Oct 27, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
DNA cracks yearslong Wyoming poaching case, hunter banned for life
A multi-year wildlife poaching investigation in Fremont County involving the illegal taking of deer, elk and a moose has been […]
Oct 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
One Man, One Set of Tracks, One Legend
The scene is set back in October 1958, a dairy farm hand named Fred Mercer crawls out of his tent […]
Oct 25, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Deer Decoy in a Blizzard Catches a Night Shooter Near Glasgow
Montana wardens set a deer decoy in a blizzard near Glasgow and catch a shooter on the run. Here’s why this sting matters to every honest hunter.
Oct 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Celebrating the Woman Who Changed Fly Fishing Forever
Joan Wulff, born in 1926, revolutionized fly fishing over her century-long life. As a champion angler, educator, and co-founder of the Wulff School of Fly Fishing, she influenced generations by emphasizing technique over strength. Celebrating her 100th birthday, we honor her lasting impact on the sport and its enthusiasts.
Oct 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Warden Measures $8,000 Poached Bull Elk — Then Catches Hunters Shooting a Decoy Deer
Montana wardens bust poachers using a decoy deer — and measure a 6×6 bull elk worth $8,000 in trophy restitution. Here’s what every hunter needs to know.
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 · Moosetrack Megan
Most Yellowstone National Park Roads and Entrances Close Nov. 1, 2026, for Winter Season
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, Wyo. – As fall settles over Yellowstone National Park, most park roads and three entrances will close […]
Oct 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 10.23.26
This week, smallmouth fishing was most effective with deadstick rods using minnows, while pike fishing slowed due to murky waters, with spoons being successful. Lakers are moving into shallower depths, with jigs and plastics proving effective. Water temperatures ranged from 55 to 57 degrees.
Oct 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana FWP considers stocking bighorns on private land
Montana is exploring the restoration of bighorn sheep in central and eastern regions, focusing on areas with significant private land. A recent public panel, convened by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, aims to develop recommendations for managing bighorn populations while addressing challenges like disease transfer from domestic livestock and landowner participation.
Oct 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Upper Salmon River Steelhead Fishing Report (10-21-2026)
From October 14-18, angler effort and catch for steelhead increased on the Upper Salmon River, particularly downstream of North Fork, where the average was 45 hours per fish. Water levels were favorable at 1,140 cfs. Note that Clearwater basin steelhead harvest closes on October 21, but catch-and-release remains.
Oct 21, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Flathead National Forest Announces Quill Pig Project in Swan Valley
The Flathead National Forest today announced the Quill Pig Project, located four miles south of Swan Lake, MT in the […]
Oct 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fall Flathead Area Report: The Run Is Building
Autumn fishing in Flathead sees increasing whitefish activity, especially near the old steel and CFalls bridges. Lake trout and bass fishing are promising, while pike and crappie remain active. Check regulations and weather, and join the whitefish contest at Chancy's Fish Camp. Good luck and enjoy the season's opportunities!
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 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Before You Pack Out That Buck, Here’s What Montana Hunters Need to Know About CWD Testing
Montana FWP’s new CWD testing video tells hunters exactly where to go and how to prep their deer, elk, or moose samples this season.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
October Ruby River: No Crowds, No Complaints
October on the Ruby River is an ideal time for fly-fishing, with fewer crowds and active brown trout. Anglers should focus on early baetis and streamers, especially as leaves fall. Winter shifts the strategy to nymphs and midges. Keep in mind fishing regulations for different river sections.
Oct 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
When Your Trophy Case Turns Into a Court Case
Man drops a bag of cash on professional escorts for the biggest elk in Pennsylvania, and the escorts end up […]
Oct 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Blizzard Bucks Down: Heckman’s Pronghorn Hunt
Opening day got skunked, day two brought a blizzard, and somehow that’s when Walker Heckman’s Montana pronghorn season turned into […]
Oct 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
New Idaho catch-and-release state record brown trout
Thatcher angler beats record set just three months earlier This summer’s hot streak of record fish continues to churn out […]
Oct 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
When a Hunter’s Story Doesn’t Add Up: Montana Wardens Work a Deer Case on WILDLANDS
Montana game wardens unravel a deer hunter’s suspicious story in this WILDLANDS episode — a real-world reminder of what FWP enforcement actually looks like.
