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Montana Outdoor – Hunting and Fishing Reports, News and More

Why Idaho Killed 82 Mule Deer Found Inside a Captive Elk Facility (CWD Risk Explained)

Mar-03-26 by Angela Montana Mule Deer wildlife

Idaho Fish and Game lethally removed 82 wild mule deer after they slipped into a captive elk facility in GMU 60A during the 2025 season. With no reliable live test for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and wild deer unable to legally remain in captivity, officials say removal and testing was the most responsible option to reduce the risk of potential disease spread—despite no elk at the facility testing positive.

Public input opportunity on Holland wastewater system reconstruction proposal

Mar-03-26 by Moosetrack Megan Montana Camping Camping

The Flathead National Forest today released the proposal to reconstruct the wastewater treatment system that serves the bay loop of the 42-site Holland Lake Campground, associated RV dump station, and Holland Lake Lodge to restore the system to operational status.

Snowmobiler Stuck Near Yellowstone Boundary Rescued by Gallatin County SAR South of West Yellowstone

Mar-03-26 by Moosetrack Megan Snowmobile

A solo snowmobiler got stuck in deep snow near the Yellowstone Park boundary, about 11 miles south of West Yellowstone. Rescuers used coordinates shared by phone to reach the rider by snowmobile, free the machine, and escort the rider back to the main trail system. Authorities urge riders to travel with others when possible and carry satellite communication and basic survival gear.

Ice Fishing

Troy, Montana Man Dies After Falling Through Ice on Spar Lake During Ice Fishing Trip, Sheriff’s Office Says

Mar-03-26 by Moosetrack Megan

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office says 63-year-old Keith Mack of Troy, Montana, was reported missing after an ice fishing trip to Spar Lake. Search and rescue teams responded after his snowmobile and fishing gear were found near a hole in the ice, and he was recovered from the water March 2, 2026.

CSKT

4 CSKT Natural Resources Leaders Earn Major Montana Conservation Awards for Fisheries & Wildlife Work

Mar-03-26 by Angela Montana

Four Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Natural Resources staff members received major statewide awards for decades of fisheries and wildlife conservation leadership — including bull trout recovery, Jocko River restoration, Flathead Lake native fish work, and habitat restoration across the Flathead Reservation.

Montana Ice Fishing Reports Montana Fishing Reports

Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (March 2): Hell Creek Marina Says “Walk-On” Conditions Are Back

Mar-03-26 by Angela Montana

Hell Creek Marina in Jordan, Montana shared a March 2 ice update for Fort Peck Lake: based on water clarity, it appears the lake has rolled over and conditions are back to walk-on. Here’s what to know and what to watch next.

Montana Fishing Reports

Kootenai River Fishing Report (Montana) Feb. 28, 2026: 4,000 CFS Flows, Cold Water Nymphing & Streamer Tips

Mar-03-26 by Angela Montana

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.

wildlife

Mountain Lions Can Roam Shockingly Far: One Traveled From South Dakota’s Black Hills to Connecticut

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

Most mountain lions stay within a home range—but documented dispersals show some can go far beyond what most people imagine. One young tom’s journey from South Dakota’s Black Hills to Connecticut topped 1,500 miles, and GPS studies have captured other long treks, including a female that logged close to 1,000 miles across multiple western states.

FWP

Montana FWP’s Spring Electrofishing on 7 Rivers: What Anglers Need to Know About Tagged Trout (and Rewards)

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

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.

Hunt in Montana Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Livingston, MT Fishing Report (Feb 15–Mid-March): Prime Afternoons, Slow Water, and a Growing Shot at Big Pre-Spawn Rainbows

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

Winter still has a say, but the Livingston-area bite improves steadily through mid-March—especially for bigger pre-spawn rainbows. Focus on afternoons (possibly late morning by March 1), fish low-and-slow in deep walking-pace pools, and watch for brief midge or winter BWO activity on warm, calm days. Here’s the latest river-by-river guidance from Yellowstone Country Fly Fishing.

