Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Latest Holter Fishing Update: Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports
Kokanee salmon and walleye are actively being caught at Holter Reservoir. Successful salmon fishing occurs 60 feet down using dodgers and hoochies, especially during early morning and evening. Walleye are found around deeper weed beds and drop-offs, responding well to jigs and jerk baits, with perch patterns being particularly effective.
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Prime Time Fishing at Hauser and Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir with Jonathan Miller, Capital Sports
It's prime fishing season at Hauser and Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir. Trout are active near Spokane Bay, while walleyes are thriving off weed lines, with large catches reported. At Regulating Reservoir, kokanee are biting at depths of 10 to 35 feet. Anglers are advised on effective tackle and techniques for success.
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports Reports the Walleye Bite Continues at Canyon Ferry
Canyon Ferry's south end walleyes are still actively biting, favoring bottom bouncer or lindy rigs with pink, purple, and blue tackle. The north end is yielding fewer but higher-quality fish, mainly rainbows, with deeper trolling techniques effective. The best areas are between White Earth and the dam.
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
How to Lose 33 Grand, Your Guns, and Your Dignity
Carter J. Hickey, a 21-year-old from Ohio, faced severe legal consequences after flaunting illegal hunting activities on TikTok. He pled guilty to seventeen wildlife crimes, incurring over $33,000 in fines, jail time, and a ban on hunting. His case highlights the importance of reporting wildlife crimes to protect ethical hunting and conservation efforts.
Aug 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Water Elevation Could Drop Almost 8 Feet by Feb 27
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers forecasts a decline in Fort Peck Reservoir's elevation from 2,223.9 feet on July 31 to approximately 2,216.0 feet by February 28, 2027. The report includes three scenarios, showing potential levels between 2,214.5 and 2,218.3 feet, influenced by runoff and weather conditions.
Aug 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Buying a Suppressor Recently Got a Decibel Quieter
A recent federal court ruling in North Texas has shifted silencer ownership regulations, removing them from the National Firearms Act’s restricted items list. While buyers can purchase suppressors like regular firearms, certain restrictions and state laws still apply, and further guidance from the ATF is awaited as retailers pause sales amid ongoing legal challenges.
Aug 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Montana Escape: 6th Annual Veteran Cow Elk Hunt on the Horizon
Big Sky Warrior Outreach is preparing for its 6th Annual Cow Elk Hunt from December 3-8, inviting combat veterans and Purple Heart recipients for a week in the Montana wilderness. Four veterans will be selected for this opportunity. Applications will open soon, so interested parties should stay updated on their page.
Aug 18, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
USDA acts to remove roadless rule restrictions that exacerbate rising wildfire risk
WASHINGTON, DC- Aug. 18, 2026 – Today, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the U.S. Forest Service has filed a […]
Aug 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Uncle Sam Just Unlocked 1,500 New Ways to Hunt and Fish
The Department of the Interior has announced a historic expansion of access to public lands, offering nearly 1,500 new recreational opportunities across 92 million acres. This includes access to 111 federal sites and simplifies regulations by removing over 1,000 rules. While many support the changes, concerns about management challenges due to budget cuts are raised.
Aug 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Great on the Flag, Not in the Woods: California Hits Pause on Grizzlies
A proposal to restore grizzly bears in California via Senate Bill 1305 has failed due to opposition from rural residents and a lack of funding. Supporters emphasized the cultural loss from the species' absence, while critics cited concerns about additional predators. The bill aimed to assess bear habitats but was ultimately abandoned.
Aug 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone River Fishing Report 8.17.26
Yellowstone Angler's August 17, 2026 report highlights muddy runoff impacting clarity in Yellowstone National Park, advising anglers to focus on lower river sections. With flows at 2,470 CFS and temperatures between 59.5°F and 64.4°F, fishing conditions are improving. Terrestrials are gaining traction, enhancing the chances of trout bites.
Aug 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Rifle Season Hunting Camp Extension Applications Available for Little Belt Mountains
(White Sulphur Springs, M.T., Aug. 17, 2026) – The Belt Creek–White Sulphur Springs Ranger District of the Helena–Lewis and Clark National […]
Aug 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing Conditions and Tactics on the Missouri River 8.16.26
CrossCurrents Fly Shop reports great fishing on the Missouri River this late summer despite decreased hatches. Tricos and terrestrial patterns like hoppers yield solid results, while nymphing offers the most consistent action. Anglers face "Hoot-Owl" restrictions in nearby waters. The shop has also launched its August raft rental sale.
Aug 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
10 Best Trout Lakes in Montana — What the Rankings Get Right, What to Know Before You Go
Montana has thousands of trout lakes. Here’s what to know about the 10 best — access, regulations, species, and timing — before you make the drive.
