Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Big Hole Surges 17% While Madison Holds Steady: Where to Fish This Weekend

Madison and Missouri hold steady while Big Hole surges 17%. Southwest storm changes conditions through weekend—here's your fishing strategy.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

When Montana’s Dammed Rivers Fish Best: Reading Release Schedules

Learn how Montana dam release schedules affect trout fishing conditions and discover when to hit blue-ribbon waters for optimal angling success.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Where to Fish in Montana Right Now: Ice-Out Hot Spots and Spring River Action

Montana's ice-out season is here! Mid-March brings prime fishing as lakes thaw and rivers awaken. Get the latest conditions and hot spots.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Fort Peck, Canyon Ferry & Flathead Lake Ice-Out: March 2026 Predictions and Safety Updates

Discover Montana ice-out predictions for Fort Peck, Canyon Ferry & Flathead Lake in 2026. Get current ice conditions and fishing season timing updates.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

How to Catch Trout During Montana’s Spring Runoff

Learn how to fish during Montana's spring runoff and high water conditions. Expert tips for finding feeding trout when rivers run high and muddy.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Why the Double Dry Fly Rig Outfishes Modern Setups on Montana Streams

Discover why Montana's forgotten double dry fly rig catches selective trout when modern setups fail. Learn this elegant technique for summer hatches.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Why Montana’s Best Trout Anglers Are Ditching PowerBait for Flies

Top trout anglers are abandoning PowerBait for natural techniques. Discover why fly fishing skills matter more than stocked-lake baits in Montana waters.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Four CSKT Staff Win Major Conservation Awards — Here’s What It Means for Flathead Fishing and Wildlife

Four CSKT staff earned statewide conservation awards. Here's what their decades of work means for Flathead fishing, wildlife habitat, and Montana's wild future.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

How to Navigate FWP’s Hunting and Fishing Reg System Before Spring Seasons Open

Montana FWP's updated reg system is live. Here's how to navigate it fast before spring turkey, bear, and paddlefish deadlines hit.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bighorn River Fishing Report (St. Xavier) — March 11, 2026: Windy Week, Strong Nymphing on Sowbugs & Scuds, Plus Streamers

The Bighorn near St. Xavier is setting up for a productive week despite strong winds. Expect slightly warmer temps than Bozeman, consistent trout feeding on sowbugs and scuds, and surprisingly solid streamer action. Here’s the March 11, 2026 update from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, plus the nymph pairs and streamer patterns producing now.

Mar 12, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Nature is Fundamental to Ensuring that Economics and Communities in Montana Thrive

Investing in nature is one of the smartest investments governments can make, given the economic, health and public safety benefits nature provides, according to a new report commissioned by The Nature Conservancy.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Where to Fish Montana This Weekend: 72 MPH Winds and Rising Rivers

Western Montana rivers climbing fast with incoming storm. Madison stable at 329 cfs. Wind gusts to 72 mph today—here's where to fish.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Montana’s Ice-Out Fishing: Where to Hit Rivers and Reservoirs This Mid-March

Montana's mid-March ice-out brings prime spring fishing! Rivers warming, reservoirs opening up. Get the hottest spots and tactics for this week.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

When to Get Off the Ice: Canyon Ferry, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake Safety Before Ice-Out

Montana's ice fishing season nears end as March brings dangerous ice conditions. Essential safety tips for Canyon Ferry, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

FWP’s Hogan’s Slough Notice: What Region 5 Anglers Need to Check Now

FWP just posted new public notices affecting spring access and water projects. Here's what Montana hunters and anglers need to know right now.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Skip Yellowstone Crowds: Why Montana’s Best Fishing Is in Your Backyard

Montana's best fishing isn't in headline destinations. Skip the crowded national parks and discover world-class angling in your own backyard waters.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Spring FWP Closures Every Montana Hunter and Angler Must Know

FWP spring 2026 closures affect bear, turkey, shed hunting & fishing. Here's what you need to know before heading out this week.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

