Jul 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Additional fishing restrictions and closures begin July 29 on several Montana rivers and creeks
Rising river temperatures in Montana are leading to fishing restrictions and closures to protect fish mortality. Starting July 29, "hoot owl" restrictions will limit fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight across multiple rivers. Additionally, daily closures will apply to specific tributaries of the Clark Fork River to safeguard bull trout populations.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Meet the Dream Team of Pre-Tournament Salmon Fishing
The Salmon Tournament week has begun on Fort Peck, featuring top competitors Bill Zahradka, the Salmon Slayer, and Gary Rueb, the Black Jaw Fly Guy. They set an impressive standard on the first day by catching a huge 26-pound salmon, signaling a fierce competition ahead for other participants.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 7.27.26
Walleye fishing is thriving in Canyon Ferry, particularly between the Silos and Pond 4 at depths of 10 to 15 feet. Anglers are using various rigs and jigs. In Hauser, walleyes and rainbows are being caught around the Causeway Arm, while Holter offers excellent rainbow fishing. Northern pike are also reported in both locations.
Jul 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Blackfoot River Fishing Update: Prime Conditions for Summer 2026
The Blackfoot River is in prime summer condition, with clear waters and active trout. However, floating is restricted below the Weigh Station due to a bridge closure and a logjam presents safety hazards. Anglers are advised to use robust gear and fish using a dry-dropper setup for the best catches.
Jul 26, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Phipps & McFadden Run Away with Hell Creek Walleye Title – Smash Fort Peck with Over 131 pounds
The top team five teams all finished with more than 100 pounds!
Jul 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Political Unity Against Oregon’s Outrageous PEACE Act Illegalizing Hunting, Fishing, Farming and More
A radical initiative in Oregon, the PEACE Act, aimed at banning hunting and fishing, failed to gather enough signatures to make the ballot. Both Democrats and Republicans opposed it, citing economic and cultural threats. Despite the setback, proponent David Michelson remains committed to promoting animal rights activism in the long run.
Jul 25, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Jogger attacked by bear at Henrys Lake State Park
Henrys Lake is not far from the Idaho-Montana state line.
Jul 25, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
64 pounds leads Day 1 of Hell Creek Walleye Tournament on Fort Peck
A familiar team is in the lead. Click here for Day 1 results!
Jul 25, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Jason Eggebrecht and the 2026 FT Peck Tournament of Kings
Jason Eggebrecht provides Details for anglers participating in the 2026 FT. Peck Tournament of Kings. Montana Outdoor Radio Show · […]
Jul 25, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Reports – July 25th
Montana’s tournament fishing season is going strong, and many anglers are getting prepared for the Tournament of Kings next weekend. […]
Jul 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Follow Ross Tate, the Whitefish Whisperer, Into the Mysterious and Always Exciting World of Lake Whitefish
This week’s Montana Outdoor Podcast features Ross Tate, the Whitefish Whisperer, who shares insights on fishing for the renowned Whitefish at Flathead Lake. With tips on lures, techniques, and prime locations, Ross aims to enhance fishing experiences. Additionally, listeners can explore recipes and engage with the podcast community.
Jul 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Storms send mudslides across SW Montana, NW Wyoming
Heavy rains in Montana and Wyoming have caused mudslides and flash flooding, particularly in wildfire burn areas. The West Yellowstone region experienced severe storms with significant rainfall, leading to bridge blockages and road obstructions from mud and debris. Ongoing cleanup efforts are in place after unprecedented storm activity.
Jul 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Early Season vs. Rut: Why Montana Archery Elk Hunters Need to Ditch the September Bugle
Montana archery elk season runs early Sept through mid-October. Here’s why your rut calling tactics will wreck an early season hunt — and what to do instead.
Jul 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 7.23.26
Walleye are being caught using bottom bouncers and crawlers in 10-20 feet, with jigs also effective near mayfly hatches. Pike are abundant in various locations, favoring spoons and crankbaits in 8-15 feet. Salmon are scattered; successful lures include Flashers and flies, trolled at 2.1-2.2 speed.
Jul 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hell Creek Marina Fishing Update by Bob Bergquist 7.23.26
The latest report from Hell Creek Marina highlights excellent walleye and bass fishing, with many anglers reaching their limits. However, northern pike are struggling in the calm, warm waters. A stiff wind is needed to cool the lake, or challenging conditions may persist into August.
Jul 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Spearfishing Pike in Montana’s Murky Water: What They Found
Deep State Spearo dives into northwest Montana's stained pike water early summer — low visibility, big teeth, and a surprise they didn't expect. Watch this.
Jul 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Missouri River Just Got Way Cooler in North Dakota
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has made history by stocking tiger trout in the Missouri River, south of the Garrison Dam. This hybrid fish, a cross between brown and brook trout, is sterile and grows large due to reduced reproductive energy. Anglers in Montana may find this an exciting reason to explore new fishing opportunities.
