Mar 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Kootenai River Fishing Report (Montana) Feb. 28, 2026: 4,000 CFS Flows, Cold Water Nymphing & Streamer Tips
Low, steady flows out of Libby Dam (4,000 cfs) and mild weather have the Kootenai River fishing very doable heading into early March. With water temps around 40°F, expect limited dry-fly action—but consistent nymphing and slow, deep streamer presentations can still turn up quality fish, especially in softer 5+ foot holding water.
Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana FWP’s Spring Electrofishing on 7 Rivers: What Anglers Need to Know About Tagged Trout (and Rewards)
FWP crews are floating seven Montana rivers over the next several weeks for their annual electrofishing “science tour,” collecting trout data and continuing tagging efforts. If you catch a tagged trout on the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Ruby, or Madison, you can help the research—clip the tag, report it online, and you may even qualify for prizes or cash depending on the tag color.
Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Wolf Harvest Update: 241 Taken So Far (Out of 452) — Regional Breakdown, Open Units, and Season Dates
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reports 241 wolves harvested statewide so far this season out of a 452 quota (excluding WMUs 313 and 316). Here’s the regional breakdown, which units are open/closed, season dates, and why checking FWP’s live counter matters before you head out.
Mar 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Tongue River Marina Ice Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Open Water Growing Near Ramp, Marina Bay Still Iced
Tongue River Marina reports 15–20 feet of open water off the ramp, with Marina Bay still mostly iced over but improving. More open water is showing from Rattlesnake south toward the mine as daytime temps warm—boat fishing could be just weeks away.
Mar 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Makoshika State Park: Montana’s Largest State Park (Badlands Hikes, Dinosaurs & Stargazing in Glendive)
Makoshika State Park near Glendive is Montana’s largest state park—about 11,538 acres of rugged badlands, hoodoos, and wide-open sky. Built on the fossil-rich Hell Creek Formation, it’s a must for dinosaur fans and anyone looking for hiking, a scenic drive, camping, a visitor center, and even disc golf in the badlands.
Feb 28, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Late-Winter Ice Update, Where the Bite Is (and What to Avoid)
Closing out February with classic late-winter conditions: some lakes are finally offering decent ice, but thickness varies—especially on larger reservoirs. Here’s the latest on Fort Peck, Canyon Ferry, and why smaller lakes remain the safer bet.
Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Blackfoot-Clearwater WMA Shed Hunting Opening Day 2026: May 15 Noon Access, Vehicle Entry Registration, and New Nonresident Rules
Headed to Montana’s Blackfoot-Clearwater WMA for opening day shed hunting? Here’s the May 15, 2026 noon access plan, how vehicle entry registration and lineup work, where walk/bike/horse users can enter, and what the new seven-day nonresident restriction and $50 WMA shed-hunting license mean.
Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Big Cat Closures: Region 6 Bobcat Season Ends Feb. 28; LMU 280 Male Mountain Lion Closes Feb. 27, 2026
Montana FWP reports two quota-driven big cat closures: bobcat hunting and trapping in Region 6 ends at midnight Saturday, Feb. 28, and LMU 280 closes to the hunting of male mountain lions one-half hour after sunset Friday, Feb. 27, 2026. Here’s what to know and where to check official quota updates before you head out.
Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
2026 Fort Peck Tournament of Kings (Montana): Dates, Entry Fee, $10K Daily Payouts + Random Weight Salmon Pots
Montana’s 1st Annual Fort Peck Tournament of Kings hits July 31–Aug. 1, 2026 with a 150-boat cap, $400 team entry, top-four daily payouts, and a twist: Random Salmon Weight Pots that could pay $15,000 per day. Registration opens online March 15, 2026.
Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Elk Don’t Follow a Script—How FWP Uses GPS Tracklogs to Survey Smarter
Montana wildlife surveys have evolved from paper maps and pencils to handheld GPS units and digital mapping tools. As elk shift with mild winters and changing habitat, Montana FWP biologists use detailed tracklogs to verify coverage, avoid double-counting, and improve year-to-year consistency—leading to sharper data and smarter management decisions.
Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Shed Antler Hunting Rules for 2026: $50 Nonresident WMA License + 7-Day Waiting Period
Montana’s 2026 shed antler rule updates mainly affect nonresidents on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): a new $50 WMA shed hunting license and a seven-day wait before picking up sheds after WMAs open. Most WMAs open at 12 p.m. on May 15, but verify the specific area’s opening time.
Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens Up
Final winter fishing report for Helena-area reservoirs before updates resume in April. Ice is highly variable and can change fast, and Canyon Ferry’s south end is seeing expanding open water that’s undermining nearby ice—use extreme caution on any ice.
