Mar 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

4 Fly Fishing Hacks From a Montana Guide That Make a Difference on the Water

Montana guide Tim Cammisa shares 4 practical fly fishing hacks for spring trout season on the Madison, Gallatin, and Yellowstone rivers.

Mar 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Pre-Runoff Nymphing: 5 Rivers Still Fishing Before Montana Blows Out

Flows are spiking fast across Western Montana. Here's which rivers still have fishable nymphing conditions this week — and exactly what to throw.

Mar 18, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan

Anglers help Fish and Game monitor trophy rainbow trout fishery on Lake Pend Oreille

Anglers on Lake Pend Oreille continue to play an important role in helping Idaho Fish and Game monitor the lake’s trophy rainbow trout fishery. Through the Lake Pend Oreille Angler Science Program, anglers voluntarily record details about their fishing trips and the trout they catch.

Mar 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Your First Yellowstone Cutthroat: Waters, Timing, and Flies Before Runoff

The pre-runoff window is closing fast in mid-March 2026. Here's exactly where, when, and how to catch your first Yellowstone cutthroat on the fly.

Mar 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Bitterroot Up 55%, Big Hole Surging: Nymph These Montana Rivers This Week

Flows are rising fast. Here's which Montana rivers still have fishable nymph water this week — and when each one blows out.

Mar 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Montana Outdoor Recreation Hit 5% of GDP — What Hunters and Anglers Need to Know

Montana's outdoor rec sector hit 5% of GDP in 2024 — here's why that $3.8B number matters for public land access and conservation funding right now.

Mar 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Montana’s $3.8B Outdoor Boom: What 32,000 New Jobs Mean for Your Hunting Season

Montana's $3.8B outdoor economy now ranks 3rd nationally, but explosive growth means more crowded trails, harder access, and tougher hunting seasons ahead.

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 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Stillwater Fly Fishing: Montana’s Best Move When Runoff Wins

Montana rivers are blowing out now. Here's how to pivot to stillwater fly fishing at Canyon Ferry, Holter, and Hauser this spring.

Mar 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Bitterroot Surges 55% as March Warmup Hits Montana Rivers: Where to Fish Now

Spring conditions arrive early with flows jumping 55% on some rivers. Here's where to fish this week as temperatures climb into the 50s.

Mar 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

How Weather Affects Fish Feeding Behavior

Weather significantly impacts fish feeding behavior, with factors like temperature and pressure influencing activity. Understanding these changes helps anglers adjust tactics for improved catch rates.

Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Hard Lessons Montana Outdoorsmen Learn Too Late Every Spring

Mid-March is Montana's most dangerous season. Here's what kills trips—and sometimes people—when anglers and hunters rush back outside too soon.

Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Smith River Permit 2026: The Complete Guide to Drawing, Planning, and Floating Montana’s Most Coveted Trip

Your complete guide to the Smith River permit 2026 lottery — deadlines, odds, standby tips, outfitter options, and insider float planning advice.

Mar 14, 2026 · Kamp Cook

Montana Fishing Report – March 14th

Mid-March in Montana means winter and spring are still arguing about who’s in charge. Ice fishing opportunities are fading quickly […]

Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Something Big Hit on the Bighorn: Wildhook Adventures Tangles With a Mystery Catch on One of Montana’s Most Legendary Rivers

The crew at Wildhook Adventures hooks into something massive on the Bighorn River near Fort Smith — one of Montana's top tailwater trout fisheries.

Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Why Dumping Bait Fish Could Destroy Your Favorite Montana Lake

Illegal fish stocking is one of Montana's biggest fishery threats. Here's why dumping bait fish or "pet" fish can ruin a waterbody forever.

Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Big Hole Surges 21% While Madison Holds Steady: Montana Rivers March 14, 2026

Southwest Montana rivers splitting—Madison and Gallatin stable and clear, but Big Hole and western drainages rising fast from snowmelt.

Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Where Montana’s Best March Fishing Is Happening Right Now

Montana's ice-out begins! Mid-March brings hot fishing action as winter loosens its grip. Late ice opportunities plus early spring river action await.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Oregon’s Fishing Ban Push: What Montana Anglers Must Know

Oregon voters may ban fishing entirely. Montana anglers need to understand this growing threat and how to protect their own rights before it crosses state lines.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 3.13.26

This past week, fishing on Peck was impossible due to warm weather and unsafe ice conditions, signaling the end of the season. Areas near the dam have opened up, hinting at potential boat usage soon. It's an opportune time to service ice fishing gear and prepare for next winter.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Montana Crappie Are Staging Now: Ice-Out Tactics That Fill Stringers

Montana crappie are moving shallow as ice retreats. Here's where to find them and how to catch limits right now before runoff muddies the rivers.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Caught a White or Golden Fish in Montana? Read This

Ghost-white bass, golden walleye, pink-eyed trout — these fish are real and showing up right now. Here's exactly what they are and what to do if you land one.

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).