Oct 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: NOTICE OF BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMU 420
BLACK BEAR MANAGEMENT UNIT: 420 By order of the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission, the above listed hunting district shall […]
Oct 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Before You Head Out, Head to Settings on Your Phone
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks advises hunters to refresh their mapping apps and clear cache before heading out for mule deer. Recent updates to BMA boundaries may not be reflected in old offline maps, causing issues with displays. They recommend checking the FWP Hunt Planner for accurate information.
Oct 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.26.26
Canyon Ferry boasts excellent rainbow fishing, especially in the Silos area. Shore anglers find success using worms. Hauser's fishing is good at the Causeway with crawlers or leech flies. Holter also offers great rainbow action with various baits. The Kokanee Salmon snagging season runs until October 31st at Helena Valley.
Oct 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Region 3: 60,000 Elk, One Record Bear Year
In the latest Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale discusses hunting insights from FWP Region 3 with experts Warren Hansen and Morgan Jacobsen. They reveal elk population estimates of 60,000 but caution about accessibility for hunters. The episode also addresses trends in mule deer and antelope numbers, bear conflicts, and various hunting opportunities.
Oct 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Salmon Spawn Wrap-Up 10.23.26
Fort Peck hatchery staff collected approximately 763,000 Chinook salmon eggs this fall, marking a decrease from previous years, despite larger average fish sizes. Female salmon averaged 20.2 pounds, producing more and larger eggs than in 2025. The hatchery will monitor the egg development until the fish are released in spring 2027.
Oct 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
CWD sampling easy, accessible and free in Region 7
CWD technicians are training under coordinator Tyler Nelson to collect lymph nodes from deer at FWP's Miles City headquarters and regional sampling stations in southeast Montana. With the hunting season opening this weekend, hunters can have their animals tested or submit samples themselves. More details are available on FWP's website.
Oct 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fleecer BMA Opens Doors One Final Time
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announces a final opportunity for hunters to sign up for Fleecer Cattle Co.'s Block Management Area (#143) this Friday, Oct. 23, from 12 to 2:30 p.m. Registration is required for access, as it's a Type-2 BMA. Check the FWP Block Management Guide for details.
Oct 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: NOTICE OF BIGHORN SHEEP CLOSURE HD 500
Hunting District 500 will be closed to all Bighorn Sheep hunting starting at half an hour after sunset on Thursday, October 22, 2026, as per the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission's order. For more information, refer to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Are You or Do You Know a High Schooler Who Has Opinions About MT Rivers?
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking one high school student for a two-year position on the Future Fisheries Citizen Review Panel, which influences approximately $1 million annually for fish habitat restoration projects. The student would vote on funding proposals and attend two meetings each year. Applications are open until filled.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing closure on section of upper Big Hole River lifted
A fishing closure on the upper Big Hole River, from Saginaw Bridge to the North Fork confluence, has been lifted due to improved flows. The closure, which began on August 12 to address low water levels, follows the Big Hole River Drought Management Plan. Spawning-related closures still apply in other areas.
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Water Turning Off at Brush Lake State Park, but the Camping Isn’t
Brush Lake State Park will discontinue potable water starting October 21, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Campers are advised to bring their own water, although dry camping will still be permitted. The park's gate will remain open for visitors throughout the season.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Fish and Wildlife Commission approves new fishing regulations during October meeting
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission approved new fishing regulations for 2027-2028, including updated limits and methods, and established a 99-year conservation easement on Hannah Ranch. They banned motorized watercraft on Mitchell Slough, reflecting public input and scientific assessment in the regulatory process. Additional topics like trout regulations and frog relocations were also addressed.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.19.26
As the boating season ends, fishing at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter Reservoirs is thriving. Walleye and rainbow trout are actively biting, with specific techniques yielding great results. The kokanee salmon snagging season continues through October, offering ample opportunities for anglers. Campgrounds are closed, and docks are removed for the year.
Oct 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Every Kayak Must Stop: Montana’s AIS Wardens Are Out Now
Montana wardens are stopping every kayak, canoe, and paddleboard at AIS check stations. Here’s what paddlers and anglers need to know right now.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Reminder: New HD 101-50 bull elk permit area
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announces a new bull elk permit for HD 101-50 (North Tobacco) for the 2026-2027 season, allowing only permit holders to hunt antlered elk in that area. General license holders may hunt antlered elk elsewhere in HD 101, excluding North Tobacco. Regulations are available for review.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Hemorrhagic Disease Causing Deer and Antelope Deaths in South-Central Montana
FWP reports a rise in dead and dying deer and antelope, particularly near rivers, due to hemorrhagic diseases like EHD and BT. These diseases, not harmful to humans, typically decline with colder weather. Hunters are advised not to harvest sick animals. FWP is monitoring the situation and public reporting is limited.
