Apr 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

MT Outdoor Podcast: Transforming Students Through Archery in Montana

This week's Montana Outdoor Podcast features host Downrigger Dale and Ryan Schmaltz discussing the impactful Archery in the Schools Program, highlighting its growth and transformative effects on students in Montana.

Apr 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bison Grazing Rights at Risk: A Land Use Controversy

The U.S. Department of the Interior's proposed policy favors cattle over bison on federal lands, leading to significant economic, tribal sovereignty, and ecological concerns amidst formal protests from various stakeholders.

Apr 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

Restoration Efforts Set to Begin at Salish Point: Protecting Flathead Lake’s Shoreline

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Polson City will begin the Salish Point Shoreline Restoration Project on April 13 to combat erosion and preserve local ecology while maintaining public access.

Apr 5, 2026 · Angela Montana

Germany’s Wolf Management: Lessons from Montana’s Conservation History

While the urban sprawl of Hamburg seems a world away from the peaks of the American West, a recent incident […]

Mar 31, 2026 · Angela Montana

Game wardens seek information on blow-darted ducks in Billings

BILLINGS – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are seeking the public’s help in gathering information on a series of potentially related instances of ducks shot […]

Mar 28, 2026 · Angela Montana

MT Outdoor Podcast: Choosing Between Diesel and Gasoline Engines

In this episode of the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale interviews Josh Parrow, a skilled Diesel Technician, sharing insights on diesel engine choices, maintenance tips, and historical context.

Mar 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Secrets of Night Fishing: Gear and Timing for Success

Night fishing in Montana offers a refreshing experience amidst tranquil surroundings. Targeting trophy trout with specific techniques, the activity emphasizes stealth, ethical practices, and optimal timing for a unique outdoor adventure.

Mar 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Spring Creek Fishing Tips for Paradise Valley

Yellowstone Angler recommends using a Livingston Rod Co 8'9" 3-weight for fishing Spring Creeks, advising stealthy approaches and specific tactics as fish spawn and Baetis hatch begins.

Mar 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Opportunity for Anglers: Shape Montana’s Fishery Future

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks seeks a "Licensed Angler" for its Citizen Review Panel to assist in restoring wild fish habitats. Meetings happen in June and December, with applications encouraged.

Mar 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Week 2 Update on the 2026 Spring Mack Days Fishing Frenzy on Flathead Lake

The 2026 Spring Mack Days fishing tournament is underway, with anglers catching over 5,100 lake trout. The competition runs until May 9th, featuring a chance to win tagged fish worth thousands.

Mar 22, 2026 · Angela Montana

Early Spring Fishing Report: Navigating Flathead Valley’s River Flows

In March, the Flathead Valley's unpredictable weather has led to unusual fishing conditions. Despite challenges, trout fishing is thriving, with guides recommending slow, deep techniques and bright flies for success.

Mar 22, 2026 · Angela Montana

Kickoff to Spring at Hell Creek Marina

As of March 22, 2026, ice has melted and Hell Creek Marina is open, heralding an exciting season ahead at Fort Peck, especially with favorable weather conditions.

Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Lake Access Restored: Hell Creek Marina’s Latest Update

Between a sudden 80° fever and a little help from the wind, Mother Nature just gave the ice an eviction […]

Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hebgen Lake Ice Fishing 3.20.26

Garrett Ostler is relishing the lovely weather and ice conditions at Hebgen Lake, as shared in his video.

Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Goldfish, Pike, and the “Wrong” Kind of Romance: Montana’s 2026 Underwater Eviction Notice

If you thought your dating life was complicated, try being a Westslope Cutthroat Trout in the Big Hole Drainage. Between […]

Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana

Beefing Up the Defense: Why Montana Ranchers Are Heading to Court Over I-194

Montana's MSGA opposes ballot initiative I-194, which they argue restricts free speech by banning certain entities from influencing political matters. A coalition seeks to block the initiative, protecting business rights.

Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bear’s Dinner Party: Why Your Favorite Bozeman Trails are Temporarily Off-Limits

Due to a wildlife attractant's presence, the Bozeman Ranger District has closed popular hiking trails around Big Sky from March 18 to April 15, 2026, ensuring public safety and preventing bear encounters.

Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana

The “Anti-Winter” Strategy: Why March and April on the Kootenai are Montana’s Best Kept Secret

Spring fishing in Montana is prime between mid-March and late April, featuring slow trout behavior and a focus on nymphing. Anglers should utilize specific streamers and dry flies during warmer afternoons.

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

From the Big Sky to Big Water: Why Montana Sledders Should Take Note of the Michigan “Ice-Capades”

A snowmobiler in Michigan floated on ice near Mackinac Island during a storm, highlighting dangers of unstable ice. Safety gear and caution are essential for snowmobilers near water and ice.

Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana’s Wolf Season: That’s a Wrap for 2025-2026

The Montana wolf season ended on March 15, with 243 wolves harvested out of a quota of 452. Region 1 led with 98 harvests, while Regions 6 and 7 reported none. Future seasons are scheduled, but dates may change due to federal court orders. Data serves vital conservation purposes. Stay informed for updates.