Feb 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Hunting Licenses Go on Sale March 1: What Opens, What Changed This Year, and What to Check Before You Buy
March 1 is Montana’s “opening day for paperwork”: licenses go on sale and special draw applications open. With multiple rule changes tied to the 2025 Legislature and the Fish and Wildlife Commission, this is the year to double-check requirements before you buy—don’t assume it’s the same as last season.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Drought 2025: Golden Triangle Now in Extreme Drought
Dry February is strangling Montana's winter moisture recharge. The Golden Triangle has slipped into extreme drought — here's what it means for the season ahead.
Feb 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s Biting
From Chancy’s Fish Camp in Evergreen, MT: ice conditions are a mixed bag across NW Montana—some lakes still have decent ice, others are getting questionable, and a few are leaning into “boat season” vibes. Here’s what to watch for (including pressure ridges) and what anglers are targeting: perch, salmon through the ice, plus trolling for lake trout and rainbow trout.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Upper Salmon River Steelhead Report (Feb. 11–15, 2026): Mild Winter, Stable Flows, and Fish Pushing Farther Upstream
A mild winter kept the Upper Salmon River more open than usual in mid-February, with warmer water, a shorter ice jam, and stable flows. Monitoring from Feb. 11–15, 2026 also showed steelhead moving farther upstream than typical, with strong angler effort and good catch rates across most monitored areas.
Feb 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
Flathead Area Fishing Report (Feb. 18, 2026): Ice Depths, Open-Water Hot Spots, and McGregor Tournament Update
Macman’s latest Flathead-area fishing report: Browns Lake is around 10 inches of ice and Upper Thompson about 6, but no ice is truly safe. Lake Mary Ronan and Flathead River sloughs are in good shape, colder temps should help, and McGregor Lake hosts a combo ice/open-water tournament next weekend. For open water, Yellow Bay has been productive past 200 feet—avoid Rocky Point due to gill netting.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Ice Update: 20–30 mph Winds Break Up Remaining Sheets, Leaving Unstable Ice and Open Water
Strong 20–30 mph winds are rapidly changing conditions on Fort Peck. Lakeridge Lodging and Bait Shop reports remaining ice sheets have broken up, leaving a mix of wide-open water and unstable, fragmented ice—use extreme caution and avoid questionable surfaces.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Lake Ice Rescue: Search & Rescue, Airboat Crew, and Locals Bring Stranded People Safely Back to Shore
Valley County Search and Rescue responded around 4:00 p.m. after several people became stranded on Fort Peck Lake. An airboat team launched while others staged on land, and local good Samaritans used side-by-sides to help get everyone off drifting ice and back to shore safely. A timely reminder that late-winter ice can change fast.
Feb 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Wolf Harvest Update (Feb. 17, 2026): 229 Wolves Taken Toward 452-Quota; WMU 313 Closed
FWP reports 229 wolves harvested statewide toward a 452-wolf quota (excluding WMUs 313 and 316). Region 1 leads with 96, followed by Region 2 (73) and Region 3 (49). Region 3 remains open (49 of 60), WMU 316 is open (1 of 3), and WMU 313 has closed after reaching its 3-wolf limit. The general season and trapping run through March 15.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ice Safety Update: Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop Says Lake Is Blown Open—No Safe Ice Access
Lakeridge Lodging & Bait Shop shared an update (Feb. 17, ~6:30 p.m.) warning that the ice “did not make it” and the lake is blown open with no safe access. More updates are expected after the storm passes.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fox Haas Dies at 95: Legendary Turkey Hunter, Mossy Oak Patriarch, and Mississippi Conservation Force
Fox Haas, the celebrated turkey hunter and conservation advocate, has died at 95. From a 75-season run (with only two missed years during tuberculosis) to helping spur Mississippi turkey reintroductions and inspiring Mossy Oak’s roots, Haas leaves a legacy that shaped spring woods for generations.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Fishing & Ice Report (Feb. 17, 2026): Canyon Ferry, Hauser, Holter & Helena Valley Reservoir
Montana FWP’s latest Helena-area reservoir update: ice is extremely variable, with open water in spots. Here’s where anglers are finding rainbows, walleye, perch, kokanee, and burbot—plus what’s being used and where conditions are unsafe.
Feb 16, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
2 plead guilty in case alleging 12 illegally killed mountain lions
One defendant is set for trial later this year.
Feb 16, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Nearly $50,000 in fines, restitution imposed for illegal big horn sheep hunts on Salmon-Challis National Forest
A defendant sold and facilitated Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep hunts in an area of the Salmon-Challis National Forest that is closed to commercial guiding.
Feb 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why Field Dressing Requires Full Focus
Hunting accidents happen. A twisted ankle in rough country. A close call with a falling branch. Even the occasional misplaced […]
Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
NW Montana Fishing Report 2.12.26
The Murphy lake derby is canceled, but several others remain active. Ice conditions vary, with good fishing reported for perch, salmon, and pike across various lakes. Stay safe on the ice.
Feb 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Forget Ice Cleats? Here’s How to Make Them Yourself!
