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
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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.
Aug 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
August in Southwest Montana: Beat the Heat, Dodge the Smoke, and Catch Some Trout
Southwest Montana is experiencing a relentless heat wave, with heavy wildfire smoke impacting fishing conditions. However, a cool-down is expected soon, providing favorable fishing conditions. Local guide David Kern advises anglers to fish early, especially on the Upper Madison River, Yellowstone River, and Gallatin River, while adhering to Hoot Owl restrictions.
Aug 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Walleye and Trout Fishing Updates in the Helena Area Reservoirs 8.3.26
Montana's Missouri River reservoirs provide varied summer fishing opportunities. Canyon Ferry is best for walleye and rainbow trout, while Hauser offers good rainbow action below Canyon Ferry Dam. Holter features kokanee among other catches. Anglers are adapting to changing fish patterns with specific techniques and locations for successful fishing.
Aug 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Chancy’s Fish Camp Flathead Area Fishing Report 7.31.26
Flathead Lake is experiencing an active whitefish bite, particularly in 50-60 feet of water. The north end catches smaller fish (1-3 lbs), while the south end yields larger ones (2-5 lbs). Various lures are effective. Additionally, other species like lake trout, smallmouth bass, and pike are thriving in nearby waters. Enjoy the fishing season!
Aug 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Lakes Fishing Report by Montana Angler 7.31.26
Montana Angler's July 31, 2026 report highlights the allure of sight-casting in stillwaters like Hebgen, Quake, and Ennis, despite rivers being popular. August's warm temperatures make lakes variable, yet morning and evening hatches provide thrilling gulper action. The report emphasizes the charm of fishing in lakes during summer's peak.
Aug 2, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
A Montana Outfitter’s 3 Must-Have Flies — And Why They Work on Our Rivers
A working Montana outfitter breaks down the 3 flies he never leaves home without — and the reasoning holds up on the Bighorn, Missouri, and beyond.
Aug 1, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Day 2 $10,000 top prize goes to team with 28-pound catch at inaugural Tournament of Kings on Fort Peck
150 teams brought in 29 salmon at Day 2 of the inaugural Tournament of Kings on Fort Peck Reservoir on Saturday.
Aug 1, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Backcountry Bowhunter Earns a Public Land Elk Hunt for the Ages
Born and Raised Outdoors caps Elk Week with a backcountry public land bowhunt that every Montana archer needs to see before September.
Aug 1, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Fishing Reports: Summer Bite Still Going Strong
August is here, and while the dog days of summer can make fishing a little more challenging, plenty of Montana […]
Jul 31, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
27 pound chinook salmon brings in top $10,000 prize on first day of inaugural Tournament of Kings on Fort Peck
150 teams from seven states brought in 19 salmon on Fort Peck Reservoir on Friday for the inagural Tournament of […]
Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
Holter Reservoir Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 7.31.26
Walleye fishing at Holter Lake is thriving, particularly from Oxbow bend to the clay banks, with 15”+ fish being caught easily. Effective tactics include jigging with goby or perch patterns and slow trolling crankbaits. Kokanee fishing is also improving, especially at depths of 40’, with early and late hours being optimal for catches.
Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
Canyon Ferry Fishing Report by Jonathan Miller with Capital Sports in Helena 7.31.26
Canyon Ferry Lake, currently 88% full, is providing excellent fishing conditions for local anglers. Walleye are thriving on the south end with bottom bouncers, particularly favoring pink and other vibrant colors. The north end offers successful casting techniques, while trout are being caught in cooler depths, responding well to various lures.
Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
$10,000 Bounty Targets Yellowstone Wolf Hunters
A Texas influencer is paying $10,000 to identify anyone who shoots a Mollie's Pack wolf outside Yellowstone. Wyoming hunters and officials are furious.
Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don Wilkins’ Fishing Strategies for Walleyes, Pike, and Salmon at Fort Peck 7.31.26
As summer temperatures rise on Fort Peck, angler strategies must adapt for success. Guide Don Wilkins highlights that walleyes are in 15-20 feet, while pike and salmon seek deeper, cooler waters. Effective techniques include specific trolling speeds and rigs, with notable success coming from diverse tackle setups and depths.
Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
A path to hunting grizzlies? Alberta offers option
BRETT FRENCH | bfrench@billingsgazette.com No grizzly bear hunt has been held in the Canadian province of Alberta since 2006, yet […]
Jul 31, 2026 · Angela Montana
Sky Salmon: The Dream Team’s Accidental Catch
You have probably heard of the “Dream Team”, consisting of Bill Zahradka, the Salmon Slayer, and Gary Rueb, the Black […]
Jul 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Move Over, Boring Standard Plates: Montana Just Got a Serious Upgrade
Montana motorists can now upgrade to a custom license plate supporting science-based wildlife management, thanks to the Foundation for Wildlife Management. This initiative simplifies funding, ensuring money goes directly to wildlife efforts. The project succeeded through collaborative community support, transforming standard tags into a symbol of ecological commitment.
Jul 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Additional fishing restrictions and closures begin July 29 on several Montana rivers and creeks
Montana FWP expands hoot owl fishing restrictions starting July 29 on the Big Hole, Blackfoot, and other southwest and western Montana rivers due to rising water temperatures.
Jul 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Additional fishing restrictions and closures begin July 29 on several Montana rivers and creeks
Rising river temperatures in Montana are leading to fishing restrictions and closures to protect fish mortality. Starting July 29, "hoot owl" restrictions will limit fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight across multiple rivers. Additionally, daily closures will apply to specific tributaries of the Clark Fork River to safeguard bull trout populations.
Jul 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
PSA: Don’t Use Your Grandma’s Hunting License (And Other Lessons from Two Convicted Poachers)
Here’s the thing about trying to turn Montana into your personal, all-you-can-poach buffet: eventually, someone’s going to call the manager. […]
Jul 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Chancy’s Fish Camp: Whitefish Report & Hotspots
This week's fishing update highlights excellent conditions for catching whitefish, with prime locations at both the south and north ends of the lake. JT Tackle has supplied new jigs, and anglers are encouraged to visit Chancy's Fish Camp for gear. Ideal depths are reported to be 50 to 60 feet.