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.

Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bitterroot River Fishing Report (Feb 25, 2026): Late-Winter Flows, Best Nymphs, Midges & Streamer Tips

Grizzly Hackle’s boots-on-the-ground Bitterroot River report for Feb. 25, 2026: clear, stable flows; trout holding deep; nymphing still king with heavy stones, worms, and flashy perdigons. Expect afternoon midges on warmer days, selective dry-fly opportunities in flat water, and streamer eats on natural colors. Plus: spring-hatch countdown and a floaters-beware heads-up for downed trees.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bitterroot Lake Ice Report (Feb. 25, 2026): 5–5.5 Inches Most Areas Ahead of Margo’s March Madness Derby

Bitterroot Lake is fishable heading into Margo’s March Madness Fishing Derby (Feb. 28–March 1). As of Feb. 25, 2026: no snow on the ice, mostly clear visibility, and roughly 5–5.5 inches of ice in most areas (about 8 inches at the north-end county boat ramp). Still, watch for pressure ridges and cracks—and remember mandatory check-in at Hilltop Hitching Post before you fish.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Yellowstone River Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Cold Water, Sluggish Fish, Best Nymph & Streamer Tips + Fly List

Ice and slush have mostly melted, but the Yellowstone River is still very cold and fish are sluggish. Nymphing is the most effective approach right now; if you throw streamers, plan on a slow-motion strip or swing. Watch for spotty midge hatches depending on wind, and pay close attention to forecasts, wind, and potential ice shelves at ramps. Current flow: 1,260 CFS. Full fly pattern list included.

Feb 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

From Leather & Wood to Plano Plastics: The Evolution of the Tackle Box

Tackle boxes started as leather and wood in the late 1800s, shifted to mass-produced metal, and then boomed into post–World War II plastic icons from brands like Plano and UMCO. Here’s how a simple gear carrier evolved alongside American fishing culture.

Feb 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Missouri River Below Holter Dam Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Winter Bite, Flows & What’s Working

It’s a deep-freeze on the Missouri River below Holter Dam, but the fishing has stayed surprisingly solid for anglers willing to layer up and work for it. Here’s the latest from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, including a flow update and what’s been producing.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Tongue River Marina Ice Report (Feb. 20): Open Water Near Campers Point & Possible Hidden Weak Ice

Feb. 20 update: Open water is visible near Campers Point South (from the road) and reported off Campers Point North by the pond. Warm temps, wind, and snow cover may be creating hidden weak spots and thin-ice “bridges”—use extreme caution.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hell Creek Marina Ice Report (Feb. 22, 2026): SxS OK to Lucky Point, 4-Wheelers to Johnson; Main Lake Open

Hell Creek Marina’s Feb. 22, 2026 ice update says a cold snap improved conditions: SxS are reported good to Lucky Point, 4-wheelers from Lucky Point to Johnson, with questionable ice beyond Johnson. The main lake is reported open—watch for changing conditions.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens Up

Final winter fishing report for Helena-area reservoirs before updates resume in April. Ice is highly variable and can change fast, and Canyon Ferry’s south end is seeing expanding open water that’s undermining nearby ice—use extreme caution on any ice.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

NW Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 21, 2026): Cold Snap Builds Safe Ice, Bigger Lakes Finally Open

Last 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.

Feb 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Late-Winter Fly Fishing Report & Forecast 2026: Stable Flows, Clear Water, Active Trout on the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone & Missouri

Montana’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.

Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s Biting

From 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 lake trout and rainbow trout.

Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to Fish

After 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.

Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding Areas

With 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.

Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

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.

Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament Update

Macman’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 been productive past 200 feet—avoid Rocky Point due to gill netting.

Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open Water

Strong 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.

Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

Missouri River Fishing Forecast (February 2026): Midges, 36°F Water Temps, and Winter Streamer/Trout Spey Opportunities in Craig, MT

February 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 update from Headhunters Fly Shop, plus what to watch as we inch toward spring and the 2026 guide season.

Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice Access

Lakeridge 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.

Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley Reservoir

Montana 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.

Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Canyon Ferry Ice Update (Feb. 16): Open Water From the Dam to Confederate Gulch, But Hidden Ice Still Lingers

Anglers 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 launching or stepping out.

Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

February Fishing Report: Missouri River Strategies

The 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.

Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Thrill of Catching Largemouth Bass Under Ice

The 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.

Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Winter Fishing Challenges on the Jefferson River in Montana

Winter 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.

Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

Southwest Montana Fishing Report 2.13.26

This 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.

Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26

The 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.

Feb 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26

Despite 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.

Feb 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Current Fishing Conditions on the Lower Clark Fork River 2.10.26

The 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.

Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the Ice

What started as just another drop through the ice quickly turned into something much bigger for angler Don Wilkins. Almost […]