Oct 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Draw Your Tag, Not a Blank: FWP Expands Where You Can Buy Licenses
Montana's big game hunting season begins on October 24, with early youth deer hunt on October 15-16. Hunters can purchase licenses online, at FWP offices, or through local "License Ambassador" locations. Important details include card-only transactions at ambassadors, possible fees, and options for email or E-Tag licenses through the MyFWP app.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Sunday of antelope rifle opener cold and rainy in southeast MT, but hunters report improved antelope numbers
During the opening weekend of the antelope rifle season in southeast Montana, weather varied from sunny to cold and rainy. Harvest success for antelope hunters ranged from 53 to 61 percent across check stations, with adequate numbers reported. Upland bird hunters faced challenges due to poor bird numbers, impacting overall success rates.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Winter weather brings mixed hunter numbers and harvest for south-central Montana antelope opener
The general antelope hunting season in Montana opened on October 10, with check stations reporting varied attendance and success rates. Cold weather and snow impacted hunting, leading to fewer hunters at some stations. Upcoming youth deer hunts are scheduled for October 15-16, with regulations available online. The antelope season runs until November 8.
Oct 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP: Region 4 commissioner proposes amendment to 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a virtual meeting tomorrow at 8 a.m., adding two items to discuss proposed amendments to the 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations. A special closed meeting will follow to address litigation strategy. Public comments on the amendments will be accepted until 4 p.m. today.
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 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Woman injured in moose encounter near McAllister
MCALLISTER – A woman was injured by a moose earlier this month on private land near McAllister. On Oct. 3, […]
Oct 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP seeking early input on Gallatin WMA management plan
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are gathering early public input to develop a management plan for Gallatin Wildlife Management Area, covering 8,611 acres near Big Sky. The plan will focus on habitat conservation, infrastructure maintenance, and managing human use to protect wildlife, with feedback requested by November 6.
Oct 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
General antelope season opens October 10
The general antelope season in Montana opens on October 10 and runs until November 8. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks offers resources including an online hunting forecast, a Block Management Program for accessing private land, and an interactive Hunt Planner. Hunters are advised to verify regulations as they may change annually.
Oct 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.5.26
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report – October 5, 2026 Early October is one of the most productive times of year […]
Oct 4, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
The Warden Was Already Watching — These Montana Elk Hunters Didn’t Know It
Montana wardens used robotic elk decoys on opening morning to catch hunters violating brow-tine bull restrictions. The whole thing was caught on camera.
Oct 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Ramp-tastic Repair on the Bighorn
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announced the reopening of the boat ramp at Two Leggins Fishing Access Site on the Bighorn River after repairs. This popular site allows for fishing and float trips, restoring access for boaters. Users are encouraged to follow all posted regulations and boating safety practices.
Oct 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Tongue River Reservoir State Park update as of 9.28.26
As of October 1st, campsite electricity will be turned off for winter, except for Campers Point CP1-11, which has year-round electricity. Water access is also cut off, with the dump station remaining open year-round without water. Some restrooms will close, while boating caution is advised due to low lake capacity.
Oct 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Region 1 commissioner proposes amendments to 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations
Commissioner Ian Wargo proposed four amendments to the 2027-2028 Fishing Regulations ahead of the Oct. 14 Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting. Proposed changes include modifications to harvest limits and fishing methods for various lakes and rivers, with opportunities for public comment extending until Oct. 9.
Sep 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
55 Degrees and Feelin’ It: Fort Peck’s Egg Take Gets Underway
As Fort Peck's Chinook season transitions, the lower dam-end bays will offer snagging and archery opportunities starting October 1. Anglers and bow-fishers are encouraged to respect etiquette and avoid dock-side fish-gutting. Meanwhile, electrofishing crews are collecting Chinook for hatchery breeding, vital for maintaining the fish population.
Sep 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Block Management: Forty Years of Handshakes
Block Management, initiated in 1985 and expanded in 1996, fosters positive relationships between landowners, hunters, and resource managers in Montana. The Hunter Landowner Stewardship Program offers online training to promote ethical hunting on private land. Participants can enter a raffle for hunting gear and guided hunts, encouraging responsible practices.
Sep 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Wants Your Two Cents Before Halloween
This week, FWP opened public comment on eight projects, including controlled burns at Spotted Dog WMA, new amenities at Travelers' Rest, and bank repairs for Smith River boat camps. Additional topics include bass removal from Sacajawea Lagoon and a 99-year easement at Hannah Ranch. Deadlines range from Sept. 30 to Oct. 25.
Sep 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Five Hours, Two Nos, One Green Light
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission held a five-hour meeting where two citizen petitions were unanimously declined: one for 24-hour trap checks on public land and another mandating bear spray in grizzly areas. However, a proposal to draft a predator management policy passed, allowing further public review and comment.
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Meeting scheduled in Livingston to discuss removal of illegally introduced bass in Sacajawea Lagoon
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks plans to remove illegally introduced bass from Sacajawea Lagoon in Livingston and will hold a public meeting on October 1 at 5 p.m. to discuss the project. The meeting aims to inform the public about the initiative and long-term management plans for the fishery. Public comments are welcome until October 2.