How to Fish Montana’s Rivers When Water Runs Dangerously Low

Montana's low rivers demand new tactics. Learn essential strategies for fishing drought conditions, protecting trout, and finding success when water levels drop.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

2026 Montana Fishing Licenses Are On Sale Now: Prices, License Types, Stamps, and the Fastest Way to Buy

Montana’s spring bite is already turning on—and 2026 fishing licenses are available now. Here’s the simple breakdown of resident and nonresident costs, the required Conservation License, species-specific permits (like paddlefish and sturgeon), and the quickest ways to buy through FWP before the opener rush.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Nymph Montana Trout Now: The Pre-Runoff Window Is Closing on the Clark Fork, Bitterroot & Blackfoot

Western Montana rivers are already running higher than normal for mid-March, and the clear-water nymphing window won’t last. Here’s how to take advantage of pre-runoff conditions—where to go, what to rig, and how to stay safe before snowmelt turns your favorite runs into chocolate milk.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Montana River Report: Western Rivers Spike 14% as March Melt Arrives (Clark Fork, Bitterroot, Blackfoot)

Southwest Montana rivers are holding steady and fishing well, but Western Montana is already surging—up 13–14% this week on the Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot as snowmelt kicks in. With a major Thursday–Friday weather system on the way, here’s a clear, river-by-river breakdown of flows, trends, and the best windows to fish before conditions change.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Upper Salmon River Steelhead Report (March 10, 2026): Improving Catch Rates, Stable Temps, and What to Watch Next

Idaho Fish and Game’s March 10, 2026 update points to increasing steelhead presence on the Upper Salmon River, with creel data showing improving angler success and river conditions (temperature and discharge) staying favorable for upstream movement. Here’s what the latest trends mean for anglers, conservation, and local businesses—and what to track as the season continues.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Jefferson River Fishing Report (Early Spring 2026): Where to Find Trout, Best Nymphs, and the Afternoon Bite

The Jefferson River is fishing tough but doable in early spring. Slow down, get deep in softer inside water, and plan around late morning through mid-afternoon. Here’s the latest Jefferson River report from Fins and Feathers (2/5 on March 9, 2026), including the nymph and streamer patterns producing now.

Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Montana Dangerous Ice Warning (March 11, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Holter, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake Conditions

Mid-March is Montana’s most dangerous stretch for ice fishing. Here’s what local guides, marina operators, and FWP officials are seeing on Canyon Ferry, Holter, Fort Peck, and Flathead—plus late-season safety gear, best practices, and when to switch to open water.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

5 Weird Bass Fishing Lures That Actually Catch Big Largemouth (Video)

Bass anglers will try almost anything to trigger a strike—and sometimes the strangest-looking baits are the ones that get crushed. Here are five of the “weirdest” bass fishing lures anglers swear by, according to Get Ur Fish On. Watch the video to see them all.

Mar 10, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Montana Fishing Forecast (Mid-March): Ice-Out Updates, Best Rivers & Lakes, and Top Flies as Spring Starts

Mid-March is Montana’s ice-out hinge point: dangerous, variable ice on many reservoirs, but growing open-water options and the season’s first meaningful midge windows. Here’s a historically grounded look at where to go this week, what to throw, and how to stay safe as waters transition to spring.

Mar 10, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Pre-Spawn Walleye Are Moving: How to Dial the Jig Bite Before They Slide Shallow

There’s a short spring window when pre-spawn walleye stack on breaks and points and the jig bite turns from slow to ridiculous. Here’s what Fish Head Assassin says to watch—water temps, weight, wind, and timing—so you stay in the strike zone while the fish are still willing.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bozeman Early Spring Trout Fishing Report (March 9, 2026): Best Techniques, Flies, and Peak Time Windows

Early spring trout fishing near Bozeman is improving week by week as rivers transition out of winter mode. Here’s what’s working right now—best time of day, where trout are holding, and the nymph and streamer setups producing on the Gallatin, Madison (upper/lower), and Yellowstone as of March 9, 2026 (5/5).

