Sep 3, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Three Years of Gains: Mule Deer Are Making a Real Comeback in Region 7
Montana FWP confirms a third straight year of mule deer population gains in Region 7. Here’s what it means for hunters this fall.
Sep 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Is Cooling Down, but the Bite Isn’t…
On September 2, 2026, Jonathan Miller reported that Canyon Ferry is experiencing early fall conditions, resulting in improved fishing opportunities. Walleye and rainbow trout are becoming more active with cooler nights. Popular techniques include bottom bouncing, jerkbaits, and trolling, with specific bait colors recommended for different areas of the lake.
Sep 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Walleye Are Moving and the Pike Are Hungry at Hauser
Hauser's fall fishing is heating up as walleye transition to rocky areas, responding well to jerkbaits and paddle tails. Trout are active near Spokane Bay, with successful catches reported using marbou jigs. Meanwhile, kokanee fishing remains elusive, and anglers are advised to consider leaders for hungry pike.
Sep 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Plenty of Elk, Fewer Antelope and One Dry Forecast in South Central MT’s Region 5
South-central Montana's wildlife faces challenges as hunting season approaches. While mule deer fawn recruitment improved, populations remain low. Elk herds are stable but mostly reside on private lands. White-tailed deer numbers increased slightly, while pronghorn declined, prompting reduced license quotas. Hunters must also participate in mandatory CWD testing at designated check stations.
Sep 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
North-Central MT’s Region 4 Elk are Strong, Deer are Mixed, Pronghorn are Moving
Montana's big game is in improved condition as elk, deer, and pronghorn enter fall after successful winter survival and beneficial spring rains. Elk and whitetail populations are robust, while mule deer prospects vary regionally. Pronghorn numbers have declined in the west but increased in the east. Hunters are advised to check updated regulations.
Sep 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Great Northeast Montana Region 6 Herd Check
Northeast Montana's big game populations are recovering from recent challenges. Pronghorn numbers are thriving, while mule deer are rebounding with improved density and fawn survival. Elk populations, particularly in the Missouri River Breaks, have declined sharply, leading to reduced hunting licenses. White-tailed deer continue to struggle, but hunters may find better opportunities in prairie areas.
Sep 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Southeast Montana (Region 7) Big Game: A Mixed but Improving Picture
Southeast Montana's wildlife recovery shows mixed results. Elk populations vary by area, with HD 700 struggling, while mule deer increased by 15 percent but remain below the long-term average. Pronghorn numbers soared to the highest since 2006. Hunters are advised to check regulations as access issues persist, especially for elk.
Sep 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bear attacks woman north of Columbia Falls
Area closure in place KALISPELL — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) are investigating a bear attack on a woman walking her […]
Sep 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Holter Fishing Update by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 8.31.26
Fishing at Holter shows promise as kokanee initiate seasonal shifts, averaging 2 to 5 pounds. Trolling with colorful dodgers and scented corn proves effective. Walleye are moving to drop-offs, responding to jerk baits. Perch fishing is inconsistent. Note, snagging season on the Regulating Reservoir opens September 1st.
Aug 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
Black Bears Increasingly Seen in Billings
Black bears are increasingly showing up around Billings due to a natural food shortage in the Rocky Mountain West. As these bears approach urban areas in search of food, residents are urged to secure garbage and pet food. Conflicts may rise in fall as bears prepare for hibernation. Report sightings to FWP.
Aug 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 8.31.26
Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs show varying fishing conditions. Walleyes are caught mainly with crankbaits and jigs in specific areas, while rainbows are found around deeper water and structures. Holter has good rainbow action with various fly techniques, and some kokanee are being caught near the Dam.
Aug 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
When a Public-Land Hunt Crosses the Line
Andrew McKean’s Wyoming elk hunt was supposed to make a point about public-land access. Instead, it became a very public […]
Aug 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Dove Opener September 1: Find Birds Before the Crowds Do
Montana’s dove season opens September 1. Here’s a boots-on-the-ground guide to finding birds on public and Block Management lands before everyone else shows up.
Aug 29, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Report: August 29th get dialed in here for your next fishing trip.
The days are getting shorter, and Montana’s nights and early mornings are beginning to cool off for anglers and their […]
Aug 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.28.26
Walleye fishing remains productive with crawlers on slow death hooks in 25-30 feet of water, using a red 10mm bead. Pike fishing thrives at 20-35 feet with crankbaits; cooler water is needed for shallow weed beds. Salmon catches varied from 35 to 180 feet, with effective flies at 70-105 feet depth.