Aug 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 8.17.26
Walleye fishing at Canyon Ferry has been inconsistent, with successful spots identified along the old river channel and mid-reservoir. Rainbow fishing is good below Canyon Ferry Dam, while Holter Reservoir shows strong numbers of rainbows and kokanee, with walleye action at various locations, using different lures and techniques.
Aug 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Hidden Montana Hole Stacked With Rainbow Trout Over 20 Inches
FlyFishDan finds an unknown Montana spot loaded with 20″+ rainbow trout. Here’s why this video matters for local fly anglers this summer.
Aug 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Dove Season Opens September 1: Drought Moved the Birds
Montana dove season opens September 1. Drought shifted bird distribution statewide — here’s where to find mourning doves in 2026 and what to do now.
Aug 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Kootenai River Fishing Report: Flows, Hatches, and What’s Biting Below Libby Dam Right Now
Get the latest Kootenai River fishing report — current flows, hatch activity, best access points below Libby Dam, and fly recommendations for trout and whitefish.
Aug 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Glacier’s Wolverines Outsmart Grizzlies With One Brilliant Winter Trick
A new wildlife doc filmed in Glacier National Park reveals how wolverines use snowpack to cache food — and back down grizzlies in the process.
Aug 15, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Report: What’s Biting August 15th
The cooler weather is giving Montana anglers a little relief heading into the August 15 weekend, and the fishing is […]
Aug 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.14.26
Walleye have become deeper but remain active, responding well to bottom bouncers and crankbaits in 25 to 35 feet of water. Smallmouths are concentrated on deep main points, feeding on 2-inch Cisco imitations. Pike are abundant and can be caught easily. A successful spawn of Cisco this spring is promising for fishing.
Aug 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Groups compete to auction off Montana hunting tags
Since 1986, Montana's auctioning of game tags has generated $12.67 million for conservation efforts. Five hunting tags are available for auction this year, with rising interest among conservation groups. Bidding has peaked as tags attract high bids, notably for bighorn sheep and elk, amid competition and public engagement in the process.
Aug 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
To Catch A Piranha…
Eight-year-old Seamus Coffey shocked his Delaware County, Pennsylvania community while fishing when he caught a red-bellied piranha, an unexpected find for local waters. Wildlife officials suspect it was a dumped aquarium pet. His catch has made him a local legend, highlighting the surprising twists that fishing can bring.
Aug 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hoot-owl restrictions, mouth closures lifted on several streams in southwest Montana
On August 13, some hoot-owl restrictions and river-mouth closures will be lifted due to cooling stream temperatures, while sections of the Big Hole River will close to angling because of low streamflow. Anglers are encouraged to practice water conservation and manage fish stress to support Montana's fisheries.
Aug 12, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Haywire Gulch closed in Flathead County due to wildfire
Aug 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hunters Gain Access to 7 Million Acres as Montana Releases 2026 Block Management Details
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released updated maps and guides for the fall hunting season, granting access to nearly 7 million acres through its Block Management Program. Hunters are encouraged to review regulations carefully to maintain cooperation with landowners and ensure ethical hunting practices. Resources are available online and at FWP offices.
Aug 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montanans Get First Dibs on Most Upland Game Birds This Season
Montana has implemented a new hunting regulation allowing resident bird hunters a 10-day head start over nonresidents. This change aims to ease congestion and give locals priority access to popular hunting areas. Nonresidents can still hunt mountain grouse immediately but must wait for other upland species. Always check the latest regulations.
Aug 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Coyote Hunt Gone Wrong: Reintroduced Gray Wolf Killed in Northwestern Colorado
Standard operating procedure for a hunter usually boils down to one golden rule: know what you’re pulling the trigger on. […]
Aug 10, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Law enforcement orders boats off reservoir for firefighting planes
Screenshot
Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 8.10.26
Walleye, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon are actively biting at Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs. Optimal fishing spots vary by location, with effective techniques including trolling and jigging using various colored rigs. Rainbows are caught near dams, while kokanee fishing peaks early morning. Anglers are successfully using a mix of lures and baits.
Aug 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Reeling in Memories: 8-Year-Old Conquers Fort Peck Through the Elements
Jake Schrock and his eight-year-old son, Michael, shared an unforgettable fishing trip at Fort Peck, Montana. Despite challenging conditions, Michael joyfully caught six lake trout and his first Chinook, including a remarkable 19-pound king salmon. This adventure showcased his potential as a passionate fisherman. Congratulations, Michael!