Mack Days Montana Tourney Trail

2026 Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake: Dates, Prizes, Rules, Fish Pickup Sites & Conservation Goals

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

Mack Days returns to Flathead Lake March 12–May 9, 2026, giving anglers nine weeks to target non-native lake trout while supporting conservation of native bull trout and westslope cutthroat. Get the key dates, prize details, entry rules, fish drop-off locations, and important release and fish ID requirements.

Hunt in Montana FWP

Montana Wolf Harvest Update: 241 Taken So Far (Out of 452) — Regional Breakdown, Open Units, and Season Dates

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

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.

DIY

Turn a Broken Fishing Rod Into a DIY Ice Rod (Budget Ice-Fishing Build Guide + Video)

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

Got an old busted fishing rod collecting dust? Don’t toss it—convert it into a short, sensitive DIY ice rod for jigging. This simple, budget-friendly build gives old gear a second life, and the video walkthrough shows you the basic steps to get back on the ice without breaking the bank.

Ice Fishing

Monster Lake Trout Through the Ice: Epic Ice Fishing Battle on the Hard Water

Mar-01-26 by Angela Montana

On the hard water somewhere north of the border (possibly Canada), anglers haul a true monster lake trout through an ice hole—an ice-fishing moment that turns frozen fingers into a story for years.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Tongue River Marina Ice Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Open Water Growing Near Ramp, Marina Bay Still Iced

Mar-01-26 by Angela Montana

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.

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Montana Outdoor Radio Show Recap: Ice Fishing Conditions, Perch Bites & Late-Winter Trout Tips (Feb. 28)

Feb-28-26 by Kamp Cook Radio Show Archive read_more

Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Late-Winter Ice Update, Where the Bite Is (and What to Avoid)

Feb-28-26 by Kamp Cook Audio Reports Archive read_more Montana Outdoor Podcast New Episodes Every Saturday!

Montana FWP’s New License Ambassador Program Replaces License Providers March 1 — What Hunters & Anglers Need to Know

Feb-28-26 by Angela Montana Montana Outdoor Podcast

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is rolling out big licensing and regulation changes on March 1, including a new License Ambassador Program to replace the longtime License Provider system in local sporting goods stores. Here’s what the Montana Outdoor Podcast revealed—and where to learn more, find ambassadors, and submit questions.

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Montana FWP’s New License Ambassador Program: What It Is, Why It’s Replacing the Old System, and What Changes March 1

Feb-27-26 by Angela Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is rolling out a new License Ambassador Program ahead of March 1, replacing the longtime License Provider Program due to aging technology. Here’s what we know so far from the Montana Outdoor Podcast—and what to listen for in the full episode.

Life-Saving Skills You Can Learn: Downrigger Dale Interviews Instructor Racheal Vargas

Feb-21-26 by Angela Montana

On the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale talks with instructor Racheal Vargas (Montana K9 Safety and Montana Health & Safety Training) about practical, life-saving skills you can learn through training for individuals and groups—including preparation to help friends, family, and even pets in emergencies.

Flathead Lake Dam Decisions: How Ripple Effects Travel Downriver to Portland

Feb-14-26 by Angela Montana

By popular demand, we’re running last week’s in-depth podcast episode for a second week. Guest Brian Lipscomb explains how what happens at Flathead Lake—especially at the dam—can ripple through the Flathead River system and influence ecosystems, communities, recreation, and agriculture far beyond the lakeshore.

Flathead Lake Dam & Hydropower Explained: Energy Keepers CEO Brian Lipscomb on the Montana Outdoor Podcast

Feb-07-26 by Angela Montana

Montana Outdoor Podcast host Downrigger Dale talks with Brian Lipscomb, CEO of Energy Keepers, Inc., about the dam on Flathead Lake—now known as the Séliš Ksanka Ql̓ispé Hydroelectric Project. Learn the history, what surprised Dale most, why lake levels stayed high longer this year, and where to find reliable water level, flow, and forecast resources.