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 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cloud Foundation, BLM battle in court over Pryor wild horses
U.S. District Court Judge William Mercer indicated willingness to allow the Bureau of Land Management to proceed with a wild horse gather, pending a hold on adoptions for advocacy arguments. Concerns over potential irreparable harm to the Pryor Mountain herd were discussed, along with the BLM's claims of necessary emergency actions due to poor forage conditions.
Oct 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 10.16.26
This past week, fishing was fruitful for smallmouth and pike, with effective lures like hair jigs and hammered spoons. Lake trout remained deeper, requiring specific jigs for success. Salmon populations are rising in the bays, with over 300,000 eggs collected by Fish and Game, marking a positive trend.
Oct 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bull Ness Monster: Congrats on a Brute of an Archery Bull
Dillon Ness successfully hunted an impressive bull elk in Montana, as showcased by Trophy Bucks and Bulls of MT. This achievement comes during a challenging archery season, which runs from September 5 to October 18, offering more opportunities for hunters before the general rifle season begins.
Oct 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Ted Turner’s 45,000 Bison: What It Means for Montana
Turner replaced cattle with bison on the Flying D in 1989. Now 45,000 animals roam 2 million acres. Here's what that means for Montana hunters and wildlife.
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 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 10.13.26
Cold weather kept boat anglers away from Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter this past weekend, yet trout fishing thrived along shorelines. With stable weather expected, walleye fishing should improve at Canyon Ferry. Additionally, kokanee snagging is yielding larger fish at Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir, continuing through October 31st.
Oct 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Everything Was Legal, Hunter Still Passed on Two Speedgoats
PJ DelHomme bought two speedgoat tags, hauled a rifle and optics worth more than his truck down to southwestern Montana […]
Oct 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Montana Archery Bull for the Books
Congratulations, Wilson Pike! Hunt Montana shared Pike’s Montana archery bull with a rack you could pitch a tent under. Wholly […]
Oct 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Life of Faith, Family, and the Open Road: Charles “Chuck” Lanes)
Chuck Lanes, 81, passed away on October 5, 2026, due to a motorcycle accident. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and Navy veteran, Chuck left a legacy of faith and community service. He pastored for 38 years and was known for his love for classic cars and motorcycling. His memorial service is on October 16, 2026.
Oct 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck MT Fishing Report 10.9.26
As cold weather approaches, pike are active in shallow weed beds, responding well to spoons, cranks, and buzz baits. Smallmouth bass are being caught in deeper rocks and shallows, while lake trout are moving unpredictably. Warmer temperatures have kept salmon at bay, but cooler weather may draw them back in soon.
Oct 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
This Hunter Beat the Odds, Then the Record
Talk about making your first rodeo count! Pennsylvania entomologist Mike Skvarla had been tossing his name in the hat since […]
Oct 9, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
He Drove to Fort Peck for Lake Trout — Fort Peck Had Other Plans
A visiting angler heads to Fort Peck chasing giant lake trout and gets a surprise. Here’s what Montana’s biggest reservoir threw at him instead.
Oct 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Madison River, mid-October, and the trout are basically moving downtown.
The Madison River is flowing at 778 CFS and a favorable 57.2°F, attracting trout migrating from Hebgen Lake. Anglers in southwest Montana are urged to arrive early to avoid crowds. Fishing strategies include using specific flies based on temperature changes and weather conditions, optimizing the chances of catching big fish.
