Fishing TripsDuct tape is an invaluable fishing tool, offering twelve innovative uses such as repairing gear, waterproofing shoes, securing items, and improving grip, making it essential for any fishing trip.
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The Magic of Kids with Their First Fish
Read More: The Magic of Kids with Their First FishTaking kids ice fishing fosters excitement and connection to nature, emphasizing the joy of their first catch over limits or gear. Such moments create lasting memories and build confidence.
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Fort Peck’s Duck Creek Ice Report 2.5.26
Read More: Fort Peck’s Duck Creek Ice Report 2.5.26Lakeridge Lodging reports about 6 inches of ice on Duck Creek at Fort Peck Reservoir. Shorelines are becoming unstable, urging safe walk-on access and caution during winter activities.
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Livingtson, MT Yellowstone River Fishing Report 2.5.26
Read More: Livingtson, MT Yellowstone River Fishing Report 2.5.26Winter conditions persist in Yellowstone, with frigid water temperatures and sluggish fish behavior. Nymphing is most effective, while ice and wind complicate fishing. Stay alert to changing conditions.
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The Allure of Brown Trout Fishing in Montana
Read More: The Allure of Brown Trout Fishing in MontanaBrown trout are the fish equivalent of that quiet guy in the corner who turns out to be way tougher—and […]
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Best Flies for Missouri River Winter Fishing
Read More: Best Flies for Missouri River Winter FishingAccording to a report by The River’s Edge on February 2nd, Holter is cruising at 3560 CFS, and honestly, the […]
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Clark Canyon Reservoir Ice Report 2.3.26
Read More: Clark Canyon Reservoir Ice Report 2.3.26At Clark Canyon Reservoir, reports from anglers in ice fishing groups are stating that ice conditions are beginning to change. […]
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Join the Fun: Denise Schlegel Memorial Fishing Tournament 2026
Read More: Join the Fun: Denise Schlegel Memorial Fishing Tournament 2026The 3rd Annual Margo’s March Madness Fishing Tournament takes place February 28 and March 1, 2026, at Bitterroot Lake, promoting community, family fun, and honoring Denise Schlegel.
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Visit Gates of the Mountains: Open Water Fishing
Read More: Visit Gates of the Mountains: Open Water FishingThe Gates of the Mountains opens today at 7:30 a.m. for fishing, but visitors must bring exact change due to seasonal closures of facilities. Weather-related updates will be provided.
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Catch Big Fish and Win Prizes at Georgetown Lake
Read More: Catch Big Fish and Win Prizes at Georgetown LakeIf you’ve ever looked at a fish and thought, “Yeah… that one deserves some recognition,” The Lakehouse at Georgetown Lake […]
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New Idaho State Record Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Caught Ice Fishing
Read More: New Idaho State Record Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Caught Ice FishingThe mere act of even catching a Yellowstone cutthroat is a bucket list for many anglers. This one broke a record
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Bighorn River, MT Fishing Report for 2.1.26
Read More: Bighorn River, MT Fishing Report for 2.1.26Winter fishing on the Bighorn River is effective with trout lying deep. Key tactics include deep nymphing and slow streamers, focusing on stealth and depth due to cold conditions. Rainbows and browns are selective.
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Fish Hog vs Groundhog: Winter Predictions
Read More: Fish Hog vs Groundhog: Winter PredictionsGarrett Ostler’s entertaining video features a trout, dubbed a “fish hog,” predicting six more weeks of winter, offering anglers a lighthearted perspective on the season’s chilly performance.
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Fort Peck Marina Fishing Highlights with Kyle Mcgaugh
Read More: Fort Peck Marina Fishing Highlights with Kyle McgaughKyle McGaugh and his crew had a successful fishing trip despite deteriorating ice conditions. They caught nice fish and emphasized the importance of safety and monitoring changing weather conditions.
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Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.2.26
Read More: Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.2.26Anglers are reminded that ice conditions can be extremely variable. Ice thickness can range from thick enough to support a […]
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Cheyenne’s Fishing Success at Montana’s Georgetown Lake
Read More: Cheyenne’s Fishing Success at Montana’s Georgetown LakeCheyenne Chase caught a remarkable 3.83 lb fish at Georgetown Lake, showcasing the joy of fishing for kids. It highlights confidence, memorable experiences, and the rewards of patience.
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Ice Safety Alert: Man Falls Through Ice at Tiber Reservoir
Read More: Ice Safety Alert: Man Falls Through Ice at Tiber ReservoirA man fell through ice at Tiber’s west end, but survived due to a flotation suit and ice picks. Unpredictable ice conditions remind outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution and prepare adequately.