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

The Great Madison Range Meet-Up: Giving Bighorn Sheep a Lift

In the world of Montana real estate, the Madison Range has a bit of a “middle child” problem. To the […]

Mar 17, 2026 · Angela Montana

Anglers Brave Wind and Snow for First Week of 2026 Spring Mack Days

The first week of the 2026 Spring Mack Days saw nearly 1,900 lake trout caught despite harsh winter conditions. The event supports fish conservation, enhancing native trout populations in Flathead Lake.

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Deer & Elk Permit Application Deadline, April 1

If deer or elk hunting is on your Montana to-do list this year, remember that the deadline to apply for […]

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Celebrate Fishing Conservation at the Wolf Point Walleyes Unlimited Annual Banquet

Join the 40th Annual Walleyes Unlimited Banquet on March 21 in Wolf Point, Montana, featuring dinner, raffles, and prizes, while supporting fish conservation and outdoor recreation efforts.

Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana

Special Youth Turkey Hunt Opportunity in Flathead Valley, Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting a free youth turkey hunt on May 2-3, 2026, for ages 10-15, including safety training and mentorship. Applications are due soon.

Mar 15, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don’t Miss the April 2026 MTA Banquet – Tickets Available Now!

The Montana Trappers Association Banquet on April 11, 2026, at Anaconda Elks Lodge features good food, entertainment, and community spirit, supporting trapping heritage with auctions and contests. Tickets available now.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 3.13.26

This past week, fishing on Peck was impossible due to warm weather and unsafe ice conditions, signaling the end of the season. Areas near the dam have opened up, hinting at potential boat usage soon. It's an opportune time to service ice fishing gear and prepare for next winter.

Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana

Paddlefish Permit Deadline Approaches: Apply by April 1

Apply for paddlefish permits by April 1 to participate in the unique season. Applications are easy online or in-person at local FWP offices or authorized retailers. Don't miss out!

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Understanding Wildlife Management Beyond AI

Hyper-real AI wildlife clips can feel more convincing than reality—until you notice the cartoon voiceovers and emotional storylines. But wolves and grizzlies in places like Montana aren’t characters in a feel-good narrative. This piece breaks down how AI content can distort public perception and why real-world wildlife management is a complicated balancing act worth understanding.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bighorn River Fishing Report (St. Xavier) — March 11, 2026: Windy Week, Strong Nymphing on Sowbugs & Scuds, Plus Streamers

The Bighorn near St. Xavier is setting up for a productive week despite strong winds. Expect slightly warmer temps than Bozeman, consistent trout feeding on sowbugs and scuds, and surprisingly solid streamer action. Here’s the March 11, 2026 update from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, plus the nymph pairs and streamer patterns producing now.

Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hipcamp’s 2025 Best in North Dakota RV Park: Basecamp for Theodore Roosevelt NP, Makoshika & the Enchanted Highway

American RV Park is a veteran-owned, no-frills RV stop near Dickinson—about 25 minutes from Theodore Roosevelt National Park and within easy reach of Makoshika State Park, the Enchanted Highway, off-road trails, golf, fishing, and local events. It’s also the only North Dakota RV park that advertises a permanent on-site Certified RV Technician & Inspector for extra peace of mind while you explore.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Hunter Education Classes (2026): Spring & Summer Dates in Central and Eastern MT + How to Register

Ready to hunt in Montana? Montana FWP is listing in-person hunter education classes and online-student field days across central and eastern Montana this spring and summer. Seats can fill fast, and students must be registered before class begins—here’s how to sign up plus the full schedule of dates and towns.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP: LMU 422 Will Close to Male Mountain Lion Hunting After Sunset on March 12, 2026

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has ordered LMU 422 closed to all hunting of male mountain lions one-half hour after sunset on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Check the official quota status page for the latest details.

Mar 11, 2026 · Angela Montana

Jefferson River Fishing Report (Early Spring 2026): Where to Find Trout, Best Nymphs, and the Afternoon Bite

The Jefferson River is fishing tough but doable in early spring. Slow down, get deep in softer inside water, and plan around late morning through mid-afternoon. Here’s the latest Jefferson River report from Fins and Feathers (2/5 on March 9, 2026), including the nymph and streamer patterns producing now.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bozeman Early Spring Trout Fishing Report (March 9, 2026): Best Techniques, Flies, and Peak Time Windows

Early spring trout fishing near Bozeman is improving week by week as rivers transition out of winter mode. Here’s what’s working right now—best time of day, where trout are holding, and the nymph and streamer setups producing on the Gallatin, Madison (upper/lower), and Yellowstone as of March 9, 2026 (5/5).

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Missouri River Fishing in March 2026: Unpredictable Weather, Midge Hatches, and Prime Streamer Days

March on Montana’s Missouri River is rarely predictable—and 2026 could be even more of a wildcard with low snowpack and warming water. Here’s what to expect for midges, nymphing, streamer fishing, swinging flies, and the fickle spring weather that can make (or break) your day on the Mo.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP Upper Missouri River Fisheries Meeting (March 16, Helena): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter Updates

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hosts its annual Upper Missouri River Reservoir Fisheries Management Plan update on March 16 at 6 p.m. in Helena. Hear population trends and management updates for Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter, and nearby Missouri River sections—and learn what keeps these popular fisheries producing year after year.

Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana

Free Bozeman Workshop Teaches Dog Owners How to Release a Pet From a Trap (March 26)

Montana K9 Safety is hosting a free trap release workshop for Bozeman-area dog owners on March 26. Expect hands-on demos with multiple trap types, a look at current trapping regulations, and simple tools that can help you safely free a dog if an accident happens on the trail.

Mar 9, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck King Salmon Derby: Registration Opens in 6 Days (150-Boat Limit) — Get Your Team Ready

Online registration for the 1st Annual Fort Peck Montana Tournament of Kings opens in 6 days, and with a 150-boat limit, spots could go fast. Here’s what to do now to be ready when the link drops—plus how to stay in the loop.

Mar 9, 2026 · Angela Montana

University of Montana Launches New Fisheries Science Chair Backed by $5 Million to Protect Cold-Water Trout

The University of Montana has launched a new Chair of Fisheries Science with $5 million from 56 donors. Yoichiro Kanno will lead research on how warming temperatures and shrinking snowpack are reshaping trout habitat—and what restoration, student training, and science can do to help Montana’s iconic rivers endure.

Mar 8, 2026 · Angela Montana

Stillwater River Fishing Report: Cold Water Now, Better Trout Action Ahead This Spring (Montana, March 6, 2026)

Montana’s Stillwater River is still running cold despite a warmer-than-average winter, keeping fishing from fully turning on yet. Low flows have trout holding in deeper slots, where patient nymphing has produced action. Here’s what Montana Angler reported on March 6, 2026—and what to expect as spring temperatures rise.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

Seeley Lake Ice Is Pulling Away From Shore: Anglers Report Deteriorating Conditions on the North End

Local anglers say ice conditions on the north end of Seeley Lake are deteriorating as warmer weather moves in, with open water growing along the shoreline. If you’re considering going out, use caution—ice can change fast when it starts separating from shore.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

Kids Ice Fishing at Hebgen Lake: Laughs, Winter Magic & Kids-N-Snow in West Yellowstone (Video)

A joyful kids ice fishing moment at Hebgen Lake captures laughter, excitement, and winter magic with Kids-N-Snow in West Yellowstone—shared by Garrett Ostler on Saturday, March 7. Watch the video and get inspired for your next family day on the ice.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

NW Montana Fishing Report (March 5, 2026): Echo Open, Flathead Lake Laker Bite, Koocanusa Rainbows — Chancy’s Fish Camp

Northwest Montana waters are opening up fast. Chancy’s Fish Camp reports Echo Lake is fully open with early smallmouth showing, McGregor is producing lake trout and rainbows, Flathead Lake is fishing well for lakers, and Koocanusa is kicking out rainbows and bull trout. Plus: which Flathead River sloughs are open, a Thompson River update, and an ice-safety reminder.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

Canyon Ferry Lake Ice Is Gone: Boat Ramps Open and Spring Fishing Season Is Underway

Winter finally let go at Canyon Ferry Lake: the ice is officially gone, boats are already launching, and the ramps are open for spring anglers ready to get back on open water.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

Oil Sheen Prompts Rapid Response in Billings Waterways — Officials Say Yellowstone River Not Impacted

City crews and the Billings Fire Department moved quickly Thursday after reports of an oily sheen in two Billings waterways. Absorbent booms were deployed to keep the slick from spreading as testing continues to pinpoint the source. Officials say the public is not in danger and the oil did not reach the Yellowstone River or the city’s water intake.

Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana

From 8th-Grade Dream to Elite Cattle Ranch: Karl Tyler’s Blueprint for Building a World-Class Operation (Montana Outdoor Podcast )

Karl Tyler wanted a cattle ranch since 8th grade—but didn’t have money for land or cattle. On the Montana Outdoor Podcast, he tells Downrigger Dale how hard work and long-term focus took him from washing cars at a dealership to owning multiple dealerships and, ultimately, building a top-tier cattle operation that’s turning heads across the industry.

Mar 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

New Automated Gate Added at Carter’s Bridge Fishing Access Site on the Yellowstone River: Hours & Rules

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks installed an automated gate at Carter’s Bridge Fishing Access Site near Livingston to curb overnight use, vandalism, and after-hours issues. Daytime access remains the same: open daily 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; overnight camping is prohibited.

Mar 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

From Car Wash Bay to Ranch Dream: Karl Tyler’s Gritty Journey (Montana Outdoor Podcast Sneak Peek)

A ranching dream that started back in 8th grade. A grind through college struggles and long days at a dealership wash rack. In this Montana Outdoor Podcast sneak peek, Downrigger Dale previews entrepreneur Karl Tyler’s winding path—and teases what might be some of the best cattle in the world. Full episode drops tomorrow morning.