Jul 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Surplus drawing license opportunities randomized
Hunters who registered to be placed on the Surplus List can now check their status on MyFWP.
Jul 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Local Outrage Over Proposed Montana Rare-Earth Mine
Locals in Montana oppose US Critical Materials' plan for an 11.3-square-mile rare-earth mine at the West Fork Bitterroot River, a prime fishing and hunting area. Concerns include noise from heavy trucks, potential ecological disaster, and negative impacts on wildlife. Despite community opposition, the mining company is advancing its proposal.
Jul 16, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
BIOLOGISTS SET TO BEGIN GRIZZLY BEAR CAPTURES FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES ON PRIVATE LANDS IN MONTANA.
BOZEMAN – As part of ongoing efforts required under the Endangered Species Act to monitor the population of grizzly bears in […]
Jul 14, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Governor Gianforte, Secretary Burgum Announce Grizzly Bear Management Returns to the States
Joined by Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Idaho Governor Brad Little, and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, Governor Greg Gianforte today announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is publishing a proposed rule change that will give states more flexibility to manage grizzly bears in areas where the species has met or exceeded federal recovery benchmarks while preserving protections under the Endangered Species Act.
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Get Ready to Cast Your Lines! The 40th Annual Hell Creek Fishing Tournament is Here!
The 40th Annual Hell Creek Fishing Tournament will take place from July 25-26, 2026, at Hell Creek Recreation Area. Teams can enter for $200, competing for daily cash prizes and side pots for the largest catches. This event promises excitement and lasting memories for all fishing enthusiasts.
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Drone Misuse in Yellowstone National Park Angers Onlookers
An amateur drone operator upset Yellowstone National Park visitors and rangers by flying a drone low over a grizzly bear and her cubs. This act, illegal in the park to protect wildlife, sparked outrage among onlookers. A ranger quickly intervened, highlighting the seriousness of the rules and potential consequences.
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ditch the Fly Rod, Grab the Glass: Why July 4th is the Real Start of Deer Season
In Montana, the key to successful early-season archery hunting begins in July, according to Scott Bestul's feature on Bob Borowiak. By avoiding reliance on trail cameras and utilizing long-range spotting methods, hunters can better scout mature deer patterns. Borowiak emphasizes the importance of wide-ranging scouting rather than focusing on individual bucks, advising preparation to increase chances of success come fall.
Jul 13, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
When Trails Trend: UM Graduate Tracks Social Media Impact on Montana Landscapes
User-created paths often form organically over time, but in the modern digital world the resulting impacts are magnified with increased exposure. These “destination social trails” lead to places that have become popular through digital media, essentially “trending” outdoor destinations.
Jul 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP’s Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 7.13.26
Canyon Ferry offers excellent walleye fishing in Ponds 2 and 3, using bottom bouncers and various lure colors. Hauser is productive for walleye near the Eldorado Dredge Piles, with rainbow fishing thriving below Canyon Ferry Dam. Holter sees strong rainbow catches early, along with some walleye and northern pike near weed beds.
Jul 11, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
10 Teams Break 100 Pounds, One Team Wins by the Slimmest of Margins at the 2026 MT Walleye Gov Cup on Fort Peck!
Click here for final results of the 2026 MT Walleye Gov Cup!
Jul 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cooking with Kokanee Quinn: A Winning Walleye Tacos Recipe for Any Weekend
Kokanee Quinn seeks to elevate weekend meals beyond basic fish sticks with Jaime Teigen's Walleye Taco Bowls featuring Jalapeño Slaw. Inspired by Montana's Governor's Cup Walleye Tournament, this dish transforms the essence of street tacos into a manageable, flavorful bowl, perfect for celebrating any weekend victory, whether caught or bought.
Jul 10, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
153 Teams Battle on Day 1; 13 Teams Top 50 pounds MT Walleye Gov Cup
Click here for Day 1 Results!
Jul 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Muddy Truth About Floating the Yellowstone This Weekend
As a heatwave approaches, it's essential to stay safe while enjoying Montana's rivers. Despite their inviting appearance, dangers such as construction and changing conditions exist. Ensure you're equipped with proper gear and navigation skills to avoid accidents. Prioritize safety to turn your weekend into a fun story, not a cautionary tale.