Aug 9, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
3-year-old attacked this weekend by bear while playing on deck
Source BC conservation Officer Service
Aug 9, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Moose hunt scam lands illegal Alaska guide 3 years behind bars
Alaska Moose Hunt Scam: Illegal Guide Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison On May 5, 2026, a court sentenced […]
Aug 9, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
She Drew a Montana Bull Elk Tag — Then Discovered Most of the Unit Was Private Land
Keren drew a coveted Montana bull elk tag — but nearly the entire unit was private land. Here’s how it played out.
Aug 8, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Evacuation status moves to “go” for popular Montana ski area, hot springs
ALERT: Evacuation Order Upgraded to “GO” for Elkhorn Hot Springs and Maverick Mountain Ski Area ALERT: Go status reached. Effective […]
Aug 8, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
UM Police seeks missing person, known to frequent Missoula trails
MISSOULA – The University of Montana Police Department wants assistance from the community to help locate a missing individual, Josef W. […]
Aug 8, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Cornell Bans Wild Game Processing After Bear Butchered in Dorm
Two hunters brought a black bear carcass into a Cornell dorm kitchen to butcher it. Now the Ivy League school has banned all wild game processing on campus.
Aug 8, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
A 500-Pound Grizzly Came Within 20 Feet of This NW Montana Cabin — Trail Cam Footage Inside
A grizzly bear returned just 20 feet from a remote NW Montana cabin — trail cam footage and hard-won bear-proofing lessons inside.
Aug 8, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Reports August 8th
The results are in from the Ft Peck Tournament of Kings, the water conditions around Montana are stabilizing in areas […]
Aug 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Governor Gianforte Deploys Montana National Guard to Support Fire Response in Washington
HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today issued an executive order to mobilize members of the Montana National Guard to support […]
Aug 7, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Montana man who man shot himself in the leg during target practice faces possible federal prison sentence
BILLINGS – A Laurel man who was found with an illicit firearm while under felony indictment admitted to charges today, […]
Aug 7, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
When ‘Too Wild’ Becomes the Problem: What Montana’s Bison Battle Means for Public Lands Hunters
Montana’s bison management debate raises a hard question for hunters and public lands users: what does “wild” actually mean on American public land?
Aug 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.6.26
Walleye fishing remains strong, with success reported at 15-18 feet, using slow death hooks and half crawlers. Pike are abundant, caught by casting spoons or trolling crankbaits in depths ranging from 15 to 30 feet. Salmon fishing is challenging, with best results at 70-90 feet using specific gear.
Aug 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
Legal standoff ends: Forsyth outfitter complaint dropped
A Texas couple, David and Crystal Watts, pursuing the purchase of Montana's Diamond Cross Ranch, voluntarily dismissed their complaint against the Trophies West Outfitters amid a legal dispute over hunting rights. The parties allegedly resolved the issue, but details remain undisclosed. The closing is set for August 24, and hunting agreements are a key concern.
Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missouri River (Holter to Great Falls) Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 8.6.26
When temperatures rise, trout congregate near dam releases, where the cold water is oxygen-rich. Effective flies include scuds and nymphs. Grasshoppers become viable for topwater fishing in summer evenings. In warmer downstream areas, larger pike lurk, best targeted with aggressive flies like black sex dungeons.
Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Going Deep, Striking Gold: Holter & Regulating Fishing Update by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports 8.6.26
Holter and the Regulating Reservoirs are seeing fluctuating fish activity, including kokanee, walleye, and pike. Kokanee are deeper, while walleye thrive in weed beds using jigs and drop shots. For effective results, use chartreuse, pink, or orange lures. Early mornings and evenings offer the best chances for bites.
Aug 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena
Canyon Ferry's fishing scene is thriving, with successful walleye catches from the south to north end, particularly using pink and other vibrant colors on bottom bouncers and jigs. Trout fishing is also fruitful in deeper waters, with bright deep diving cranks and troll setups yielding 2-3 pound catches.
Aug 5, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Man dies in suspected Montana cliff diving incident
Aug 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Rock Creek Fishing Report: Early Morning Techniques
Rock Creek is experiencing peak skinny-water conditions, making trout easy to spot but easily spooked. Wading is essential as floating is prohibited. Fish early to avoid hoot owl restrictions. Target structural areas with terrestrial flies like hoppers and ants. Adjust tactics with nymphs and streamers for aggressive strikes. Enjoy the fishing while adhering to rules.
Aug 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Emergency closure issued for Silver Run Wildlife Management Area due to bear activity
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has declared an emergency closure of Silver Run Wildlife Management Area near Red Lodge due to grizzly bear activity. The area is unsafe for public use while efforts are made to trap a conflict bear that poses a threat to safety. The closure remains until further notice.