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Lake Fork Tournament Cheating Scandal: Angler Accused After Weights Found Inside Largemouth Bass

A Lake Fork, Texas fishing tournament turned surreal when staff used a metal-detecting wand on a largemouth bass—and later, game wardens reportedly found fishing weights inside the fish. Now the angler involved is facing serious legal consequences.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Missouri River Fishing in March 2026: Unpredictable Weather, Midge Hatches, and Prime Streamer Days

March on Montana’s Missouri River is rarely predictable—and 2026 could be even more of a wildcard with low snowpack and warming water. Here’s what to expect for midges, nymphing, streamer fishing, swinging flies, and the fickle spring weather that can make (or break) your day on the Mo.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP Upper Missouri River Fisheries Meeting (March 16, Helena): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter Updates

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hosts its annual Upper Missouri River Reservoir Fisheries Management Plan update on March 16 at 6 p.m. in Helena. Hear population trends and management updates for Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter, and nearby Missouri River sections—and learn what keeps these popular fisheries producing year after year.

Mar 9, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck King Salmon Derby: Registration Opens in 6 Days (150-Boat Limit) — Get Your Team Ready

Online registration for the 1st Annual Fort Peck Montana Tournament of Kings opens in 6 days, and with a 150-boat limit, spots could go fast. Here’s what to do now to be ready when the link drops—plus how to stay in the loop.

Mar 9, 2026 · Angela Montana

7 Rookie Ice Fishing Mistakes That Cost You Fish (And How to Avoid Them)

Ice fishing isn’t just drilling a hole and waiting. Catch more fish by moving, experimenting with depth and presentations, and paying attention to structure—plus learn seven common rookie mistakes to avoid, straight from @Girlof10000Lakes.

Mar 9, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Spring Walleye Fishing Tips That Work: Live-Bait Jigging, Channel Points, and a First Run in a New Warrior Boat

In a new on-the-water video, Tom Boley breaks in a new Warrior Boat while targeting early-spring walleyes with a simple, effective plan: jig live bait on channel points, lean on sensitive gear for subtle bites, and use modern electronics (plus dependable battery power) to fish with more confidence.

Mar 8, 2026 · Angela Montana

Stillwater River Fishing Report: Cold Water Now, Better Trout Action Ahead This Spring (Montana, March 6, 2026)

Montana’s Stillwater River is still running cold despite a warmer-than-average winter, keeping fishing from fully turning on yet. Low flows have trout holding in deeper slots, where patient nymphing has produced action. Here’s what Montana Angler reported on March 6, 2026—and what to expect as spring temperatures rise.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

Seeley Lake Ice Is Pulling Away From Shore: Anglers Report Deteriorating Conditions on the North End

Local anglers say ice conditions on the north end of Seeley Lake are deteriorating as warmer weather moves in, with open water growing along the shoreline. If you’re considering going out, use caution—ice can change fast when it starts separating from shore.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

NW Montana Fishing Report (March 5, 2026): Echo Open, Flathead Lake Laker Bite, Koocanusa Rainbows — Chancy’s Fish Camp

Northwest Montana waters are opening up fast. Chancy’s Fish Camp reports Echo Lake is fully open with early smallmouth showing, McGregor is producing lake trout and rainbows, Flathead Lake is fishing well for lakers, and Koocanusa is kicking out rainbows and bull trout. Plus: which Flathead River sloughs are open, a Thompson River update, and an ice-safety reminder.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

Canyon Ferry Lake Ice Is Gone: Boat Ramps Open and Spring Fishing Season Is Underway

Winter finally let go at Canyon Ferry Lake: the ice is officially gone, boats are already launching, and the ramps are open for spring anglers ready to get back on open water.