Montana Outdoor Podcast: Yellowstone Summit Preview, Dates & How to Register

Jan-31-26 by Angela Montana

Downrigger Dale talks with Yellowstone Summit organizers George Bumann and Jenny Golding for an exclusive preview of the 5th annual online event (Feb. 19–22). Get the key dates, what the Summit is, and how to register—plus how to watch or listen to the episode and explore speakers and sessions.

Skijoring’s Evolution: From Ancient Winter Travel to High-Speed Western Sport

Jan-27-26 by Angela Montana

Skijoring began as practical winter travel—skiers pulled by dogs, reindeer, and later horses—before turning into a spectator sport. From early Nordic Games and brief Olympic-era exhibitions to today’s high-speed, technical races in the American West, here’s how skijoring evolved and why Montana is at the center of its modern resurgence—plus the latest Montana Outdoor Podcast episode to watch.

Montana

Makoshika State Park: Montana’s Largest State Park (Badlands Hikes, Dinosaurs & Stargazing in Glendive)

Mar-01-26 by Angela Montana

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.

Kid Toys

5 Kid-Safe Outdoor Toys That Spark Hunting, Fishing & Backyard Exploration (Gateway Gear Picks)

Mar-01-26 by Angela Montana

Looking for kid-safe toys that get kids off screens and into the backyard? These five “gateway gear” picks—from night vision binoculars to a bug-hunting kit—help young hunters, anglers, and explorers build outdoor skills one adventure at a time.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Whitefish & Kalispell Fishing Report (Feb. 27, 2026): Whitefish Lake Ice Holds Strong, Flathead River Bites on Sunny Days

Feb-28-26 by Angela Montana

Winter isn’t letting go yet—Whitefish Lake remains locked up with lake trout cruising deep structure, while the Flathead River rewards anglers who time it right. Here’s what’s producing now, from white tubes tipped with cutbait on the ice to nymphs and streamers in late-winter river water.

Last Weeks Show

Montana Outdoor Radio Show Recap: Ice Fishing Conditions, Perch Bites & Late-Winter Trout Tips (Feb. 28)

Feb-28-26 by Kamp Cook

This week’s Montana Outdoor Radio Show recap covers improving—but still inconsistent—ice conditions statewide, strong perch bites on smaller lakes, unpredictable larger waters, and late-winter river trout tactics (including flies that are producing) as longer days begin to shift fish behavior. Plus, a few classic slush-depth lessons learned. Catch the full episode for statewide fishing updates and Montana outdoor talk.

Audio Reports

Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Late-Winter Ice Update, Where the Bite Is (and What to Avoid)

Feb-28-26 by Kamp Cook

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.

Montana Outdoor Podcast

Montana FWP’s New License Ambassador Program Replaces License Providers March 1 — What Hunters & Anglers Need to Know

Feb-28-26 by Angela Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is rolling out big licensing and regulation changes on March 1, including a new License Ambassador Program to replace the longtime License Provider system in local sporting goods stores. Here’s what the Montana Outdoor Podcast revealed—and where to learn more, find ambassadors, and submit questions.

View All Featured Agents Hunt in Montana Kokanee Quinn Recipes

Grilled Bison (or Elk) Tri-Tip With Bell Pepper Chimichurri: Kokanee Quinn’s Flavor-Packed Recipe

Feb-28-26 by Angela Montana

Fire up the grill for Kokanee Quinn’s bison (or elk) tri-tip topped with a bright red bell pepper chimichurri—parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon, and a touch of heat. Simple prep, big wild-game payoff.

Bear

Bear Food Storage Rules Return March 1 on Custer Gallatin NF Ranger Districts (In Effect Through Dec. 1, 2026)

Feb-27-26 by Moosetrack Megan

Starting March 1, the Custer Gallatin National Forest’s food and attractant storage order returns for the Bozeman, Hebgen Lake, Gardiner, Yellowstone and Beartooth ranger districts. Here’s what visitors must do to store unattended food, trash and other attractants—plus where to find approved bear-resistant products. The order runs through Dec. 1, 2026.

Montana Ice Fishing Reports Montana Fishing Reports Montana Tourney Trail

Bitterroot Lake Ice Update (Feb. 27, 2026): 4–5 Inches at North Access, Open Water at Reeds & South Ramp — No Machines

Feb-27-26 by Angela Montana

Bitterroot Lake ice has shrunk significantly with warm weather and wind. The north end county access is now 4–5 inches, the reeds are open water, and the south end boat access has open water at the ramp. No machines. Mandatory check-in at the Hilltop Hitching Post.

Brett French

Montana FWP’s Block Management Squeeze: 700,000 Hunters, Fewer Acres—and a Plan to Bring Landowners Back

Feb-27-26 by Angela Montana

Montana’s Block Management Program is seeing far more demand even as enrolled private-land acres shrink. FWP is surveying landowners—and considering new incentives and outreach—to ease crowding and rebuild access.

Don Wilkins Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Fort Peck Rock Creek Ice Update: Rapid Deterioration After Warm, Windy Days—Use Extreme Caution

Feb-27-26 by Angela Montana

Rock Creek ice briefly improved with last week’s colder weather, but recent warmth and wind have quickly degraded conditions. With no real cold ahead, the ice season is wrapping up—use extreme caution even on foot, as shifting ice and soft shorelines are increasing risk.

Hunt in Montana

Deer Hunting Checklist: Gear, Licenses, Safety, and Field Dressing Essentials for a Smooth, Legal Hunt

Feb-27-26 by montanaoutdoor

A deer hunting checklist keeps you legal, safe, and prepared—from licenses and land access to weapon readiness, navigation, scent control, and field dressing gear. Use this streamlined list to reduce mistakes, stay organized in bad weather, and focus on reading sign instead of scrambling.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports Montana Fishing Reports

Fort Peck Lake Ice Report (March 2): Hell Creek Marina Says “Walk-On” Conditions Are Back

Mar-03-26 by Angela Montana

Hell Creek Marina in Jordan, Montana shared a March 2 ice update for Fort Peck Lake: based on water clarity, it appears the lake has rolled over and conditions are back to walk-on. Here’s what to know and what to watch next.

Montana Fishing Reports

Kootenai River Fishing Report (Montana) Feb. 28, 2026: 4,000 CFS Flows, Cold Water Nymphing & Streamer Tips

Mar-03-26 by Angela Montana

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.

Hunt in Montana Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Livingston, MT Fishing Report (Feb 15–Mid-March): Prime Afternoons, Slow Water, and a Growing Shot at Big Pre-Spawn Rainbows

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

Winter still has a say, but the Livingston-area bite improves steadily through mid-March—especially for bigger pre-spawn rainbows. Focus on afternoons (possibly late morning by March 1), fish low-and-slow in deep walking-pace pools, and watch for brief midge or winter BWO activity on warm, calm days. Here’s the latest river-by-river guidance from Yellowstone Country Fly Fishing.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Tongue River Marina Ice Fishing Report (Feb. 28): Open Water Growing Near Ramp, Marina Bay Still Iced

Mar-01-26 by Angela Montana

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.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Whitefish & Kalispell Fishing Report (Feb. 27, 2026): Whitefish Lake Ice Holds Strong, Flathead River Bites on Sunny Days

Feb-28-26 by Angela Montana

Winter isn’t letting go yet—Whitefish Lake remains locked up with lake trout cruising deep structure, while the Flathead River rewards anglers who time it right. Here’s what’s producing now, from white tubes tipped with cutbait on the ice to nymphs and streamers in late-winter river water.

