Aug 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montanans Get First Dibs on Most Upland Game Birds This Season
Montana has implemented a new hunting regulation allowing resident bird hunters a 10-day head start over nonresidents. This change aims to ease congestion and give locals priority access to popular hunting areas. Nonresidents can still hunt mountain grouse immediately but must wait for other upland species. Always check the latest regulations.
Aug 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP sites in Stillwater County under Stage 1 fire restrictions
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks sites in Stillwater County are now under Stage I fire restrictions due to dry conditions. Fires and campfires are prohibited, smoking is limited to certain areas, and cooking is allowed only on propane stoves. These restrictions remain until further notice to enhance safety against wildfire threats.
Aug 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing restrictions added to more areas of lower Beaverhead River
DILLON – More areas of the lower Beaverhead River will be under daily fishing restrictions this week due to rising water […]
Jul 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Additional fishing restrictions and closures begin July 29 on several Montana rivers and creeks
Montana FWP expands hoot owl fishing restrictions starting July 29 on the Big Hole, Blackfoot, and other southwest and western Montana rivers due to rising water temperatures.
Jul 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Yellowstone Just Scored a New Float-In Fortress (And You’re Invited)
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has officially accepted the donation of Siskin Island, an 82-acre fishing access site on the upper Yellowstone River. Accessible only by boat, the site features diverse ecosystems and serves as a nursery for local trout. Regulations will be implemented for conservation and public access, with camping by reservation.
Jul 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP Sets Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at FWP Sites in Two Montana Counties
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is implementing Stage 1 fire restrictions in Wheatland and Richland counties. Outdoor enthusiasts are advised to verify campfire rules before starting any fires on FWP lands to ensure safety while enjoying recreational activities.
Jul 10, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Blackfoot River floating closure below Weigh Station Fishing Access begins July 15
The Blackfoot River near Milltown will be closed to floating from Weigh Station FAS to the I-90 bridge starting July 15 due to BNSF railway bridge construction.
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 3, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Biologists cautiously optimistic that late spring moisture will help boost mule deer numbers in north-central Montana
Montana FWP biologists are cautiously optimistic that late spring rainfall will improve mule deer numbers in north-central Montana after three years of drought-driven population declines.
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 · montanaoutdoor
Montana’s Free Fishing Weekend Is June 20-21: What You Need to Know
Montana's free fishing weekend runs June 20-21, letting everyone fish without a license. All other rules apply, plus AIS inspections and water safety guidelines remain in effect.
Jun 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Tips for a good float trip from Montana FWP
Montana FWP shares essential float trip etiquette tips for boaters heading out this season, covering boat ramp behavior, river sharing, and safety best practices.
Jun 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Summer adventures continue at Lone Pine State Park
Lone Pine State Park in Kalispell offers summer programs including Junior Ranger activities, archery, outdoor movies, and wildlife encounters for all ages through August.
Jun 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Invasive fish found in community ponds in Three Forks and Livingston
Invasive northern pike found in Three Forks Ponds near the Madison River, and bass discovered in Livingston's Sacajawea Lagoon, prompting concern from Montana FWP fisheries staff.
Jun 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Grizzly Buffet: Part of Point of Rocks FAS Temporarily Closed
A grizzly bear has taken over a section of the Point of Rocks Fishing Access Site in Montana, leading to a partial closure. Authorities advise avoiding the northern portion of the site and staying river right while floating past. The area will reopen once the bear leaves its meal.
May 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
All About Paddlefish: New Tagging Options, Paddlefish Season Reminders
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks introduces new tagging options for paddlefish, requiring immediate validation upon harvest. Anglers must comply with specific reporting guidelines and can use e-tags or paper tags for their catch.
Apr 27, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
FWP announces public comment opportunities
Montana FWP seeks public comment on Recreational Trails Program grant awards and other environmental assessments. Visit fwp.mt.gov/public-notices to review and submit input.
Apr 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Bear safety workshop happening in Bozeman on April 20
Montana FWP hosts a free bear safety workshop in Bozeman on April 20, featuring bear spray practice, grizzly and black bear mounts, and expert safety tips for bear country.
Apr 5, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
LMU 312 Closes to Female Mountain Lion Hunting April 6
LMU 312 closes to female mountain lion hunting at 7:30 p.m. on April 6, 2026, per Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission order. Check FWP's site for current quota status.
Mar 30, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Fresno Reservoir Public Meeting April 9: What Hi-Line Anglers Need to Know
Montana FWP hosts an April 9 open house in Havre to share updates on Fresno Reservoir fisheries management, 2025 netting results, and 2026 Milk River water forecasts.
Mar 30, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Reminder: Blackfoot-Clearwater Wildlife Management Area vehicle registration for shed hunters opens April 1
Shed antler hunters can register online April 1-19 to access the Blackfoot-Clearwater WMA by vehicle when it opens at noon May 15. Registration is free and unlimited.
Mar 26, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
FWP releases 2026–2030 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
Montana FWP releases its 2026–2030 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, focusing on trail access, inclusive recreation, facility maintenance, and conservation balance.
Mar 25, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Full Moon Sunset Hike at First Peoples Buffalo Jump — April 1
Join ranger Andy Keller for a full moon sunset hike at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park on April 1. The 3-mile guided hike begins at 7 p.m. Registration required; $4 fee.
Mar 25, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Upcoming Montana State Park Events
Montana State Parks hosts wolverine presentation March 28 and a full moon sunset hike April 1, both at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park near Great Falls.
Mar 25, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Blackfoot-Clearwater Wildlife Management Area vehicle registration for antler hunters opens April 1
Shed antler hunters heading to the Blackfoot-Clearwater WMA by vehicle can register online April 1–19 ahead of the May 15 noon season opener near Seeley Lake.
Mar 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Grey Bear Boat Ramp Closes March 30 for Construction—What Yellowstone Anglers Need to Know
Grey Bear Fishing Access Site on the Yellowstone River will see partial closures starting March 30 due to construction. Work wraps up April 30; campground stays open.
Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don’t Get Bitten by a Poaching Charge: Why Your Montana Mountain Lion Tag Can’t Be a “Post-Shot” Purchase
Central Montana game wardens saw a rise in illegally taken mountain lions in 2025, with three hunters cited for buying licenses after killing lions. Fines totaled $3,605.