Apr 7, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

The Skwala Stonefly: The Star of Spring on the Bitterroot River

The Bitterroot River's BWO hatch is peaking right now. Here's exactly where to wade, what to tie on, and how long you have before runoff ends it.

Mar 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Missouri River Rainbows Are Peaking Right Now — Before Runoff Hits

Late March is your last clear-water shot at Missouri River rainbows. Here's where to fish, what rigs are working, and how long you have left.

Mar 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Michigan Angler Got Jail for No License – Here’s How To Avoid This In Montana

A Michigan angler just got jail time for fishing without a license. Here's what Montana's penalties look like — and why FWP is watching right now.

Mar 19, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

The Big Timber Pond Project: Why Montana Anglers Are Diving Into This Particular Permit Application

Montana's FWP seeks public comments on the Big Timber Ranch Private Ponds License proposal, focusing on its environmental impact and water management before the March 30, 2026 deadline.

Mar 18, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Pre-Runoff Nymphing: 5 Rivers Still Fishing Before Montana Blows Out

Flows are spiking fast across Western Montana. Here's which rivers still have fishable nymphing conditions this week — and exactly what to throw.

Mar 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Your First Yellowstone Cutthroat: Waters, Timing, and Flies Before Runoff

The pre-runoff window is closing fast in mid-March 2026. Here's exactly where, when, and how to catch your first Yellowstone cutthroat on the fly.

Mar 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Bitterroot Up 55%, Big Hole Surging: Nymph These Montana Rivers This Week

Flows are rising fast. Here's which Montana rivers still have fishable nymph water this week — and when each one blows out.

Mar 15, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Stillwater Fly Fishing: Montana’s Best Move When Runoff Wins

Montana rivers are blowing out now. Here's how to pivot to stillwater fly fishing at Canyon Ferry, Holter, and Hauser this spring.

Mar 13, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

4-Weight vs 5-Weight: Which Trout Rod for Madison and Spring Creeks Right Now

Pre-runoff windows are open now. Here's which rod weight actually performs on the Madison, Gallatin, and Montana's spring creeks this time of year.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Nymph Montana’s Best Rivers Now Before Spring Runoff Blows Them Out

Mid-March is your last best window for nymphing Montana's top trout rivers. Here's how to rig up and fish smart before runoff blows it all out.

Mar 12, 2026 · montanaoutdoor

Nymph Deep Now: Western Montana’s Pre-Runoff Window Is Closing Fast

Western Montana rivers are rising. You have days—maybe a week—to nymph big trout before runoff kills visibility. Here's exactly how to fish it.