Mar 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Ice Fishing Report (March 6, 2026): Rock Creek Lakers in 65–80 Feet as Warm Front Threatens Safe Ice

A short cold snap tightened the ice on Rock Creek just enough for Don Wilkins to get back out on Fort Peck and pick up several lake trout on jigs and plastics in 65–80 feet—while warning that a warm front could quickly end safe ice. Here’s the latest report, plus safety reminders before you go.

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 5, 2026 · Angela Montana

Tongue River Reservoir Ice Update: Open Water at Ramps, But Boating Still Limited (FWP Report)

Spring breakup is underway at Tongue River Reservoir, with open water at both ramps and a few boats already out. But ice still blocks key stretches near the dam, between Sand Point and Pee Wee north, and at the far south end—limiting where you can safely travel right now. Here’s the latest access and ice update based on a recent FWP post.

Mar 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

10-Year-Old Lands Vermont State-Record Fish and $26K Prize — Why Fishing Derbies Keep Hooking Anglers

A 10-year-old angler landed a 28.5-pound freshwater drum during the Lake Champlain International Father’s Day Derby and eventually earned Vermont state-record certification — plus about $26,000 in prize money. From Lake Champlain to Montana’s seasonal contests, the appeal is the same: one unexpected bite can change everything.

Mar 3, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (March 2): Hell Creek Marina Says “Walk-On” Conditions Are Back

Hell Creek Marina in Jordan, Montana shared a March 2 ice update for Fort Peck Lake: based on water clarity, it appears the lake has rolled over and conditions are back to walk-on. Here’s what to know and what to watch next.

Mar 3, 2026 · Angela Montana

Kootenai River Fishing Report (Montana) Feb. 28, 2026: 4,000 CFS Flows, Cold Water Nymphing & Streamer Tips

Low, steady flows out of Libby Dam (4,000 cfs) and mild weather have the Kootenai River fishing very doable heading into early March. With water temps around 40°F, expect limited dry-fly action—but consistent nymphing and slow, deep streamer presentations can still turn up quality fish, especially in softer 5+ foot holding water.

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.

Mar 1, 2026 · Angela Montana

Tongue River Marina Ice Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Open Water Growing Near Ramp, Marina Bay Still Iced

Tongue River Marina reports 15–20 feet of open water off the ramp, with Marina Bay still mostly iced over but improving. More open water is showing from Rattlesnake south toward the mine as daytime temps warm—boat fishing could be just weeks away.

Feb 28, 2026 · Angela Montana

Whitefish & Kalispell Fishing Report (Feb. 27, 2026): Whitefish Lake Ice Holds Strong, Flathead River Bites on Sunny Days

Winter isn’t letting go yet—Whitefish Lake remains locked up with lake trout cruising deep structure, while the Flathead River rewards anglers who time it right. Here’s what’s producing now, from white tubes tipped with cutbait on the ice to nymphs and streamers in late-winter river water.

Feb 27, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bitterroot Lake Ice Update (Feb. 27, 2026): 4–5 Inches at North Access, Open Water at Reeds & South Ramp — No Machines

Bitterroot Lake ice has shrunk significantly with warm weather and wind. The north end county access is now 4–5 inches, the reeds are open water, and the south end boat access has open water at the ramp. No machines. Mandatory check-in at the Hilltop Hitching Post.

Feb 27, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Rock Creek Ice Update: Rapid Deterioration After Warm, Windy Days—Use Extreme Caution

Rock Creek ice briefly improved with last week’s colder weather, but recent warmth and wind have quickly degraded conditions. With no real cold ahead, the ice season is wrapping up—use extreme caution even on foot, as shifting ice and soft shorelines are increasing risk.

Feb 27, 2026 · Angela Montana

Lake Cascade Perch Debate: Would a 14-Inch Slot Limit Bring Back the 2-Pounders?

Anglers are split over Lake Cascade’s missing 2-pound perch: is it a natural age-class reset, or too much harvest and pressure? One longtime angler says the lake is loaded with 10–12 inch fish and isn’t ready to panic—while others argue slot limits and reduced daily limits are the only path back to jumbos.