Jul 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
First Day of 2026 Montana Walleye Governor’s Cup Fishing Tourney
This morning, 153 teams launched at Fort Peck Reservoir for the Governor's Cup, attracting 306 anglers, including 84 from various states like Kansas and Texas. The event has garnered significant attention, and official results will be available soon. A live radio broadcast will cover strategies and interviews tomorrow morning.
Jul 9, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
A tail of two suckers: Angler buddies set fish records for two species in Catostomidae family
Two Montana fishing buddies made history on Salmon Lake when Todd Smitham landed a record largescale sucker, while pal Jonathan Miller already holds the longnose sucker record.
Jul 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Grilled Jalapeño Poppers with Crawfish
Crawfish Jalapeño Poppers redefine game-day appetizers with jalapeños stuffed with a spicy mix of cream cheese, crawfish, and Monterey Jack, all wrapped in bacon and grilled. Served with a homemade buttermilk-green onion dip, these delicious bites combine flavors from Montana and the bayou, sure to impress any crowd.
Jul 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Great Grizzly Divide
If you are a grizzly bear looking for a stress-free life, your geopolitical geographic choices matter a whole lot more […]
Jul 8, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Yellowstone Bison, Public Lands, and What’s Actually at Stake for Montana Hunters in 2025
Montana’s bison conflict isn’t simple. Here’s what hunters and wildlife watchers need to know about Yellowstone migration, brucellosis, and public lands in 2025.
Jul 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fireworks Vandalism Leaves Billings Business with $13,000 Bill
A local business owner, Kris Vogele, faces significant losses after vandals destroyed 13 portable toilets using fireworks, incurring over $13,000 in damages. This vandalism threatens community support initiatives he provides. Tracking the offenders is difficult due to the locations and lack of surveillance, leaving Vogele to handle the financial burden alone.
Jul 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
No-Go Zone: Flathead River Under Construction
The Flathead River is currently closed to all boating activities near Sportsman’s Bridge due to construction work. A no-go zone extends 20 feet upstream and 500 feet downstream. This restriction is in place until further notice from FWP. Public comments are accepted until July 24, 2026. Stay safe and find alternate launching spots.
Jul 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Montana MLLB awards funds to decrease predation
HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Livestock Loss Board, an attached agency of the Montana Department of Livestock, is awarding $58,429 in […]
Jul 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Could This be a Sign of What We Will See in the Gov Cup Next Week?
In this week's Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale interviews Tayler Michaels, a videographer and hunting guide. Tayler shares his recent experience of catching large walleye at Fort Peck, highlighting his skills in both fishing and hunting. With the Montana Governor's Cup approaching, he encourages listeners to register and join the excitement.
Jul 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Holter Reservoir Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena MT 7.4.26
Fishing at the Gates remains strong, with successful catches reported using drop shots and live bait. Key areas include Willow Creek and Cottonwood, while Split Rock to the dam yields nice rainbows. Effective techniques involve trolling at varied speeds and targeting depths of 15 to 35 feet for trout.
Jul 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catch Trout Now: Yellowstone River Fishing Report
Jan Axtell's report highlights excellent fly fishing conditions in Montana. The Yellowstone River is flowing at 6,970 CFS, offering fantastic trout opportunities with stonefly nymphs in the morning and a variety of dry flies in the afternoon. The Paradise Valley Spring Creeks are also thriving, with a consistent PMD hatch.
Jul 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why the Farm Bill Update Matters for Wildlife and Farmers
Since 2018, Congress has delayed the Farm Bill, impacting crucial conservation programs like the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). However, the House has approved a version, and the Senate has introduced a substantial draft. Key proposals include increasing funding for CRP and government cost-sharing. A final agreement must be reached by year-end to avoid restarting the process.
Jul 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
New Management Rules for Mountain Lions in Southwest Montana
Montana’s Fish and Wildlife Commission just shook up the rules for the upcoming mountain lion hunting seasons, mainly focusing on […]
Jul 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
How an Old Video Cost One Hunter His Job and His Internet Privileges
A Wyoming man named Aron Snyder is currently playing damage control after a cringey, viral video resurfaced showing him getting […]
Jun 30, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Livestock Auction Summary: June 21–27, 2026 — Cow Market Surges as CME Futures Push Higher
Montana cow markets surged the week of June 21–27. Get full auction prices, CME futures analysis, and what it all means for your operation.
