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 Bison Bet — How One Montana Ranch Grew Into 2 Million Acres of Restoration
Ted Turner bet his Montana ranch on bison in 1989. Decades later, 45,000 animals roam 2 million acres. Here’s why Montana hunters should care.
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.
Oct 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
There’s Nothing Still About the Stillwater River Right Now
The Stillwater River is currently ideal for fishing, with clear water at 409 cfs and a temperature of 55.8°F. Fly patterns should focus on Baetis during the main hatch from 10 to 2, while hoppers are effective in the afternoon. Stealth is crucial; use lighter tippets and target tailouts for best results.
Sep 30, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Hiker dies after fall near Leigh Lake in Lincoln County
On Sunday, Sept. 27, at approximately 3:51 p.m., Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office dispatch received a 911 call reporting a hiker […]
Sep 29, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
14 black bears removed during investigation at residence near Bozeman
14 Black Bears Removed During Investigation at Residence Near Bozeman Sep 29, 2026 11:23 AM Bears were heavily food conditioned […]
Sep 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 9.28.26
The Missouri River reservoirs are thriving this fall with abundant fish. Walleye action is mixed, while rainbows are plentiful, especially at the south ends of Canyon Ferry and Hauser. Anglers are successfully using various baits and techniques. Kokanee snagging is also fruitful with a generous daily limit.
Sep 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Chancy’s Fish Camp 9/25 Report Says: Go Fish!
As of September 25, 2026, fall fishing in northwest Montana is thriving. Key highlights include lake trout on Flathead Lake, whitefish bites in the delta, and mid-October whitefish gatherings near Columbia Falls. Other notable fishing spots include Lake Mary Ronan for perch and Bitterroot Lake for salmon. A fall whitefish contest starts mid-October.
Sep 27, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Grizzly Bear Attack Near Augusta Is a Warning Shot for Every Montana Bowhunter Heading Into the Front
A grizzly bear attacked a bowhunter near Augusta, MT on Sept. 14. Here’s what it means for hunters along the Rocky Mountain Front this season.
Sep 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
MT Outdoor Podcast Region 4 Preview: Elk, Deer and Surprises
In the latest Montana Outdoor Podcast, Dale interviews Wildlife Manager Cory Loecker about hunting in Region 4, highlighting potential elk populations reaching 1,000 to 2,000. The region's diverse terrain hosts various game animals. Loecker also discusses regulation changes and suggests ideal hunting spots, urging listeners to prepare before hunting season.
Sep 26, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Bison vs. Cattle on Montana Public Grass — Who Really Wins?
Montana PBS digs into the long-running fight over who grazes public grasslands in north central Montana — cattle ranchers or roaming bison herds.
Sep 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Carbon County bear incidents climb
BRETT FRENCH | bfrench@billingsgazette.com Over the past three to four years, bears have gotten bolder in the mountain town of […]
Sep 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Game wardens seek information on deer killed out of season south of Billings
Witness images show white flatbed truck at scene BILLINGS – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are looking for […]
Sep 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 9.25.26
Fish activity is shifting with cooling water temperatures as fall approaches, creating varied fishing conditions. Pike are near shallow weeds, smallmouth prefer deep rocky points, lakers are less aggressive and moving frequently, while salmon are being caught in specific bays. Opportunities abound for those willing to adapt their strategies.
Sep 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Breaking News: Local Gets Lost, Town Loses Its Mind
A yearling male mountain goat wandered into Bozeman, causing a stir by settling in a church parking lot. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff deemed it healthy but confused. After safely transporting it back to the Gallatin Range, locals appreciated the coordination that ensured its safe return without disturbance.
Sep 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Week 2 of 2026 Fall Mack Days: The Trout Are in Deep, and So Is the Competition
The fish are biting, the numbers are climbing, and somewhere in the depths of Flathead Lake, a $10,000 lake trout […]
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Game wardens seek information on mule deer buck shot and wasted north of Hardin
Those with information encouraged to report HARDIN – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are seeking information on a […]
Sep 21, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Mountain Lion Blows Up a Montana Archery Elk Hunt — And the Video Is Worth Every Minute
A mountain lion crashes a fired-up bull elk encounter on a Montana backcountry archery hunt. Here’s what happened — and what hunters can learn from it.
Sep 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 9.21.26
Canyon Ferry has slow fishing with walleye and rainbows moving to shallow waters. Best spots include mid-reservoir and areas around Snaggy Bay. Hauser offers good rainbow catches below the dam, while Holter sees excellent trout fishing, though walleye activity is low. The Kokanee Salmon snagging season is currently open.
Sep 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Less Than 1% Odds, Nearly 400 Inches of Antler
Austin Streifel beat the odds to draw an elusive Badlands elk tag, dedicating 80 hours to scouting. After passing on a 360-inch bull, he learned of a larger one, prompting him to travel back for a successful hunt. He shot an impressive 394-inch bull on public land, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
Sep 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Kokanee Beware: Matt with Fish On Charters is on the Attack!
Matt from Fish On Charters had a successful outing at Bitterroot Lake, catching plenty of Kokanee. The fishing conditions were excellent, with active bites and bending rods. The report suggests that tomorrow promises another great day for fishing.
Sep 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
New Ground to Hunt in Region 3
The USDA Agricultural Research Station in Region 3 is now part of the Block Management Area, allowing limited hunter access while complying with federal regulations. Historically misidentified as BLM land, it is land used for research. Hunters must sign up by September 21 to access this area in October.
Sep 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
FWP study aimed at complaints about nonresident hunters
Montana hunting license sales have increased for both residents and nonresidents, while access to private land is at a historic low, causing concerns among resident hunters about overcrowding. House Bill 568 mandates a study to analyze hunting pressures and seek solutions protecting the state's hunting traditions. Legislative challenges remain regarding nonresident hunter limitations.
Sep 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Rethinking America’s Wolf Rules
The Trump administration has initiated a federal review of wolf management, assessing whether gray and Mexican wolves can lose Endangered Species Act protections. This move aims to aid cattle ranchers and could shift management authority to states. The impact will vary across regions, especially where wolf populations are still federally protected.
Sep 15, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
More information on bear attack near Augusta
GREAT FALLS – Evidence collected at the site of a bear attack near Augusta confirms it was a grizzly bear that […]
Sep 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 9.14.26
Walleye fishing at Canyon Ferry remains active, particularly along the east shoreline. Rainbows are also being caught in various areas. Hauser Reservoir sees a surge in rainbow trout, with good boat action reported. Holter Reservoir offers excellent rainbow fishing, while snagging for Kokanee Salmon has started well at the Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir.