Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 10.16.26

This past week, fishing was fruitful for smallmouth and pike, with effective lures like hair jigs and hammered spoons. Lake trout remained deeper, requiring specific jigs for success. Salmon populations are rising in the bays, with over 300,000 eggs collected by Fish and Game, marking a positive trend.

Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

The 36-Pound Chinook That Doesn’t Count as a Record

This fall, a notable 36-pound king salmon was caught at Fort Peck, surpassing Montana's previous record of 32.65 pounds. While snagging is legal here, a debate persists about whether snagged fish should count in records like those caught on tackle. Currently, 361,000 eggs have been collected towards a goal of 800,000.

Oct 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 10.01.26

Pike fishing is excellent over shallow weed beds using spoons or topwater lures, with trolling crankbaits in deeper waters also yielding good catches. Smallmouth are active in depths of 20-30 feet using jigs and minnows. Lake trout are found at varying depths, and salmon are abundant in the bays as snagging season begins.

Sep 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 9.25.26

Fish activity is shifting with cooling water temperatures as fall approaches, creating varied fishing conditions. Pike are near shallow weeds, smallmouth prefer deep rocky points, lakers are less aggressive and moving frequently, while salmon are being caught in specific bays. Opportunities abound for those willing to adapt their strategies.

Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Snag the Salmon. Keep the Memories. Let Lakeridge Handle the Fish Cleaning!

Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop in Fort Peck, Montana, offers fish processing services starting October 1, ideal for salmon anglers. Visitors can enjoy fishing without the hassle of cleaning their catch. Additionally, the shop provides essential fishing gear and lodging, making it a convenient base for a memorable fishing experience.

Sep 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 9.4.26

Walleye and lake trout are being caught in deeper waters, 25-40 feet and 125-140 feet respectively, with jigging techniques proving effective. Deep-running lures, particularly the Salmo freedivers, work well for walleye. For pike, trolling crankbaits in white or silver has yielded better results, especially in the mornings.

Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.21.26

Walleye are being caught using bottom bouncers in 24-30 FOW with slow death hooks, especially favoring orange blades or white beads. Pike fishing is successful with crankbaits or spoons in 15-35 FOW, while salmon remain scarce but are being caught at 70-100 feet down with blues and greens, trolling at 2.1-2.2 MPH.

Aug 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Water Elevation Could Drop Almost 8 Feet by Feb 27

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers forecasts a decline in Fort Peck Reservoir's elevation from 2,223.9 feet on July 31 to approximately 2,216.0 feet by February 28, 2027. The report includes three scenarios, showing potential levels between 2,214.5 and 2,218.3 feet, influenced by runoff and weather conditions.

Aug 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

First Walleye Catch for 9-Year-Old at Fort Peck

Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop celebrated Tobias, a 9-year-old from Billings, for catching his first Walleye. Congratulations to him! Visit Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop at 5990 MT HWY 24 S, Fort Peck, MT, and follow them on Facebook for more updates and news.

Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Reeling in Memories: 8-Year-Old Conquers Fort Peck Through the Elements

Jake Schrock and his eight-year-old son, Michael, shared an unforgettable fishing trip at Fort Peck, Montana. Despite challenging conditions, Michael joyfully caught six lake trout and his first Chinook, including a remarkable 19-pound king salmon. This adventure showcased his potential as a passionate fisherman. Congratulations, Michael!

Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana

Sky Salmon: The Dream Team’s Accidental Catch

You have probably heard of the “Dream Team”, consisting of Bill Zahradka, the Salmon Slayer, and Gary Rueb, the Black […]

Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana

Meet the Dream Team of Pre-Tournament Salmon Fishing

The Salmon Tournament week has begun on Fort Peck, featuring top competitors Bill Zahradka, the Salmon Slayer, and Gary Rueb, the Black Jaw Fly Guy. They set an impressive standard on the first day by catching a huge 26-pound salmon, signaling a fierce competition ahead for other participants.

Jul 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 7.23.26

Walleye are being caught using bottom bouncers and crawlers in 10-20 feet, with jigs also effective near mayfly hatches. Pike are abundant in various locations, favoring spoons and crankbaits in 8-15 feet. Salmon are scattered; successful lures include Flashers and flies, trolled at 2.1-2.2 speed.

Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 7.16.26

Walleye are best caught with crawlers and slow death hooks in 15-25 feet, while bigger fish are deeper with jigs. For lake trout, target deep flats in 105-125 feet, though fish movement can be unpredictable. Northern pike are abundant, and salmon are best targeted with 8” flashers in 55-80 feet.

Jun 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Young Angler Jigs Deep for Fort Peck Lake Trout!

Cooper Green from Pablo showcased his fishing prowess on Fort Peck, catching a massive lake trout while fishing with Tim and Sarah Schauss. Having already caught walleye, bass, and pike, he now aims for his first Chinook salmon. Congratulations to Cooper for his impressive achievements and determination on the water!

Jun 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Walleye Governor’s Cup: A Tradition of Fishing Excellence

Every July, the Montana Walleye Governor’s Cup draws anglers to Fort Peck Lake for a blend of tradition, competition, and camaraderie. Known for its trophy walleyes, the event features random weight payouts and encourages a catch-and-release format to preserve the fishery. It fosters community spirit, making it a cherished summer tradition.

Jun 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fishing Fort Peck: Don Wilkins’ Winning Strategies

Fort Peck's high winds have churned the lake, with water temperatures between the mid-50s and low 60s. Despite the conditions, anglers can successfully catch walleye, pike, and lake trout. Key strategies include using bottom bouncers for walleye, casting spoons for pike, and jigs for lake trout at specified depths.

Jun 5, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Walleyes, Watch Out–Here Come the Wards!

The Wards, accompanied by their dog Benneli, faced challenging weather during their fishing trip in Montana but transformed the experience into cherished memories. With determination and teamwork, they navigated the elements and enjoyed their time on the water, ultimately proving that great company can enhance any outing despite adverse conditions.

May 22, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Lake: Montana’s Masterclass Fishery

Fort Peck Lake, known for its exceptional fishing, hosted the Crooked Creek Walleye Tournament where competitors caught over 100 pounds to win. Chris McFadden and Brem Phipps topped the leaderboard with 102.04 pounds. Interested anglers can register for the upcoming Montana Governor's Cup, featuring new events and diverse prizes, scheduled for July 2026.

May 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Trace’s Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic Bringing Community, Healing, and Outdoor Education to Fort Peck Area Youth

On May 31st, Fort Peck, MT, will host the Trace’s Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic, a free event honoring Trace Louis. Starting at 10:00 AM, children will learn fishing skills, safety, and receive supplies, while enjoying outdoor activities. Community support aims to establish this as an annual tradition for families.

May 14, 2026 · Angela Montana

Reel in the Fun: Trace’s Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic!

Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop is hosting Trace's Tacklebox Kids Fishing Clinic on May 31st at 10 AM, offering young anglers a day of outdoor fun and adventure. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required.

Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Feathered Midwives of Fort Peck: Montana’s Wildest Spring Tradition

Montana's walleye spawning process relies on human intervention due to fluctuating water levels, involving the use of barges and turkey feathers to ensure the survival of millions of eggs.