Jul 22, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
New state record Northern pike hauled out of northern Idaho
Welcome to the Idaho record fish books, Timothy Hicks!
Jul 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck’s New Secret Weapon: Dana Lutz
Fort Peck Marina Outfitters welcomes Dana Lutz to their guide team. A seasoned angler with deep local knowledge, Dana recently placed 8th in the Montana Governor's Cup. He offers fishing trips on a 2024 Warrior 2090 Tiller, equipped with advanced Garmin LiveScope electronics, along with sonar training. Book quickly!
Jul 22, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Grizzly Management Returns to Montana: What State Control Means for Hunters, Ranchers, and Backcountry Users
Montana grizzly management shifts to state control. Here’s what hunters, ranchers, and backcountry users need to know about what comes next.
Jul 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Additional fishing restrictions begin July 22 on several Montana rivers
Rising water temperatures in Montana are prompting hoot-owl fishing restrictions from 2 p.m. to midnight to protect fish populations. Effective July 22, the restrictions affect several rivers, including the Big Hole and Yellowstone. These measures aim to mitigate stress due to high temperatures and low flows, ensuring fish health and sustainability.
Jul 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
From Bait to Record: Cooper Clark’s Fishing Adventure
Imagine cruising 21 miles off the coast, hunting for massive bluefin tuna, and dragging in a fish that actually leaves […]
Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Flathead Area Fishing Report by Chancy’s Fish Camp 7.20.26
Chancy's Fish Camp Weekly Fishing Report highlights excellent fishing conditions at Flathead Lake, with notable bites for whitefish, lake trout, smallmouth bass, and salmon across various locations. Rivers are productive for pike and other species. Enthusiasts are encouraged to choose targets and utilize various effective fishing tactics and gear.
Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Your Guide to Walleye and Rainbow Fishing in Helena Area Reservoirs 7.20.26
Fishing is thriving in Helena area reservoirs, with walleye and rainbow trout biting actively. Canyon Ferry offers excellent walleye fishing, while Hauser sees shore anglers catching both walleye and rainbows. Holter is popular for rainbows, kokanee, and walleye. Grab your gear and enjoy the fishing action this season!
Jul 20, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
How to Hunt Elk in Thick Timber — Tactics That Actually Work in Montana’s Dense Drainages
Spot-and-stalk doesn’t cut it in Montana’s thick timber. Here’s how to hunt elk in dense lodgepole drainages and actually fill your tag.
Jul 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Federal Rules on Grizzly Bears: What You Need to Know
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed updates to the Endangered Species Act concerning grizzly bears in the lower-48 states. The new Section 4(d) rule introduces a two-tiered management system, allowing for more flexible interaction with grizzlies, while ensuring both animal protection and human safety. Public comments will be accepted until August 17, 2026.
Jul 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hunter-Ed Course Explained for Montana Residents
To hunt in Montana if born after January 1, 1985, certification is required to ensure safety and compliance with local laws. Adults can complete the Hunter-Ed course online, while those aged 12-17 must attend a field day. After certification, hunters can purchase tags, ensuring readiness for the season.
Jul 18, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Bear killed after fatal attack on 2 people in Canada
A bear was involved in the incident that tragically resulted in the death of two individuals who were found at McTavish Lake.
Jul 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Ted Turner’s Flying D Ranch: What 30 Years of Bison Ranching Has Done to the Gallatin Valley Landscape
How Ted Turner’s Flying D Ranch near Bozeman transformed overgrazed ranchland over 30 years — and what it means for Montana hunters and anglers.
Jul 18, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Reports – July 18th
The temperature is heating up in Montana, and so is the fishing in many areas. Get the reports you need […]
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Soup, Slime, and Solitude: The July Guide to the Jefferson River
The Jefferson River is currently low, warm, and filled with algae, prompting Hoot Owl restrictions that ban fishing from 2 PM to midnight. Ideal fishing conditions may return in September after irrigation ends, increasing fish activity. For now, anglers should seek cooler waters and wait for the river to recover.
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 7.16.26
Walleye are best caught with crawlers and slow death hooks in 15-25 feet, while bigger fish are deeper with jigs. For lake trout, target deep flats in 105-125 feet, though fish movement can be unpredictable. Northern pike are abundant, and salmon are best targeted with 8” flashers in 55-80 feet.
Jul 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena, 7.16.26
Canyon Ferry's fishing remains productive, particularly for walleye, which can be found from 15 to 30 feet deep. Anglers have success using bottom bouncing with preferred colors like blues and fire tiger patterns. Trout are still biting but are retreating to cooler, deeper waters, primarily around 15 to 30 feet.
