VOL. 14 · NO. 25 June 17, 2026 · Bozeman, MT LIVE · 6 RIVERS TRACKED · TOURNAMENTS THIS WEEK
THE WIRE
FISHINGExperience Montana’s Free Fishing Days This Father’s DayJun 17 FISHINGMastering Fly Selection: The Rock Method for Trout FishingJun 17 HUNTINGCan Arkansas Hunters Really Prepare for a Montana Spring Bear Hunt? Deadhaul…Jun 17 CONSERVATIONBeavers Rewilded 12,000 Montana Wetland Acres Better Than Anyone ExpectedJun 17 HUNTINGWildlife Policy Battle: Sportsmen Defend Hunting TraditionsJun 17
Warrior Boats

Father’s Day Fishing: Austin Lee Lands 35-Pound, 50-Inch Northern Pike at Canyon Ferry

Austin Lee battled a massive northern pike for more than an hour at Canyon Ferry, landing a 35-pound, 50-inch fish—just 2.5 pounds shy of Montana’s long-standing state record.

Austin Lee knew the second the fish hit his line at Canyon Ferry—it wasn’t just big, it had to be the biggest fish he had ever hooked in his life. After more than an hour-long battle, he hauled in a monster northern pike that weighed 35 pounds and measured 50 inches.

Now, Austin isn’t exactly a small guy—6’1”, 225 pounds—but this fish made him look like the sidekick in his own fishing story. To put it in perspective, it was just 2.5 pounds shy of Montana’s state record, set back in 1971 by Lance Moyer at Tongue River Reservoir. That is record book close!

Austin’s catch turned into an unforgettable Father’s Day memory. One big fish, one long fight, and one amazing story to tell for the rest of his life.

Well done. That’s one fish story that doesn’t need any exaggeration!


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