Montana Ice Fishing Reports Montana Fishing Reports Montana Tourney Trail

Bitterroot Lake Ice Update (Feb. 27, 2026): 4–5 Inches at North Access, Open Water at Reeds & South Ramp — No Machines

Feb-27-26 by Angela Montana

Bitterroot Lake ice has shrunk significantly with warm weather and wind. The north end county access is now 4–5 inches, the reeds are open water, and the south end boat access has open water at the ramp. No machines. Mandatory check-in at the Hilltop Hitching Post.

Don Wilkins Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Fort Peck Rock Creek Ice Update: Rapid Deterioration After Warm, Windy Days—Use Extreme Caution

Feb-27-26 by Angela Montana

Rock Creek ice briefly improved with last week’s colder weather, but recent warmth and wind have quickly degraded conditions. With no real cold ahead, the ice season is wrapping up—use extreme caution even on foot, as shifting ice and soft shorelines are increasing risk.

Montana Fishing Reports

Bitterroot River Fishing Report (Feb 25, 2026): Late-Winter Flows, Best Nymphs, Midges & Streamer Tips

Feb-26-26 by Angela Montana

Grizzly Hackle’s boots-on-the-ground Bitterroot River report for Feb. 25, 2026: clear, stable flows; trout holding deep; nymphing still king with heavy stones, worms, and flashy perdigons. Expect afternoon midges on warmer days, selective dry-fly opportunities in flat water, and streamer eats on natural colors. Plus: spring-hatch countdown and a floaters-beware heads-up for downed trees.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Yellowstone River Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Cold Water, Sluggish Fish, Best Nymph & Streamer Tips + Fly List

Feb-25-26 by Angela Montana

Ice and slush have mostly melted, but the Yellowstone River is still very cold and fish are sluggish. Nymphing is the most effective approach right now; if you throw streamers, plan on a slow-motion strip or swing. Watch for spotty midge hatches depending on wind, and pay close attention to forecasts, wind, and potential ice shelves at ramps. Current flow: 1,260 CFS. Full fly pattern list included.

Montana Fishing Reports

Missouri River Below Holter Dam Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Winter Bite, Flows & What’s Working

Feb-24-26 by Angela Montana

It’s a deep-freeze on the Missouri River below Holter Dam, but the fishing has stayed surprisingly solid for anglers willing to layer up and work for it. Here’s the latest from Yellow Dog Flyfishing, including a flow update and what’s been producing.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Tongue River Marina Ice Report (Feb. 20): Open Water Near Campers Point & Possible Hidden Weak Ice

Feb-23-26 by Angela Montana

Feb. 20 update: Open water is visible near Campers Point South (from the road) and reported off Campers Point North by the pond. Warm temps, wind, and snow cover may be creating hidden weak spots and thin-ice “bridges”—use extreme caution.

Montana Ice Fishing Reports Montana Fishing Reports

Hell Creek Marina Ice Report (Feb. 22, 2026): SxS OK to Lucky Point, 4-Wheelers to Johnson; Main Lake Open

Feb-23-26 by Angela Montana

Hell Creek Marina’s Feb. 22, 2026 ice update says a cold snap improved conditions: SxS are reported good to Lucky Point, 4-wheelers from Lucky Point to Johnson, with questionable ice beyond Johnson. The main lake is reported open—watch for changing conditions.

Montana Ice Fishing Reports FWP Montana Fishing Reports

Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report (Feb. 23, 2026): Final Winter Update + Urgent Ice Safety Warning as Canyon Ferry Opens Up

Feb-23-26 by Angela Montana

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.