Jul 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Feeding of wildlife leading to increased bear conflicts in Red Lodge area
“I’ve never seen bears behaving quite like this,” said Shawn Stewart, a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wildlife biologist who has worked in the area for more than five decades. “They’re bolder, breaking into vehicles and homes in broad daylight and approaching, following and even chasing people.
Jul 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Local Outrage Over Proposed Montana Rare-Earth Mine
Locals in Montana oppose US Critical Materials' plan for an 11.3-square-mile rare-earth mine at the West Fork Bitterroot River, a prime fishing and hunting area. Concerns include noise from heavy trucks, potential ecological disaster, and negative impacts on wildlife. Despite community opposition, the mining company is advancing its proposal.
Jul 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Guide Puts Clients on the Biggest Bull on the Mountain After 3 Hard Days in Southwest Montana
A guided elk hunt in a Southwest Montana general unit ends with the biggest bull on the mountain after 3 hard days of searching.
Jul 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Screen-Free Summer Walleye Strategy
Catch mid-summer walleyes effectively without expensive sonar screens. Employ classic tactics such as spinner rigs, vertical jigging, trolling crankbaits, midday slip bobbers, targeting weedlines, and using live-bait rigging. By focusing on fish habits and seasonal patterns, anglers can succeed without relying on technology.
Jul 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Horses, Fly Rods, and No-Name Rivers: Deep Montana Backcountry Trout
The Flyhards ride horses deep into unnamed Montana wilderness for wild trout. Here’s why some fishing holes are worth keeping off the map.
Jul 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Limited Time Fort Peck Chinook Salmon Charters with Fish On Charters’ Cameron Hockett
Cameron Hockett of Fish On Charters has teamed up with The Captain from the Montana Outdoor Radio Show to catch chinook salmon at Fort Peck, landing an impressive 18 and 23-pounder. He offers guided trips until August 14th, with limited slots available. Call 406-253-8526 to book your adventure.
Jul 14, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Governor Gianforte, Secretary Burgum Announce Grizzly Bear Management Returns to the States
Joined by Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Idaho Governor Brad Little, and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, Governor Greg Gianforte today announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is publishing a proposed rule change that will give states more flexibility to manage grizzly bears in areas where the species has met or exceeded federal recovery benchmarks while preserving protections under the Endangered Species Act.
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hoot-owl fishing restrictions and one closure begin July 15 on a series of rivers in southwest Montana
In southwest Montana, warming river temperatures are leading to increased fishing restrictions. The Madison River is completely closed to fishing from July 15, and hoot-owl restrictions apply to several rivers, prohibiting fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight. These measures aim to protect fish as high temperatures can cause stress and mortality.
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Get Ready to Cast Your Lines! The 40th Annual Hell Creek Fishing Tournament is Here!
The 40th Annual Hell Creek Fishing Tournament will take place from July 25-26, 2026, at Hell Creek Recreation Area. Teams can enter for $200, competing for daily cash prizes and side pots for the largest catches. This event promises excitement and lasting memories for all fishing enthusiasts.
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Isle Royale’s Wolf Population Causes Campground Closures
Imagine going on a remote island vacation only to get your luggage aggressively rifled through by the local wildlife. That […]
Jul 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Drone Misuse in Yellowstone National Park Angers Onlookers
An amateur drone operator upset Yellowstone National Park visitors and rangers by flying a drone low over a grizzly bear and her cubs. This act, illegal in the park to protect wildlife, sparked outrage among onlookers. A ranger quickly intervened, highlighting the seriousness of the rules and potential consequences.
Jul 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP’s Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 7.13.26
Canyon Ferry offers excellent walleye fishing in Ponds 2 and 3, using bottom bouncers and various lure colors. Hauser is productive for walleye near the Eldorado Dredge Piles, with rainbow fishing thriving below Canyon Ferry Dam. Holter sees strong rainbow catches early, along with some walleye and northern pike near weed beds.
Jul 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone Bison Tosses Man in Yellowstone National Park
A video of a grandfather being charged by a Yellowstone bison highlights the dangers of getting too close to wildlife. While nature may seem inviting, bison are unpredictable and should be respected. Stay at least 25 yards away, remain alert, and remember that you are a guest in their environment.
Jul 13, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Man pleads guilty to trafficking parts of Montana trophy bighorn sheep
Sentencing is set for September…
Jul 11, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
10 Teams Break 100 Pounds, One Team Wins by the Slimmest of Margins at the 2026 MT Walleye Gov Cup on Fort Peck!
Click here for final results of the 2026 MT Walleye Gov Cup!
Jul 11, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Listen to Last Week’s Show – Montana Outdoor Radio Show – July 11th Recap
If you want to get all the Tournament action, get it here from last week’s show. Montana Outdoor Radio Show […]
Jul 11, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Reports – July 11th
It’s the Montana Walleye Governor’s Cup, and the reports are in. Anglers reported from the tournament, and across the state. […]