Forgetting ice cleats can happen, but making your own is a cost-effective alternative. It’s simple, customizable, and can ensure safety on icy surfaces without relying on store-bought options.
Feb 14, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Report – February 14th
Mid-February in Montana is usually prime time for ice fishing, but this winter is still being stubborn. Many waters are […]
Feb 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Dam bypass channel changes Lower Yellowstone River fishing
A new bypass channel allows fish to navigate around Intake Diversion Dam, significantly increasing walleye populations in the Lower Yellowstone River and enhancing local fishing experiences over the last four years.
Feb 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck, MT Fishing Report 2.13.26
Despite warm weather, ice conditions remain stable with 7-13 inches in various areas. Fishing activity is slowing, but decent catches persist. Caution is advised as temperatures are expected to drop soon.
Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ 15-Minute Battle on the Ice
What started as just another drop through the ice quickly turned into something much bigger for angler Don Wilkins. Almost […]
Feb 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Open Water Alert: Fishing Conditions at First Lake Near Havre, MT
First Lake near Havre has ample open water according to social media reports, with locals encouraging boat use. Fresno Lake has also opened, indicating early opportunities for fishing.
Feb 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.9.26
Anglers should exercise caution due to varying ice conditions. Fishing yields include rainbows at Canyon Ferry and Helena Valley, while Hauser and Holter have mostly open water and unstable ice.
Feb 9, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Federal lawsuit targets EPA approval of Montana’s new nutrient pollution standards
A new federal lawsuit is challenging EPA’s approval of Montana’s shift away from numeric nutrient pollution standards—rules that had guided […]
Feb 7, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Report – February 7th
Early February in Montana is still playing games with anglers. Ice fishing opportunities remain limited in many areas, with inconsistent […]
Feb 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Weekly Fort Peck Ice & Fishing Report 2.6.26
Ice conditions and fishing varied this week in Rock Creek and McGuire. Reports noted strong northern bites in shallow water but melting shorelines and changing ice thickness require caution for safety.
Feb 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
12 Creative Duct Tape Uses for Fishing Trips
Duct tape is an invaluable fishing tool, offering twelve innovative uses such as repairing gear, waterproofing shoes, securing items, and improving grip, making it essential for any fishing trip.
Feb 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Appreciating Unique Deer: Beyond Hunting Seasons
Before anyone checks the calendar or reaches for regulations—no, it is not Montana’s general big game season, and no, this […]
Feb 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
Visit Gates of the Mountains: Open Water Fishing
The Gates of the Mountains opens today at 7:30 a.m. for fishing, but visitors must bring exact change due to seasonal closures of facilities. Weather-related updates will be provided.
Feb 3, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
New Idaho State Record Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Caught Ice Fishing
The mere act of even catching a Yellowstone cutthroat is a bucket list for many anglers. This one broke a record
Feb 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bighorn River, MT Fishing Report for 2.1.26
Winter fishing on the Bighorn River is effective with trout lying deep. Key tactics include deep nymphing and slow streamers, focusing on stealth and depth due to cold conditions. Rainbows and browns are selective.
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Marina Fishing Highlights with Kyle Mcgaugh
Kyle McGaugh and his crew had a successful fishing trip despite deteriorating ice conditions. They caught nice fish and emphasized the importance of safety and monitoring changing weather conditions.
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 2.2.26
Anglers are reminded that ice conditions can be extremely variable. Ice thickness can range from thick enough to support a […]
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Cheyenne’s Fishing Success at Montana’s Georgetown Lake
Cheyenne Chase caught a remarkable 3.83 lb fish at Georgetown Lake, showcasing the joy of fishing for kids. It highlights confidence, memorable experiences, and the rewards of patience.
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Ice Safety Alert: Man Falls Through Ice at Tiber Reservoir
A man fell through ice at Tiber's west end, but survived due to a flotation suit and ice picks. Unpredictable ice conditions remind outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution and prepare adequately.
Feb 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
An Icy Side-by-Side Fort Peck Adventure
Don Wilkins filmed a side-by-side ride on Montana's Fort Peck Reservoir, showcasing rough, unpredictable ice conditions. He emphasizes the importance of safety while enjoying the adventurous experience.
Feb 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Balancing Ecosystems: The Role of Wolves in Conservation
Wolf management in Alberta and Montana aims to maintain ecosystem balance, addressing stressed prey populations. It emphasizes science-based strategies rather than emotional reactions, ensuring both predators and prey are sustainably managed.
Feb 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Targeted Montana Ice Fishing: All About Burbot
Burbot, known as the poor man's lobster, thrive in Montana's cold waters, offering unique winter fishing experiences. Their populations are stable, and they are resilient, delicious, and often misunderstood.
Jan 31, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Report – January 31st 2026
Late January is still a mixed bag across Montana. Cold weather is here, but consistent ice is not. Many lakes […]