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Breaking News: Local Gets Lost, Town Loses Its Mind
A yearling male mountain goat wandered into Bozeman, causing a stir by settling in a church parking lot. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff deemed it healthy but confused. After safely transporting it back to the Gallatin Range, locals appreciated the coordination that ensured its safe return without disturbance.
Sep 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Attention Montana Bear Hunters: Here’s the 4-1-1 on BMU 411
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced the closure of Black Bear Management Unit 411 to all black bear hunting, effective Thursday, September 24, 2026, starting 30 minutes after sunset. This decision aims to manage black bear populations within the designated area.
Sep 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Angling closure lifted on Section 5 of Big Hole River
Spawning closures for trout will commence on the Big Hole River from Dickie Bridge to the Jefferson River on October 1, while Section 5's angling closure has been lifted due to improved water flows. Section 1 remains closed. Anglers are encouraged to reduce fish stress by quickly netting, keeping fish in water, and reviving them before release.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Duck, Duck, Youth Hunt!
Montana’s Youth Waterfowl Weekend takes place on September 26–27, allowing hunters aged 15 and under to pursue waterfowl statewide. Licensed hunters aged 12–15 must be accompanied by a nonhunting adult, while apprentice hunters aged 10–15 need a mentor. All hunting regulations apply, including limited hours at Canyon Ferry WMA.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 9.21.26
Canyon Ferry has slow fishing with walleye and rainbows moving to shallow waters. Best spots include mid-reservoir and areas around Snaggy Bay. Hauser offers good rainbow catches below the dam, while Holter sees excellent trout fishing, though walleye activity is low. The Kokanee Salmon snagging season is currently open.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF BLACK BEAR CLOSURES BMUs 510 & 520 Today
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that hunting for all black bears in management units 510 and 520 will be prohibited starting one-half hour after sunset on September 21, 2026.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Baa-d News for Bighorns? Escaped Ewe Sparks Wildlife Warning
Montana wildlife officials are seeking public help to find a missing hybrid female Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, which escaped from a private facility. This 120-pound sheep, primarily white with a red ear tag, poses a disease threat to wild bighorn populations if encountered. Sightings should be reported to FWP.
Sep 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Chase the Hunt, Protect the Tradition
With all the excitement of what we’re chasing in the field this fall, FWP has a reminder worth carrying along […]
Sep 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hunters, Don’t Let Sept. 30 Sneak Past You
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reminds hunters that the deadline to buy bonus points for the license year is September 30. Bonus points enhance future drawing chances but can only be purchased if the same license or permit type wasn't applied for this year. Purchase via Montana FWP’s Online Licenses Service.
Sep 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Hunt for Balance: Montana Puts Nonresident Hunting Under the Microscope
Montana is examining the impact of nonresident hunters on local hunting experiences through the Montana Hunters First Act. New research indicates rising nonresident license sales, prompting a public survey to gather hunter perspectives. The findings will influence license allocations and future hunting regulations as FWP prepares its final report.
Sep 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMU 700 Archery Season
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has declared the BLACK BEAR MANAGEMENT UNIT: 700 closed to all black bear hunting, effective one-half hour after sunset on September 9, 2026, for the remainder of the archery season.
Sep 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Before the bow comes out, Region 1 elk hunters may want a quick rules refresher.
Northwest Montana elk hunters have a couple of rule changes to keep on the radar before grabbing the bow and […]
Sep 4, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Lowered Its Wolf Population Estimate and Raised Harvest Quotas — What Hunters Need to Know
Montana FWP reduced its wolf population estimate and raised harvest quotas. Here’s what the change means for hunters in wolf country this fall.
Sep 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Testing Reveals Toxins in Lake Elmo Water
Montana's Fish, Wildlife and Parks reported that water from Lake Elmo tested positive for harmful algal bloom toxins. Cooler weather may help mitigate the blooms. Residents are advised to avoid discolored water and keep children and pets away. Monitoring will continue, with reports forthcoming on the situation.
Sep 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Plenty of Elk, Fewer Antelope and One Dry Forecast in South Central MT’s Region 5
South-central Montana's wildlife faces challenges as hunting season approaches. While mule deer fawn recruitment improved, populations remain low. Elk herds are stable but mostly reside on private lands. White-tailed deer numbers increased slightly, while pronghorn declined, prompting reduced license quotas. Hunters must also participate in mandatory CWD testing at designated check stations.
Sep 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Final Hours for Bighorn Sheep Hunting in Montana HD 300
Hunting District 300 will close to bighorn sheep hunting at half an hour after sunset on September 3, 2026, as ordered by the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission. Hunters need to be aware of the district boundaries and timing, and can refer to the Montana FWP Bighorn Sheep Hunting Guide for regulations.