Mar 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Secrets of Night Fishing: Gear and Timing for Success
Night fishing in Montana offers a refreshing experience amidst tranquil surroundings. Targeting trophy trout with specific techniques, the activity emphasizes stealth, ethical practices, and optimal timing for a unique outdoor adventure.
Mar 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Foothills Sheds Are Dropping Now: Best Montana Units This Weekend
Warm March temps are dropping elk and mule deer sheds early across Montana. Here's exactly where to look this weekend before the window closes.
Mar 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
How ‘A River Runs Through It’ Changed Montana Fly Fishing — 32 Years Later
Discover how the 1992 film A River Runs Through It transformed Montana fly fishing, creating both opportunities and challenges that still impact anglers today.
Mar 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Shed Hunting 2026: Which Units and Elevations Are Dropping Right Now
Late March snowpack is receding fast. Here's exactly which Montana units and elevation bands are producing fresh elk and mule deer sheds this week.
Mar 23, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
5 Montana Ranches and Producers Just Won $1M in USDA Value-Added Grants
Montana ag producers score big as USDA announces $1M+ in Value-Added Producer Grants for 5 operations, helping farmers move beyond raw commodities
Mar 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Week 2 Update on the 2026 Spring Mack Days Fishing Frenzy on Flathead Lake
The 2026 Spring Mack Days fishing tournament is underway, with anglers catching over 5,100 lake trout. The competition runs until May 9th, featuring a chance to win tagged fish worth thousands.
Mar 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Early Spring Fishing Report: Navigating Flathead Valley’s River Flows
In March, the Flathead Valley's unpredictable weather has led to unusual fishing conditions. Despite challenges, trout fishing is thriving, with guides recommending slow, deep techniques and bright flies for success.
Mar 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Kickoff to Spring at Hell Creek Marina
As of March 22, 2026, ice has melted and Hell Creek Marina is open, heralding an exciting season ahead at Fort Peck, especially with favorable weather conditions.
Mar 21, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Report – March 21st
Spring is starting to show up across Montana, and fishing is picking up with it. Ice fishing is mostly done […]
Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Lake Access Restored: Hell Creek Marina’s Latest Update
Between a sudden 80° fever and a little help from the wind, Mother Nature just gave the ice an eviction […]
Mar 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Breaking the Ice: Why Fort Peck Marina is the Place to Be This Week
With the ice clearing at Fort Peck Marina, boating season is upon us. Eddie Mindt has worked tirelessly to open the bay, allowing early access to perfect weather for cruising. Embrace the marina's lively atmosphere, grab your gear, and enjoy the water before summer’s heat sets in. Don't miss out!
Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Fort Peck Fishing Report: Shore Hot, Ice Cold
Fort Peck is still in a deep freeze from the Shafthouse to Rock Creek, so keep the boat on the […]
Mar 20, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Elk Migration Exodus: Where Montana’s 2026 Migration Hits First
Thousands of elk are leaving Wyoming's National Elk Refuge now. Here's exactly where they'll enter Montana and how to use it to your advantage.
Mar 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Beefing Up the Defense: Why Montana Ranchers Are Heading to Court Over I-194
Montana's MSGA opposes ballot initiative I-194, which they argue restricts free speech by banning certain entities from influencing political matters. A coalition seeks to block the initiative, protecting business rights.
Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bear’s Dinner Party: Why Your Favorite Bozeman Trails are Temporarily Off-Limits
Due to a wildlife attractant's presence, the Bozeman Ranger District has closed popular hiking trails around Big Sky from March 18 to April 15, 2026, ensuring public safety and preventing bear encounters.
Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Temecula Standoff: When Viral Clips Meet Harsh Realities
A viral Temecula standoff proves context is king. Is a landowner’s gunfire an unhinged overreaction or the "boiling point" of repeated theft and vandalism? Colion Noir weighs in on property rights.
Mar 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Grizzly Bears: Nature’s Muscular Monuments to Power
Meet the Grizzly: Montana’s ultimate heavyweight. With 1,200 PSI bite force and armor-thick skin, these biological bulldozers redefine power. Discover why the "hump" is pure muscle and how they dominate.
Mar 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
4 Fly Fishing Hacks From a Montana Guide That Make a Difference on the Water
Montana guide Tim Cammisa shares 4 practical fly fishing hacks for spring trout season on the Madison, Gallatin, and Yellowstone rivers.
Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
From the Big Sky to Big Water: Why Montana Sledders Should Take Note of the Michigan “Ice-Capades”
A snowmobiler in Michigan floated on ice near Mackinac Island during a storm, highlighting dangers of unstable ice. Safety gear and caution are essential for snowmobilers near water and ice.
Mar 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana’s Wolf Season: That’s a Wrap for 2025-2026
The Montana wolf season ended on March 15, with 243 wolves harvested out of a quota of 452. Region 1 led with 98 harvests, while Regions 6 and 7 reported none. Future seasons are scheduled, but dates may change due to federal court orders. Data serves vital conservation purposes. Stay informed for updates.
Mar 18, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Temporary Closure in Custer Gallatin National Forest Due to Wildlife Attractant
Officials with the Custer Gallatin National Forest report that a section of the forest near the Gallatin River has been […]
Mar 18, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Annual Fish and Game fur auction to run online April 6-20
All items were either found, seized as evidence or salvaged.
Mar 17, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Seasonal Worker at Old Faithful Sentenced to 12 Months for Assault
A seasonal employee working in the Old Faithful area of Yellowstone National Park will spend a year in federal prison following an assault on a co-worker.
Mar 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Massive Railroad Merger Could Leave Montana Farmers and Ranchers Over a Barrel
Montana farmers face potential pricing nightmare as $85B railroad merger threatens to eliminate competition and spike shipping costs for grain and cattle feed.
Mar 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Current Snowpack Conditions in Montana’s River Basins
Montana's snowpack varies significantly; while overall moisture is above normal in many basins, some areas remain below average. The state may still see beneficial late-season snowfall through April.
Mar 15, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Texas Man Sentenced After Firearm Discovered During Yellowstone Traffic Stop
A Texas man will spend time in federal prison after a traffic stop in Yellowstone National Park led to the discovery of a loaded handgun.
Mar 15, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
More than 156,000 geese push through Freezout Lake WMA in past six days
The migration is on at Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area near Choteau, where bird counters have observed more than 156,000 light geese and hundreds of swans pushing through!
Mar 15, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
North Idaho angler hauls in new state record cutthroat trout
Imagine then the wave of hysteria after reeling in a 27-inch long Westslope cutthroat trout one day. For Coeur d’Alene angler Kyle Hatrock, that day was Feb. 1.
Mar 14, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Backcountry Trail Cam Footage Shows What’s Really Moving When Nobody’s Watching
Year-round Montana backcountry trail cam footage from Diaries of a Trailcam — with tips on how hunters can use this intel to scout smarter.
Mar 14, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Report – March 14th
Mid-March in Montana means winter and spring are still arguing about who’s in charge. Ice fishing opportunities are fading quickly […]
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
The Silent Killer in Your Neighbor’s Yard: Why Japanese Yew is Dropping Montana Elk
Montana elk are dying from Japanese yew, a common landscaping shrub. Learn why this ornamental plant is lethal to wildlife and what you can do to protect herds.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana FWP Cracks Down as Illegal Lion Kills Spike This Spring
Montana FWP reports a spike in illegal mountain lion kills this spring. Here's what violations are happening, penalties involved, and how to stay legal.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Wyoming Rancher Takes DEF Fight to U.S. Senate: ‘It’s a Battle Against Cold and Clock’
Wyoming rancher tells Senate how frozen diesel fluid regulations threaten cattle feeding in sub-zero weather, demanding practical solutions for farmers
Mar 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Fishing Report 3.13.26
This past week, fishing on Peck was impossible due to warm weather and unsafe ice conditions, signaling the end of the season. Areas near the dam have opened up, hinting at potential boat usage soon. It's an opportune time to service ice fishing gear and prepare for next winter.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana’s Truck-Mounted Thermal Scanner Laws: What Hunters Risk This Spring
Montana hunters need to know where the legal lines are on vehicle-mounted thermal scanners before spring predator and bear seasons begin.
Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Why Montana Hunters Are Losing Their Best Spots to Out-of-State Pressure
Montana hunters face growing pressure from out-of-state crowds on public lands. Why protecting local hunting traditions and giving resident voices priority matters now.
Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana’s 2026 Elk Regulations Changed: What to Know Before Drawing Deadlines
Montana's 2026 elk hunting rules just changed. Review new regulations now before application deadlines—quota shifts could affect your season plans.
Mar 12, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Flathead Avalanche Center issues AVALANCHE WARNING
The Flathead Avalanche Center in Hungry Horse has issued a BACKCOUNTRY AVALANCHE WARNING.