Montana Fishing Reports

NW Montana Fishing Report (Feb. 21, 2026): Cold Snap Builds Safe Ice, Bigger Lakes Finally Open

Feb-23-26 by Angela Montana

Last week’s extreme cold and heavy snow dramatically thickened ice across NW Montana, opening up access to some larger lakes. With a warmer, wetter 7-day forecast (highs in the low 40s, lows near 30, possible rain), conditions could change fast—plan carefully and stay current on ice safety.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Fly Fishing

Montana Late-Winter Fly Fishing Report & Forecast 2026: Stable Flows, Clear Water, Active Trout on the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone & Missouri

Feb-21-26 by Angela Montana

Montana’s late-winter fly fishing has been unusually steady in 2026, with mild temperatures keeping conditions stable. Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters reports solid clarity, consistent flows, and trout feeding more predictably than typical for this time of year—especially on subsurface presentations.

Montana Ice Fishing Reports Montana Fishing Reports

NW Montana Ice & Fishing Report (Feb. 20, 2026): Where Ice Is Still Holding, Where It’s Sketchy, and What’s Biting

Feb-20-26 by Angela Montana

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.

Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Fort Peck Lake Ice Update: Main Lake Re-Capped Overnight—Marina Says It’s “Absolutely Not” Safe to Fish

Feb-20-26 by Angela Montana

After last night’s refreeze, Fort Peck Lake’s main lake has capped over again—but Fort Peck Marina says it’s “ABSOLUTELY not” safe to fish. Read the latest observations and safety guidance before you head out.

Don Wilkins Montana Fishing Reports Montana Ice Fishing Reports

Fort Peck Ice Conditions Near the Dam (Feb. 19, 2026): Don Wilkins Checks the Main Channel and Surrounding Areas

Feb-20-26 by Angela Montana

With questions swirling from anglers, Don Wilkins went out to verify current ice conditions near the Fort Peck Dam. He checked the main channel and surrounding areas firsthand to give a clearer picture of what’s out there right now.

Montana Tourney Trail Mack Days Montana Tourney Trail

2026 Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake: Dates, Prizes, Rules, Fish Pickup Sites & Conservation Goals

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

Mack Days returns to Flathead Lake March 12–May 9, 2026, giving anglers nine weeks to target non-native lake trout while supporting conservation of native bull trout and westslope cutthroat. Get the key dates, prize details, entry rules, fish drop-off locations, and important release and fish ID requirements.

Montana Ice Fishing Reports Montana Fishing Reports Montana Tourney Trail

Bitterroot Lake Ice Update (Feb. 27, 2026): 4–5 Inches at North Access, Open Water at Reeds & South Ramp — No Machines

Feb-27-26 by Angela Montana

Bitterroot Lake ice has shrunk significantly with warm weather and wind. The north end county access is now 4–5 inches, the reeds are open water, and the south end boat access has open water at the ramp. No machines. Mandatory check-in at the Hilltop Hitching Post.

Montana Fishing Tournaments Montana Tourney Trail

2026 Fort Peck Tournament of Kings (Montana): Dates, Entry Fee, $10K Daily Payouts + Random Weight Salmon Pots

Feb-26-26 by Angela Montana

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.

View More Tournament Results

Outdoor How-To

Forget Ice Cleats? Here’s How to Make Them Yourself!

Feb-15-26 by Angela Montana

Stop Believing Those Winter Fly Fishing Myths

Jan-09-26 by Angela Montana

How To Set a Simple Field Goose Spread with Big Results

Jan-08-26 by Angela Montana More How-To read_more

MT Wildlife

Why Idaho Killed 82 Mule Deer Found Inside a Captive Elk Facility (CWD Risk Explained)

Mar-03-26 by Angela Montana Mule Deer wildlife

Idaho Fish and Game lethally removed 82 wild mule deer after they slipped into a captive elk facility in GMU 60A during the 2025 season. With no reliable live test for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and wild deer unable to legally remain in captivity, officials say removal and testing was the most responsible option to reduce the risk of potential disease spread—despite no elk at the facility testing positive.

