Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Beat the Heat and Dodge the Smoke: How to Fish the Stillwater River This Week

This week, fish the Stillwater River near Absarokee early for the best results. Key times include 6-9 AM for midge and caddis hatches, 9 AM-noon for terrestrial flies, followed by a midday break. Evening fishing resumes at dusk with hoppers and BWO hatches. Use various flies for success, but avoid the heat.

Aug 9, 2026 · Angela Montana

Madison River Outfitters Fishing Report 8.7.26

Recent fishing conditions in the Upper Madison are improving temporarily with cooler weather, providing dry fly opportunities due to Epeorus hatches. Small terrestrial patterns also work well. Nearby Hebgen Lake is favored for evening fishing. Anglers must heed Hoot Owl restrictions in Yellowstone, favoring cooler waters like the Gallatin for better fishing.

Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fishing Strategies for Hauser by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 8.6.26

Hauser Lake is providing excellent late-summer fishing for walleye, pike, and trout. Walleye are active in weed beds using drop shots and jigs, while pike have become aggressive. Trout are deeper, with black/gold lures effective. Limited kokanee are caught, but tactics for trout still ensure a successful outing.

Aug 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Lakes Fishing Report by Montana Angler 7.31.26

Montana Angler's July 31, 2026 report highlights the allure of sight-casting in stillwaters like Hebgen, Quake, and Ennis, despite rivers being popular. August's warm temperatures make lakes variable, yet morning and evening hatches provide thrilling gulper action. The report emphasizes the charm of fishing in lakes during summer's peak.

Aug 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Hot-Water Survival Guide: Where to Cast and What to Skip on the Madison Right Now

Montana's trout fishing faces challenges this summer due to high water temperatures and strict closures from 2 PM onwards due to heat. Optimal fishing times are early mornings and late evenings, especially in the Upper Madison and Gallatin Rivers. Anglers should use specific flies and prioritize ethical practices to protect fish.

Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana

Late July Fly Fishing Report: Timing the Hatch and Beating the Heat

In Big Sky Country, catching fish this summer requires knowledge of water conditions and timing. Despite recent thunderstorms affecting the Yellowstone River, early mornings present ideal fishing opportunities. The Paradise Valley Spring Creeks remain consistent, with specific hatches and techniques recommended for success. Understanding local conditions is critical for anglers.

Jul 29, 2026 · Angela Montana

Middle Fork Flathead River — MT Fishing Report 7.27.26

The Orvis report highlights the peak summer fishing conditions in the Middle Fork, with ideal water temperatures of 62°F for trout. Anglers are encouraged to simplify their setups by using single dry flies for effective fishing. Emphasizing the beauty of nature, the report advises staying updated on water temperature while enjoying the experience.

Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Flathead Area Fishing Report by Chancy’s Fish Camp 7.20.26

Chancy's Fish Camp Weekly Fishing Report highlights excellent fishing conditions at Flathead Lake, with notable bites for whitefish, lake trout, smallmouth bass, and salmon across various locations. Rivers are productive for pike and other species. Enthusiasts are encouraged to choose targets and utilize various effective fishing tactics and gear.

Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Your Guide to Walleye and Rainbow Fishing in Helena Area Reservoirs 7.20.26

Fishing is thriving in Helena area reservoirs, with walleye and rainbow trout biting actively. Canyon Ferry offers excellent walleye fishing, while Hauser sees shore anglers catching both walleye and rainbows. Holter is popular for rainbows, kokanee, and walleye. Grab your gear and enjoy the fishing action this season!

Jul 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Outdoor Podcast: A Unique Canoe Adventure Story

This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale interviews Bryon, a man paddling 2,450 miles from Three Forks, Montana, to St. Louis, Missouri, in a canoe. He is not raising money or awareness, but his journey fascinates listeners, as fellow fishermen support him without Bryon asking for anything.

Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Soup, Slime, and Solitude: The July Guide to the Jefferson River

The Jefferson River is currently low, warm, and filled with algae, prompting Hoot Owl restrictions that ban fishing from 2 PM to midnight. Ideal fishing conditions may return in September after irrigation ends, increasing fish activity. For now, anglers should seek cooler waters and wait for the river to recover.

Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hauser Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 7.16.26

Walleye are found around weed beds, favoring subtle motions with lures like ned rigs and small paddle tails. The stretch from York Bridge to the dam is currently best for trout, with effective trolling using cranks and weighted cowbells at varying speeds. Kokanee are present but not abundant in Hauser.

Jul 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Madison River Outfitters Fishing Report, 7.10.26

Overview & River Conditions According to Madison River Outfitters‘ latest fishing report, waters on the Madison River are holding steady, […]

Jul 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir Fishing Update from Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports 7.10.26

Anglers are successfully catching kokanee in the Regulating Reservoir, especially during morning and evening hours. The preferred method involves trolling wedding rings with scented corn, using colors like chartreuse, pink, or orange. Fish are being found at depths ranging from 10 to 35 feet, with a speed of 1.0 to 1.2 mph recommended.

