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 27, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Illegal Fish Introductions Now Threatening Montana’s Most Prized Trout Waters
Montana wildlife officials warn illegal introductions of non-native predatory fish are putting the state’s best trout fisheries at serious risk.
Jul 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Flathead Lake: The Complete Fishing, Recreation, and Wildlife Guide for Montana Outdoorsmen
Flathead Lake is Montana’s crown jewel for fishing, wildlife, and outdoor recreation. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of every season.
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 7, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Fly Fishing the Bitterroot River: What Montana Anglers Need to Know Before They Go
FiccaFishing heads to the Bitterroot River in southwest Montana for trout on the fly. Here’s what anglers should know before they go.
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 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Kelly Island Fishing Access: An Underrated Clark Fork Spot Right in Missoula
Kelly Island FWP fishing access on the Clark Fork in Missoula offers brown trout, rainbows, and wildlife habitat right inside city limits.
Jun 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
How to Fish Montana Waters Free This Weekend — And Actually Catch Something
Montana's free fishing weekend is June 20-21. Here's your strategic guide to actually landing fish during the Father's Day license waiver event.
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 · 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.
May 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Duck, Duck, Goose’d: Two Montana Hunters Facing 5 Years for 223-Bird Hoard
Well, it turns out there’s a very thin line between “stocking the freezer” and “wildlife racketeering,” and two Montana hunters […]
May 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Have opinions on fishing? FWP wants your two cents.
Montana FWP is seeking public input on the 2027–2028 fishing regulations, featuring 41 proposals. Anglers can participate by attending a meeting on May 13, joining online sessions on May 26, or submitting comments via email or mail before the May 31 deadline. Share your insights to influence fishing rules.
Apr 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Albino Bass: What It Is and What To Do With It
That ghost-white bass isn't a mistake — it's a rare genetic freak. Here's the science behind it, its survival odds in Montana water, and whether you keep or release it.
Apr 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Why Your Bird Feeder Will Draw Grizzlies This Spring
Learn why bird feeders and salt licks attract hungry grizzly bears to your Montana property each spring and how to prevent dangerous wildlife conflicts.
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 · Angela Montana
Mystery Fish Kill: Black Crappie Die-Off Reported at Nelson Reservoir
Montana FWP is investigating a black crappie fish kill at Nelson Reservoir, prompted by reports of dead fish. Biologists are analyzing samples to determine the cause, with no current consumption advisories.
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.
Apr 3, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Wisconsin Hunter Lost 10 Years: What Montana Poaching Actually Costs
A Wisconsin man just lost 10 years of Montana hunting privileges. Here's exactly what triggers long-term bans — and what every hunter must know right now.
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 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Zebra Mussels 2026: Which Montana Waters Are at Risk and What Every Angler Needs to Know Before Launch Day
Zebra mussels threaten Montana's top fisheries in 2026. Here's which waters are at risk and what FWP's boat checkpoints mean for you this spring.
Mar 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Holter Lake Fishing Report 2026: What’s Biting Right Now After Ice-Out (And Where to Find Them)
Current Holter Lake fishing report: post ice-out walleye, perch & trout action, dam tailwater conditions, and exactly where fish are holding right now.
Mar 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Idaho Fish & Game Commissioner Faces 7 Hunting Charges: What Montana Hunters Need to Know
An Idaho Fish and Game commissioner faces 7 criminal hunting charges. Here's why Montana hunters should be paying close attention right now.
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.
Mar 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
The Big Timber Pond Project: Why Montana Anglers Are Diving Into This Particular Permit Application
Montana's FWP seeks public comments on the Big Timber Ranch Private Ponds License proposal, focusing on its environmental impact and water management before the March 30, 2026 deadline.
Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
CWD Is Spreading North from Wyoming: What Montana Mule Deer Hunters Must Know
Wyoming's CWD surge threatens Montana mule deer. With permit apps due April 1, here's what hunters must know about carcass rules and testing.
Mar 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Wyoming’s Elk Season Overhaul: 5 Things Montana Border Hunters Must Know
Wyoming's elk season changes affect Montana border hunters now. With MT draw deadlines April 1, here's what you need to know before submitting applications.
Mar 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Bears Emerging in February 2026: What Shed Hunters and Spring Outdoorsmen Must Know
Montana's mild 2026 winter has bears out weeks early. Here's what shed hunters, turkey scouts, and backcountry anglers need to know right now.
Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Turkey Season 2026: Public Land Scout and Prep Guide
Montana's spring turkey season opens April 15. Here's your one-month public land scouting and prep guide to punch your tag opening week.
Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Cracking Montana’s Elk Draw: What Every Non-Resident Needs to Know
Montana's elk draw is one of the most competitive in the West. Here's what non-residents need to know before applying this season.
Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Why Dumping Bait Fish Could Destroy Your Favorite Montana Lake
Illegal fish stocking is one of Montana's biggest fishery threats. Here's why dumping bait fish or "pet" fish can ruin a waterbody forever.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Duck Hunters Can Shape 2026-27 Waterfowl Seasons Right Now
Montana waterfowl hunters have a rare window to influence 2026-27 season dates and bag limits. Here's what's proposed and how to comment now.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
What Montana Mountain Lion Hunters Must Know Right Now
Montana mountain lion hunters face strict new regulations amid rising illegal harvests. Learn the essential rules, quota systems, and penalties to stay legal.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana’s Truck-Mounted Thermal Scanner Laws: What Hunters Risk This Spring
Montana hunters need to know where the legal lines are on vehicle-mounted thermal scanners before spring predator and bear seasons begin.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Caught a White or Golden Fish in Montana? Read This
Ghost-white bass, golden walleye, pink-eyed trout — these fish are real and showing up right now. Here's exactly what they are and what to do if you land one.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
California Wants Yellowstone Grizzlies: Why Montana’s Delisting Fight Just Got Urgent
Montana's growing grizzly population faces delisting battles while California considers reintroducing bears from Yellowstone after 100 years without them.
Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Hunter Ed 2026: Deadlines, Locations, and How to Register
Montana hunter ed classes are filling fast. Here's where to find 2026 spring/summer sessions before fall draw deadlines close the door.
Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Tagged Elk on Public Land? What Montana Hunters Must Know
Montana hunters need to know the law before shooting a tagged elk. Here's exactly what FWP says about escaped game farm elk.
Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Why Fly Fishing Film Tours Matter to Montana’s Rivers
Discover how fly fishing films have become essential to Montana's angling culture, community identity, and conservation efforts in mountain towns across Big Sky Country.