Jun 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Gov Cup: Win $20,000 and More! Register Now!
The Montana Gov Cup is approaching, promising thrilling action and competition among top anglers. With limited spots available, teams should secure their entry to compete for a grand prize of $20,000. Additional random weight payouts enhance the excitement. Don’t miss this opportunity to join the fun!
Jun 27, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Missoula Rural Fire District Conducts Technical Rescue Along the Blackfoot River
At approximately 12:04 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2026, the Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) was dispatched to a report of a person who had fallen from the rocks near Mile Marker 1 on Highway 200 and landed in the Blackfoot River.
Jun 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
MT Outdoor Podcast: Montana State Parks Record Breaking Visitation
This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale interviews Megan Buecking, Executive Director of the Montana State Parks Foundation. They discuss the Foundation's efforts to enhance state parks through fundraising and donations, the latest visitation records, and exciting developments, including a new state park on the horizon.
Jun 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Upper Salmon River Chinook Fishery Sees Strong Start
The Upper Salmon River Chinook fishery has opened, with anglers contributing 1,343 hours of effort in the first four days, harvesting 15 hatchery adults. Survival rates between dams have improved, with 1,342 fish past Lower Granite Dam. A fresh wave of fish is moving upstream, indicating optimal fishing conditions ahead.
Jun 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Most Montana Hunters Never Learned This Trigger Technique — Here’s Why It Matters
Montana Wild's new Shoot Better Series tackles the trigger mistake most hunters make. Fix it before elk season opens this fall.
Jun 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Madison River Outfitters Fishing Report, June 19, 2026
The report from Madison River Outfitters in West Yellowstone highlights improved fishing conditions with rising flows and warmer weather. Morning dry-dropper setups are effective, while afternoons see success with caddis dries. The Gallatin River is also fishing well. Fishing is advised in the Upper Madison over the Firehole due to temperature concerns.
Jun 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
MT Outdoor Podcast: What We Learned About the New Fish Consumption Warnings
This week's Montana Outdoor Podcast features host Downrigger Dale interviewing experts on recent fish consumption warnings from the FWP, DEQ, and health departments. The discussion focuses on PFAS pollutants found in fish and addresses public concerns, especially for vulnerable groups. Listeners can gain valuable insights and access expert contacts.
Jun 19, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Going-to-the-Sun Road Projected to Open Monday, June 22
The full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road will be open to bicyclists from June 18-21, before it is projected to open to motorized vehicles on Monday, June 22.
Jun 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Antelope Hunting in Eastern Montana — Skull Bound TV Captures Everything We Love About This Hunt
Skull Bound TV heads to eastern Montana for pronghorn. Here's what makes this hunt special — plus tags, tactics, and public land access tips for Montana hunters.
Jun 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Bitterroot River Anglers Just Got 4 New Riverside Campsites Near Stevensville
Montana FWP opened 4 new riverside campsites at John and Nancy Owen Fishing Access Site on the Bitterroot River near Stevensville on June 5th.
Jun 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Right on target: Trout Creek archer takes first in NASP Western Nationals
Trout Creek teen James Lacy, 16, claimed first place among 1,232 competitors at the 2026 NASP Western National Tournament, earning a spot at the championship in Daytona.
Jun 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri River Fishing Update by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 6.18.26
The fishing conditions are improving in Montana's rivers, especially for Father's Day weekend. Capital Sports announces their partnership, providing expert local insights. The Missouri River offers great walleye fishing with effective bait recommendations, while the Holter Dam stretch shows promise with hatches and effective nymph patterns. Enjoy the free fishing weekend!
Jun 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Fishing Montana’s Glacial Lakes in Late June: A Practical Guide to Hungry Horse, Swan, and Seeley
Late June is prime time for kokanee, westslope cutthroat, and perch on Hungry Horse Reservoir, Swan Lake, and Seeley Lake. Here's how to fish them effectiv