Jul 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Canyon Ferry’s Current Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports 7.10.26

Canyon Ferry is currently thriving for walleye and trout fishing, as of July 10, 2026, with the lake 89.4% full and inflows at 4,900 cfs. Anglers should target depths around 10-15 feet using various color patterns. Techniques include bottom bouncing, trolling, and casting near shorelines for successful catches.

Jul 9, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Yellowstone is Chillin’ (But Get Out There Before It Grills)

The lower Yellowstone River is thriving as the Shield’s River recedes. Although the salmonfly and goldenstone hatch is nearly over, a variety of bugs are abundant, including caddis and drakes. Anglers should match flies to the hatching insects, as fishing conditions are favorable before the weekend heatwave arrives.

Jul 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Two-Pound Montana Mystery: A Tale of Big Fish and a Top-Secret Lake

On July 3, 2026, angler Bill Dreikosen caught a remarkable fish weighing approximately 2 pounds at an undisclosed lake in Montana. The secrecy surrounding the location enhances the story's allure. As an advocate for privacy, Bill embodies the spirit of fishing, where the thrill of the chase is often more valuable than the catch itself.

Jul 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

Successful Fishing Day for Kids in Lewistown

Young fishers Crew and Lincoln Bass enjoyed a successful day on the water, catching fish alongside their parents, Cody and Ashleigh, and friend Cameron Moline from Lewistown. The five-year-old Crew and six-year-old Lincoln are celebrated for their achievement, proudly displaying their catches with bright smiles and thumbs-up.

Jul 3, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Walleye and Lake Trout: Where Don Wilkins Found Them This Week

Walleye fishing is thriving in 15-25 feet of water, with slow death rigs and jigs proving effective. For lake trout, successful catches occur at depths of 95-105 feet using heavy laker jigs with paddletails. Adapting techniques enhances the bite during tougher conditions, ensuring consistent results for anglers.

Jul 1, 2026 · Angela Montana

Dodging Raindrops and Catching Monsters in Yellowstone National Park, July 1, 2026

Despite recent rains, fishing in Yellowstone is thriving. The Lamar River remains clear and inviting, with essential flies like PMDs and caddis hatching on the Firehole and Madison rivers. Anglers should prepare with attractor patterns and nymphs, ensuring they have their licenses before heading out to enjoy the waters.

Jun 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Land of the Giants Fishing Report by Living Water Guides, June 2026

The Missouri River's "Land of the Giants" offers prime fishing conditions, highlighted by a steady 3,000 CFS flow and 54°F water temperatures. June brings an influx of PMDs for dry fly fishing, while Callibaetis hatch in Holter Reservoirs. Jet boats provide access to this exclusive area, ensuring a unique fishing experience.

Jun 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bighorn River Fishing Report for Late June 2026: Prime Lanes & PMD Panache

From June 21 to 28, 2026, the Bighorn River is optimal for fishing, with flows at 1,520 CFS and water temperatures between 50–55°F, enhancing trout activity. Key times for fishing include mornings and afternoons for PMDs and caddis. Effective tactics involve targeting seams and adjusting indicators for depth. Weather changes may affect conditions.

Jun 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Rock Creek Fishing Conditions as of June 15: Tips for Wade-Fishing Success

Rock Creek's flow is dropping, making floating difficult, while wade-fishing season begins. The Salmonfly hatch is waning, but Golden Stones and other insects have become prominent. Fishermen should use a dry-dropper rig during late morning until sunset. Caution is advised due to obstructions in the creek. Kingfisher Fly Shop is available for supplies.

Jun 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Beaverhead and Big Hole River Fishing Report – June 2026

The Dillon Area Fishing Report highlights excellent fishing conditions on the Beaverhead River, with effective subsurface setups and an emerging Pale Morning Dun hatch. Meanwhile, the Big Hole River offers prime summer dry-fly fishing, enhanced by overcast weather that boosts bug activity and trout feeding.

May 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Spring Fishing by Don Wilkins, May 14, 2026

Don Wilkins reports that fluctuating water temperatures are prompting walleye and smallmouth bass to shift to shallower depths. Successful fishing techniques include jigs, plastics, and crankbaits. Salmon catches are promising.

Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Catch Cash Prizes at Montana’s 2026 Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament!

The 2026 Montana Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament invites anglers to register. Aiming for 175 teams, participants can win a $20,000 grand prize and enter Random Weight Pots for additional chances.

Apr 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Dry Fly Action Is Heating Up on the Missouri!

The Missouri River Ranch welcomes spring fishing with rising trout and hatches, as anglers prepare for Opening Week. Expect good catches with midges, BWOs, and various nymph patterns.

Apr 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 4.6.26

Rainbow fishing is thriving at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs, with successful methods including various flies, jigs, and worms. Anglers are also catching occasional walleye.

Apr 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Great Falls Area Fishing Report: April 3, 2026

Spring has arrived in Central Montana, enhancing fishing opportunities on the Missouri River as temperatures rise, attracting trout and pike into shallower waters.

Mar 30, 2026 · Angela Montana

Spring Fishing Conditions: Stillwater River Update

The Stillwater River is returning to cool spring conditions after a brief warm spell. Fishing improves gradually as water temperatures rise, with peak productivity typically after spring runoff.