Mar 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Central Montana game wardens report an increase in illegally taken mountain lions
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wardens reported a rise in illegally harvested mountain lions in central Montana in 2025, including hunters who shot lions first and only purchased hunting licenses afterward.
Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Shed Hunting 2026: Find Elk Antlers Before the Rush
Low snowpack is opening Montana elk country weeks early. Here's exactly where to go right now to find fresh sheds before everyone else does.
Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
300,000 Snow Geese Are Funneling Into Freezout Lake Right Now—Best Viewing Tips, Timing, and What to Know
Freezout Lake’s spring migration is ramping up fast, with major early flocks already confirmed and peak numbers typically arriving in late March. Here’s where to go, when to show up for the sunrise blast-off, what you’ll need, and how the Wild Wings Festival and spring Conservation Order fit into the month ahead.
Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Dangerous Ice Warning (March 11, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Holter, Fort Peck & Flathead Lake Conditions
Mid-March is Montana’s most dangerous stretch for ice fishing. Here’s what local guides, marina operators, and FWP officials are seeing on Canyon Ferry, Holter, Fort Peck, and Flathead—plus late-season safety gear, best practices, and when to switch to open water.
Mar 10, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Shed Hunting Hotspots: 7 Public Land Areas to Find Fresh Elk & Deer Antlers in March (Plus Timing & Gear Tips)
Montana’s prime shed-hunting window is here. As bulls and bucks start dropping, March 10–25 can be the sweet spot for finding fresh elk and deer antlers on public ground. Here are seven proven public-land areas—from the Missouri River Breaks to the Milk River country—plus practical tips on timing, gear, and reading the landscape so you can cover ground efficiently and boost your odds.
Mar 10, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Fishing Forecast (Mid-March): Ice-Out Updates, Best Rivers & Lakes, and Top Flies as Spring Starts
Mid-March is Montana’s ice-out hinge point: dangerous, variable ice on many reservoirs, but growing open-water options and the season’s first meaningful midge windows. Here’s a historically grounded look at where to go this week, what to throw, and how to stay safe as waters transition to spring.
Mar 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helicoptering Into Landlocked Public Land in Wyoming for Elk Sparks Viral Rancher Confrontation—and a Theft Charge
After more than a decade of building Wyoming elk preference points, Andrew McKean and friends cashed in on a hard-to-access unit by flying a helicopter into landlocked public ground surrounded by private ranches. The hunt was lights-out—until a nearby rancher allegedly hauled off an elk head, triggering a tense confrontation, a viral video, and a theft charge.
Mar 9, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Early Spring Walleye Below a Missouri River Dam: Shore Fishing Tips + Catch-Clean-Cook Video
MinnDak Outdoors hits the Missouri River below a dam for early spring walleye—covering lure and bait approach, subtle bites, and the full catch-clean-cook experience from riverbank to plate.
Mar 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
University of Montana Launches New Fisheries Science Chair Backed by $5 Million to Protect Cold-Water Trout
The University of Montana has launched a new Chair of Fisheries Science with $5 million from 56 donors. Yoichiro Kanno will lead research on how warming temperatures and shrinking snowpack are reshaping trout habitat—and what restoration, student training, and science can do to help Montana’s iconic rivers endure.
Mar 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Idaho Hunter’s “Bow-Season” Trophy Elk Story Unravels After Rifle Evidence Found, Officials Say
Idaho investigators say an archery-season trophy bull elk was illegally killed with a rifle—and then staged to look like a legal bow kill. A recovered 6.5 mm bullet, a search warrant, and additional spotlighting allegations in a separate case helped drive major penalties, including jail time, steep fines, restitution, and long-term hunting license revocations.
Mar 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Idaho Shed Hunter Stumbles on Two Napping Mountain Lions—Can You Spot Them in the Photos?
An Idaho outdoorsman looking for sheds got the surprise of a lifetime when he accidentally walked into a pair of mountain lions napping in the sun. The photos and video are a sharp reminder of how easily these predators disappear into the landscape.
Mar 7, 2026 · Angela Montana
NW Montana Fishing Report (March 5, 2026): Echo Open, Flathead Lake Laker Bite, Koocanusa Rainbows — Chancy’s Fish Camp
Northwest Montana waters are opening up fast. Chancy’s Fish Camp reports Echo Lake is fully open with early smallmouth showing, McGregor is producing lake trout and rainbows, Flathead Lake is fishing well for lakers, and Koocanusa is kicking out rainbows and bull trout. Plus: which Flathead River sloughs are open, a Thompson River update, and an ice-safety reminder.