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.

Mar 6, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Ice Fishing Report (March 6, 2026): Rock Creek Lakers in 65–80 Feet as Warm Front Threatens Safe Ice

A short cold snap tightened the ice on Rock Creek just enough for Don Wilkins to get back out on Fort Peck and pick up several lake trout on jigs and plastics in 65–80 feet—while warning that a warm front could quickly end safe ice. Here’s the latest report, plus safety reminders before you go.

Mar 5, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Crews Return to the Cabinet Mountains to Study Mountain Lions—Building on 25+ Years of Research

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists are back in the Cabinet Mountains near Libby, using hounds to locate mountain lions and collect biological samples. The work adds to more than 25 years of research, helping compare today’s lions with earlier data and informing population estimates, harvest tracking, and long-term management.

Mar 5, 2026 · Angela Montana

Best Nymph Rigs for the Gallatin River (Plus Top Flies & Where to Fish at 301 CFS)

With the Gallatin running at 301 CFS at Gallatin Gateway, The River’s Edge reports fishing has been phenomenal—and even a colder stretch shouldn’t slow the bite much. Most consistent action is still subsurface: nymph rigs through deeper seams and buckets, or covering water with streamers. Here’s what’s working, plus section-by-section tips for fishing the Gallatin from Yellowstone to the Valley.

Mar 5, 2026 · Angela Montana

Tongue River Reservoir Ice Update: Open Water at Ramps, But Boating Still Limited (FWP Report)

Spring breakup is underway at Tongue River Reservoir, with open water at both ramps and a few boats already out. But ice still blocks key stretches near the dam, between Sand Point and Pee Wee north, and at the far south end—limiting where you can safely travel right now. Here’s the latest access and ice update based on a recent FWP post.

Mar 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

10-Year-Old Lands Vermont State-Record Fish and $26K Prize — Why Fishing Derbies Keep Hooking Anglers

A 10-year-old angler landed a 28.5-pound freshwater drum during the Lake Champlain International Father’s Day Derby and eventually earned Vermont state-record certification — plus about $26,000 in prize money. From Lake Champlain to Montana’s seasonal contests, the appeal is the same: one unexpected bite can change everything.

Mar 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Lakeside Jobs: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Hiring Full-Time & Part-Time Staff

Love early mornings on the water at Fort Peck? Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop is hiring dependable, hardworking team members for full-time and part-time roles including store clerks, housekeeping, groundskeeping, and bait care. Call 406-526-3597 to apply.

Mar 4, 2026 · Angela Montana

Jim Rettig Memorial Scholarship Returns: WUM Members Can Apply for At Least Two $1,500 Awards (Deadline April 1)

Walleyes Unlimited of Montana’s Jim Rettig Memorial Scholarship is back, offering at least two $1,500 scholarships each year for WUM members and their dependent children heading to college this fall. Applications are due April 1, and winners will be notified by letter no later than July 1.

Mar 3, 2026 · Angela Montana

4 CSKT Natural Resources Leaders Earn Major Montana Conservation Awards for Fisheries & Wildlife Work

Four Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Natural Resources staff members received major statewide awards for decades of fisheries and wildlife conservation leadership — including bull trout recovery, Jocko River restoration, Flathead Lake native fish work, and habitat restoration across the Flathead Reservation.

Mar 3, 2026 · Angela Montana

Kootenai River Fishing Report (Montana) Feb. 28, 2026: 4,000 CFS Flows, Cold Water Nymphing & Streamer Tips

Low, steady flows out of Libby Dam (4,000 cfs) and mild weather have the Kootenai River fishing very doable heading into early March. With water temps around 40°F, expect limited dry-fly action—but consistent nymphing and slow, deep streamer presentations can still turn up quality fish, especially in softer 5+ foot holding water.

Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP’s Spring Electrofishing on 7 Rivers: What Anglers Need to Know About Tagged Trout (and Rewards)

FWP crews are floating seven Montana rivers over the next several weeks for their annual electrofishing “science tour,” collecting trout data and continuing tagging efforts. If you catch a tagged trout on the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Ruby, or Madison, you can help the research—clip the tag, report it online, and you may even qualify for prizes or cash depending on the tag color.

Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Livingston, MT Fishing Report (Feb 15–Mid-March): Prime Afternoons, Slow Water, and a Growing Shot at Big Pre-Spawn Rainbows

Winter still has a say, but the Livingston-area bite improves steadily through mid-March—especially for bigger pre-spawn rainbows. Focus on afternoons (possibly late morning by March 1), fish low-and-slow in deep walking-pace pools, and watch for brief midge or winter BWO activity on warm, calm days. Here’s the latest river-by-river guidance from Yellowstone Country Fly Fishing.

Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

2026 Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake: Dates, Prizes, Rules, Fish Pickup Sites & Conservation Goals

Mack Days returns to Flathead Lake March 12–May 9, 2026, giving anglers nine weeks to target non-native lake trout while supporting conservation of native bull trout and westslope cutthroat. Get the key dates, prize details, entry rules, fish drop-off locations, and important release and fish ID requirements.

Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Wolf Harvest Update: 241 Taken So Far (Out of 452) — Regional Breakdown, Open Units, and Season Dates

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reports 241 wolves harvested statewide so far this season out of a 452 quota (excluding WMUs 313 and 316). Here’s the regional breakdown, which units are open/closed, season dates, and why checking FWP’s live counter matters before you head out.

Mar 1, 2026 · Angela Montana

Tongue River Marina Ice Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Open Water Growing Near Ramp, Marina Bay Still Iced

Tongue River Marina reports 15–20 feet of open water off the ramp, with Marina Bay still mostly iced over but improving. More open water is showing from Rattlesnake south toward the mine as daytime temps warm—boat fishing could be just weeks away.

Mar 1, 2026 · Angela Montana

Makoshika State Park: Montana’s Largest State Park (Badlands Hikes, Dinosaurs & Stargazing in Glendive)

Makoshika State Park near Glendive is Montana’s largest state park—about 11,538 acres of rugged badlands, hoodoos, and wide-open sky. Built on the fossil-rich Hell Creek Formation, it’s a must for dinosaur fans and anyone looking for hiking, a scenic drive, camping, a visitor center, and even disc golf in the badlands.

Feb 28, 2026 · Angela Montana

Whitefish & Kalispell Fishing Report (Feb. 27, 2026): Whitefish Lake Ice Holds Strong, Flathead River Bites on Sunny Days

Winter isn’t letting go yet—Whitefish Lake remains locked up with lake trout cruising deep structure, while the Flathead River rewards anglers who time it right. Here’s what’s producing now, from white tubes tipped with cutbait on the ice to nymphs and streamers in late-winter river water.

Feb 27, 2026 · Angela Montana

Fort Peck Rock Creek Ice Update: Rapid Deterioration After Warm, Windy Days—Use Extreme Caution

Rock Creek ice briefly improved with last week’s colder weather, but recent warmth and wind have quickly degraded conditions. With no real cold ahead, the ice season is wrapping up—use extreme caution even on foot, as shifting ice and soft shorelines are increasing risk.

Feb 27, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana FWP’s New License Ambassador Program: What It Is, Why It’s Replacing the Old System, and What Changes March 1

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is rolling out a new License Ambassador Program ahead of March 1, replacing the longtime License Provider Program due to aging technology. Here’s what we know so far from the Montana Outdoor Podcast—and what to listen for in the full episode.

Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bitterroot River Fishing Report (Feb 25, 2026): Late-Winter Flows, Best Nymphs, Midges & Streamer Tips

Grizzly Hackle’s boots-on-the-ground Bitterroot River report for Feb. 25, 2026: clear, stable flows; trout holding deep; nymphing still king with heavy stones, worms, and flashy perdigons. Expect afternoon midges on warmer days, selective dry-fly opportunities in flat water, and streamer eats on natural colors. Plus: spring-hatch countdown and a floaters-beware heads-up for downed trees.

Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Big Cat Closures: Region 6 Bobcat Season Ends Feb. 28; LMU 280 Male Mountain Lion Closes Feb. 27, 2026

Montana FWP reports two quota-driven big cat closures: bobcat hunting and trapping in Region 6 ends at midnight Saturday, Feb. 28, and LMU 280 closes to the hunting of male mountain lions one-half hour after sunset Friday, Feb. 27, 2026. Here’s what to know and where to check official quota updates before you head out.

Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana

2026 Fort Peck Tournament of Kings (Montana): Dates, Entry Fee, $10K Daily Payouts + Random Weight Salmon Pots

Montana’s 1st Annual Fort Peck Tournament of Kings hits July 31–Aug. 1, 2026 with a 150-boat cap, $400 team entry, top-four daily payouts, and a twist: Random Salmon Weight Pots that could pay $15,000 per day. Registration opens online March 15, 2026.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Bitterroot Lake Ice Report (Feb. 25, 2026): 5–5.5 Inches Most Areas Ahead of Margo’s March Madness Derby

Bitterroot Lake is fishable heading into Margo’s March Madness Fishing Derby (Feb. 28–March 1). As of Feb. 25, 2026: no snow on the ice, mostly clear visibility, and roughly 5–5.5 inches of ice in most areas (about 8 inches at the north-end county boat ramp). Still, watch for pressure ridges and cracks—and remember mandatory check-in at Hilltop Hitching Post before you fish.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Elk Don’t Follow a Script—How FWP Uses GPS Tracklogs to Survey Smarter

Montana wildlife surveys have evolved from paper maps and pencils to handheld GPS units and digital mapping tools. As elk shift with mild winters and changing habitat, Montana FWP biologists use detailed tracklogs to verify coverage, avoid double-counting, and improve year-to-year consistency—leading to sharper data and smarter management decisions.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Reminder-2026 Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake begins in 16 days on March 12

The 2026 Spring Mack Days, sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, runs from March 12 to May 9, focusing on conservation efforts while offering cash prizes for anglers.

Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana

Yellowstone River Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Cold Water, Sluggish Fish, Best Nymph & Streamer Tips + Fly List

Ice and slush have mostly melted, but the Yellowstone River is still very cold and fish are sluggish. Nymphing is the most effective approach right now; if you throw streamers, plan on a slow-motion strip or swing. Watch for spotty midge hatches depending on wind, and pay close attention to forecasts, wind, and potential ice shelves at ramps. Current flow: 1,260 CFS. Full fly pattern list included.

Feb 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Ice Thickness Report for Margo’s March Madness Derby (Feb. 22, 2026): 8 Inches at County Ramp, Thinner Near the Dam

Ice conditions for Margo’s March Madness Derby are improving but vary widely across the lake: the north end at the county ramp has about 8 inches (with 3 inches of snow), Lions Camp is around 6 inches, and the south end near the dam is roughly 4.5–5 inches. Watch for wet, slushy areas, pressure ridges, and heaved ice—and remember check-in is mandatory before fishing day one.

Feb 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Watch a Cow Elk Defend Her Calf From a Mountain Lion in Montana (Wild Video)

A cow elk in Montana wastes no time going full defense mode when a mountain lion is near her calf. Hooves fly as the mother elk stomps and strikes—an intense reminder that wildlife threats in the backcountry aren’t limited to predators.

Feb 24, 2026 · Angela Montana

Missouri River Below Holter Dam Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Winter Bite, Flows & What’s Working

It’s a deep-freeze on the Missouri River below Holter Dam, but the fishing has stayed surprisingly solid for anglers willing to layer up and work for it. Here’s the latest from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, including a flow update and what’s been producing.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Tongue River Marina Ice Report (Feb. 20): Open Water Near Campers Point & Possible Hidden Weak Ice

Feb. 20 update: Open water is visible near Campers Point South (from the road) and reported off Campers Point North by the pond. Warm temps, wind, and snow cover may be creating hidden weak spots and thin-ice “bridges”—use extreme caution.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Hell Creek Marina Ice Report (Feb. 22, 2026): SxS OK to Lucky Point, 4-Wheelers to Johnson; Main Lake Open

Hell Creek Marina’s Feb. 22, 2026 ice update says a cold snap improved conditions: SxS are reported good to Lucky Point, 4-wheelers from Lucky Point to Johnson, with questionable ice beyond Johnson. The main lake is reported open—watch for changing conditions.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Closes Male Mountain Lion Season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 After Sunset (Feb. 24, 2026)

Montana’s Fish & Wildlife Commission ordered the male mountain lion season in LMU 123 and LMU 340 to close one-half hour after sunset on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. Hunters should check current quota status before heading out.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens Up

Final winter fishing report for Helena-area reservoirs before updates resume in April. Ice is highly variable and can change fast, and Canyon Ferry’s south end is seeing expanding open water that’s undermining nearby ice—use extreme caution on any ice.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

Montana Hunting Licenses Go on Sale March 1: What Opens, What Changed This Year, and What to Check Before You Buy

March 1 is Montana’s “opening day for paperwork”: licenses go on sale and special draw applications open. With multiple rule changes tied to the 2025 Legislature and the Fish and Wildlife Commission, this is the year to double-check requirements before you buy—don’t assume it’s the same as last season.

Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana

2026 Kalispell Wolf Banquet (Feb. 28): Flathead County Fairgrounds Details, Dinner, Raffles, Games & Auction

The 2026 Kalispell Wolf Banquet is set for February 28 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell. Expect a hearty meal followed by games, raffles packed with prizes, and an auction with bid-worthy items. Here’s what to know and how to plan ahead.