Montana Fishing Information

Montana fishing is legendary with fishermen from all over arriving here to experience the fabulous blue-ribbon trout streams and rivers and enjoy the beautiful sparkling mountain lakes.

Overview of Location

Fishing in Montana gives such pleasure, with the major rivers and tributaries, the mountain lakes and beautiful reservoirs providing an abundance of opportunities for those trophy catches.

Type of waterways

The great rivers of the Madison, Missouri, Big Hole and Yellowstone get their waters from the snowmelt and the trickling streams flowing from the mountains in Montana, thus the state is known as the headwaters state. The natural lakes like Flathead Lake and the reservoirs such as Hebgen and Fort Peck offer fishing that surpasses expectations. Wading and boating are popular in the waters of Montana, and you’ll find whatever method is best for you depending on where you go.

Fishing seasons

Angling is available the year round on Montana’s lakes and the larger rivers, although small tributaries are generally closed in winter. Spring run-off creates high and muddy waters from May to late June, so fishermen can enjoy excellent fishing on some of the smaller streams during this period. Late June through to October is great for fly-fishing.

Most common fish species

On Montana lakes, you’ll catch lake and rainbow trout as well as pike, bass and whitefish. On rivers and mountain streams, you’ll pull in large rainbow, cutthroat and golden trout.

Popular Fishing Areas in Montana

In southwest Montana, the most famous rivers for great fishing are the Blackfoot, Beaverhead, Bitterroot and Big Hole Rivers. Rock Creek provides some superb fishing for the wader. Lakes include Georgetown Lake and Clark Canyon Reservoir.

Southern Montana boasts the most famous fishing spots along the Madison, Yellowstone and Bighorn Rivers. The Gallatin River is also a prime fishing location. Hebgen Lake and Quake Lake are also popular fishing destinations.

In the northwest, you’ll discover some wild rivers in gorgeous scenery, such as the Flathead River and the Middle Fork Flathead River. Lakes include the Whitefish, Swan and Flathead Lakes.

Some great fishing can be found in central Montana on Holter Lake and Willow Creek Reservoir.

Hiring a Montana fishing guide has proven to be most beneficial for those who want an ideal fishing vacation with a trophy-sized catch. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable about the best places to go, and know all the tricks to get those pesky fish to bite.