Mountain Lions Can Roam Shockingly Far: One Traveled From South Dakota’s Black Hills to Connecticut

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana wildlife

Most mountain lions stay within a home range—but documented dispersals show some can go far beyond what most people imagine. One young tom’s journey from South Dakota’s Black Hills to Connecticut topped 1,500 miles, and GPS studies have captured other long treks, including a female that logged close to 1,000 miles across multiple western states.

Video: Coyote Chases 3-Year-Old Through Front Gate in Pasadena—Mom’s Scream Sends It Running

Feb-26-26 by Angela Montana Hunt in Montana wildlife

A coyote was captured on camera chasing a 3-year-old boy through the front gate of his Pasadena home—until his mom’s scream from inside the yard sent the animal the other way. It’s a stark reminder that wildlife awareness isn’t just for the backcountry; sometimes it starts right in the front yard.

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Viral Stories

DIY Ice Fishing Hole Cover Hack: Warmer Feet in an Ice Shelter (Clam X600 Setup)

Dec-21-25 by Angela Montana

Minnesota angler Beau Rochel shared a simple DIY multi-hole cover for a Clam X600 ice shelter to help keep feet warmer while fishing. Here’s the basic idea, materials mentioned, and an easy foam-tile alternative that’s becoming a trend for overnight shack anglers.

Massive Elk Herd Roams Through Colorado Neighborhood Yards, Stuns Mom and Daughter

Dec-19-25 by Angela Montana

A mom and daughter in Colorado were stunned when a massive elk herd took over their neighborhood yards. The same elk have also been seen along a nearby highway and even shutting down a local golf course—another reminder that in elk country, wildlife can show up anywhere.

Helena’s Team Grey Bull Lands $500K+ at Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Tournament With 398-Pound Black Marlin

Nov-05-25 by montanaoutdoor

A six-man crew from Helena, Montana, took home more than half a million dollars at Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Team Grey Bull beat out a packed field to place third in the Billfish Division after landing a 398-pound black marlin.

Rare Video: Wolverine Hunting a Deer Near Ajax Mountain, Montana (2017)

Oct-19-25 by Angela Montana

Shot over the 4th of July weekend in 2017 near Ajax Mountain, Montana, this rare clip captures a wolverine in action. Wolverines are famously elusive in the Lower 48—only about 300 are thought to remain—and can travel 18–20 miles in a single day.

Bear, an AKC Anatolian Shepherd, Heads From Montana to South Africa for Livestock Guardian Dog Program

Aug-15-25 by Angela Montana

Wild Rooster Farm’s Bear, an AKC purebred Anatolian Shepherd from Kalispell, Montana, is set to travel to South Africa to join the Cheetah Outreach Trust as a breeding stud in its Livestock Guardian Dog program—aimed at protecting livestock while supporting cheetah conservation.

Montana FWP

Montana FWP’s Spring Electrofishing on 7 Rivers: What Anglers Need to Know About Tagged Trout (and Rewards)

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

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.

Montana Wolf Harvest Update: 241 Taken So Far (Out of 452) — Regional Breakdown, Open Units, and Season Dates

Mar-02-26 by Angela Montana

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.

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Wild Game Recipes

Grilled Bison (or Elk) Tri-Tip With Bell Pepper Chimichurri: Kokanee Quinn’s Flavor-Packed Recipe

Feb-28-26 by Angela Montana Hunt in Montana Kokanee Quinn Recipes

Fire up the grill for Kokanee Quinn’s bison (or elk) tri-tip topped with a bright red bell pepper chimichurri—parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon, and a touch of heat. Simple prep, big wild-game payoff.

Venison Sausage Stuffed Pancakes (Easy Breakfast Recipe from Kokanee Quinn)

Feb-21-26 by Angela Montana Kokanee Quinn Recipes

These venison breakfast sausage stuffed pancakes—credited to Jenn Homa and shared by Kokanee Quinn—deliver a sweet-and-salty, handheld breakfast that’s perfect for cold mornings, early alarms, and everything from rut-chasing to couch lounging.

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