Aug 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Rainbow trout targeted in Yellowstone fish poisoning project
BRETT FRENCH | bfrench@billingsgazette.com Yellowstone National Park fisheries staff will begin poisoning nonnative rainbow trout in Buffalo Creek on Aug. […]
Aug 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Heads Up, Hunters: New Playbook for Lincoln’s Block Management Areas
Autumn hunters in Lincoln, Montana should be aware of new rules for two Block Management Areas. For Horsefly Creek, access requires reservation from August 26-28, with no camping allowed. Keep Cool Hills has updated parking and camping restrictions, limiting stays to three days within 21. Check regulations online before visiting.
Aug 27, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
What a Montana Elk Guide Actually Packs for a Full Season in the Backcountry
A Montana elk guide breaks down every piece of gear he trusts for a full season in the mountains — clothing, boots, and power solutions included.
Aug 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
PSA: Help Keep Fort Peck Marina’s Fish Cleaning Station Open
The fish cleaning station at Fort Peck Marina was not broken but clogged due to improper use. After clearing the jam, it functioned well. Users are reminded to follow rules: feed one fish at a time, keep water running, and clean up afterward to prevent future issues and ensure the station remains available for all.
Aug 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
When a Whistle Won’t Cut It: The Return of the Backcountry Hand Cannon
Smith & Wesson's Model 500, designed for heavy-duty wilderness survival, led to the creation of the 500ES Emergency Survival Kit in 2006. This kit combined a powerful handgun with essential survival gear. Fast forward to today, Custom & Collectable Firearms has introduced a modern Grizzly Emergency Kit, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Aug 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hiker Uses Bear Spray on a Yellowstone Wolf — It Worked
A Yellowstone wolf shadowed a backcountry hiker, ignored every hazing tactic, and finally got a face full of bear spray. Here's exactly how it went down.
Aug 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
How Much Can a Grizzly Bear Lift? The Answer Should Change How You Hunt and Hike in Montana
How much can a grizzly bear lift? The verified numbers are staggering — and they have real implications for Montana backcountry hunters and hikers.
Aug 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 8.24.26
This week's fishing report around Helena highlights active catches of walleye, rainbows, and perch in Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter Reservoirs. Recommended techniques include bottom bouncers, jigs, and slip bobbers. Notable spots include Confederate Bay and the Causeway Arm, with kokanee fishing best in early mornings.
Aug 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Rifle Pointed at Montana Wardens Twice Before Lunch on Opening Day
A Montana warden had a scoped rifle pointed at him twice in one day on opening day. Here’s what happened and why every hunter needs to see it.
Aug 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Six Months, One Super Cub, and a Radio Antenna: Inside a Montana Elk Poaching Investigation
Montana FWP wardens spent six months cracking an elk poaching case — including aerial surveillance in a Super Cub. Here’s what hunters need to know.
Aug 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Glass These Montana Ridges Now to Find Velvet Bulls Before September
Archery elk opens September 1. Here’s where Montana bowhunters should be glassing right now to pin down velvet bulls before the opener.
Aug 22, 2026 · Miguel Lee
Montana Fishing Report: August 22nd The bite is on for those in the know.
The days are starting to get shorter, but the fish are not. Reports are in from across Montana and if […]
Aug 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
MT Outdoor Podcast: Team USA, World Champions & Montana’s Legendary Trout Waters
The 2026 World Fly Fishing Championship will soon take place in Montana, attracting top anglers from around the globe. The event highlights the unique competition format, emphasizing technique and strategy. Team USA aims for gold on familiar waters, with international participants eager to experience the region's renowned fisheries.
Aug 21, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Tom Miner Campground Temporarily Closed Due to Hazard Tree Concerns
Gardiner, MT, August 21, 2026—The Gardiner Ranger District of the Custer Gallatin National Forest has implemented a temporary closure of […]
Aug 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 8.21.26
Walleye are being caught using bottom bouncers in 24-30 FOW with slow death hooks, especially favoring orange blades or white beads. Pike fishing is successful with crankbaits or spoons in 15-35 FOW, while salmon remain scarce but are being caught at 70-100 feet down with blues and greens, trolling at 2.1-2.2 MPH.
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 […]