Oct 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
New Paradise Valley Retreat Opens to Public
Auster at Dome Mountain opens on October 4, offering a restaurant, bar, and lodging near Yellowstone National Park. Founded by Arthur M. Blank, the site aims to foster community connections through outdoor activities and hospitality. Blank emphasizes philanthropy and environmental conservation, aiming to create a gathering space in Paradise Valley.
Oct 8, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Yellowstone’s Wolves Are Back — So Why Aren’t the Willows?
Wolves have ruled Yellowstone for 30 years. So why isn’t the landscape recovering the way the science promised it would?
Oct 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Nine Rams Walked In. One Didn’t Walk Out.
Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime kind of day! On September 19th, Blayne Larson of Missoula punched his bighorn sheep tag in […]
Oct 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
North-Central Montana Hunting Regulation Changes Explained
New rules for Hunting Districts 426, 447, and 471 in north-central Montana affect mule deer and antlerless elk hunting. From fall 2026, general licenses will allow mule deer bucks only until November 15; a special permit is required afterward. Antlerless elk cannot be taken on National Forest lands without a specific Elk B-license.
Oct 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Pheasant hunting season to open October 10
Pheasant season in Montana opens on October 10, with over 15,000 birds released across state lands. Nonresident hunters may begin hunting on October 20. This initiative, ongoing since 2021, aims to promote hunting and conservation among new hunters. Safety tips for bear encounters and fire risks are advised for hunters.
Oct 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Super Tag Recipient Bags Ram Season Royalty
Jed Heggen successfully utilized a Montana Super Tag to harvest a remarkable bighorn ram, a feat many hunters only dream of. This achievement underscores the value of the Super Tag, with Jed’s skillful approach leading to a memorable trophy that will be cherished for years to come. Congratulations to him!
Oct 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Fort Peck Monster that Didn’t Get Away
Thirteen-year-old Colt Trogden had an impressive fishing day at Fort Peck, landing a remarkable 43.5-inch, 29.20-pound fish. The Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop shared his achievement on social media, showcasing his successful catch made simply with a spinning rod and crankbait. This catch sets a high standard for the season.
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 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Moose Was Done Before It Even Knew It
A moose with impressive antlers steals the spotlight in a post featuring remarkable hunting pictures shared by Trophy Bucks and Bulls of MT. Hunter Elizabeth Wengerd showcases her joy after a successful hunt, capturing the essence of a memorable experience, culminating in a mount-worthy trophy that embodies her achievement.
Oct 3, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
American Prairie’s 3-Million-Acre Vision: What Eastern Montana Hunters and Anglers Need to Know
American Prairie is reshaping hunting and fishing access across eastern Montana. Here’s what hunters and anglers need to know about Open Fields, bison, and Fort Peck country.
Oct 2, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Acquires 572 Acres in Tobacco Root Mountains
The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest has completed the acquisition of a 572‑acre inholding in the Tobacco Root Mountains, securing new public […]
Oct 2, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Grizzly bear killed in close encounter in Trego area
On the morning of Oct. 1, a landowner in the Trego area shot and killed a male grizzly bear. Fortunately, […]
Oct 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bass illegally stocked in Livingston pond
Illegal smallmouth and largemouth bass have been found in Sacajawea Lagoon, connected to the Yellowstone River, threatening the local trout fishery. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks proposes to remove these bass through a dewatering process. A public meeting will be held on Oct. 1 to discuss the project and gather feedback.
Oct 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Bass That Was One Board Short of a World Record
Montana angler Daniel Caricaburu-Lundin experienced a thrilling fishing day in Idaho, where he caught a massive smallmouth bass weighing 8 pounds, 6 ounces and measuring nearly 23 inches. Despite the excitement, he realized he released a potential world record fish without proper measurement documentation, highlighting the importance of having the right tools at hand.
Oct 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 10.01.26
Pike fishing is excellent over shallow weed beds using spoons or topwater lures, with trolling crankbaits in deeper waters also yielding good catches. Smallmouth are active in depths of 20-30 feet using jigs and minnows. Lake trout are found at varying depths, and salmon are abundant in the bays as snagging season begins.