Jun 17, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Can Arkansas Hunters Really Prepare for a Montana Spring Bear Hunt? Deadhaul Outdoors Finds Out
Arkansas hunters attempt to get ready for a brutal Montana spring bear hunt. Here's why the mountains don't care how hard you trained.
Jun 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Wildlife Policy Battle: Sportsmen Defend Hunting Traditions
Wildlife policy is increasingly determined by ballot measures, with sportsmen defending hunting rights after Colorado's Proposition 127 failed. A new initiative, Prop 302, aims to constitutionally secure hunting and fishing rights in Colorado, preventing anti-hunting legislation. This follows trends in 24 states that have enacted similar protections, reflecting a growing movement to safeguard outdoor traditions.
Jun 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Hilarious Tips for First-Time Hunting Adventures
The post humorously depicts the challenges of first-time hunting, contrasting romantic notions with harsh realities. It highlights the confusion and anxiety rookies face in the woods, suggesting a lighthearted video guide that teaches seven essential hand signals to enhance communication and minimize errors, improving the overall hunting experience.
Jun 11, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana Online Registration for Game Damage Hunts Opens June 15
Starting June 15, Montana hunters can register online for the annual Game Damage Hunt Roster through MyFWP, aimed at curbing damage from deer, elk, and antelope. Registration runs until July 15, with an additional roster for bison. Hunters must choose one district and may not be guaranteed a hunting opportunity.
Jun 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
How to Properly Acclimate for High-Altitude Climbing
Climbers face severe risks in the "death zone" of Everest, at 26,000 feet, where thin air makes survival difficult. Altitude sickness can lead to serious health issues when the body cannot adapt quickly enough. Acclimatization and a gradual climb are essential, as even experienced climbers are not immune to its dangers.
Jun 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
NOTICE OF SPRING BLACK BEAR CLOSURE BMUs 300, 301, 319, 580
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has announced that hunting districts 300, 301, 319, and 580 will close for all black bear hunting due to exceeding a 37% female harvest. The closure will take effect one-half hour after sunset on June 3, 2026.
Jun 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Oregon Might Go Full Vegan (Legally Speaking)
Oregon is facing a significant cultural clash over Initiative Petition 28 (IP28), known as the "PEACE Act." Animal rights activists aim to ban hunting, fishing, and livestock ranching, classifying standard practices as criminal offenses. Critics argue it could harm conservation efforts and disproportionately impact local communities. The initiative, despite its ambitions, likely faces defeat in November.
May 30, 2026 · Kamp Cook
Montana Outdoor Podcast – FWP Director Christy Clark Talks Corner Crossing
This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with the Director of Montana Fish, Wildlife and […]
May 29, 2026 · Angela Montana
The End of the Casual Drive-Thru Whitetail: Why Region 6 Just Placed a Deadline on Your Fall Plans
For years, hunting antlerless white-tailed deer in Montana’s Region 6 followed a familiar, comfortable rhythm. You’d pack your gear, drive […]
May 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Body Found in Flathead Lake Near Bigfork
The waters of Flathead Lake are usually where we go to find a piece of ourselves—to catch a rising trout, […]
May 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Largest Expansion of Outdoor Access in US History
The Department of the Interior has announced the largest expansion of outdoor access in U.S. history, providing 1,450 new hunting and fishing opportunities across 32 states, covering 92 million acres of public land. This change simplifies access through a new “open unless closed” policy, benefiting both sportsmen and rural economies.
May 26, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Fall moisture, mild winter fuel increases in observed mule deer across southeast MT
Wildlife biologists recently completed mule deer aerial spring surveys across southeast Montana’s Region 7, and for the third straight year the total number of observed mule deer and overall densities have increased.
May 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Catching Memorial Day Memories
The Fort Peck Headquarters got some VIP company over the holiday weekend. Kelsey—daughter of the Captain himself—and her boyfriend, Chris […]
May 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
Western Montana Fly Fishing Report – Week of May 19, 2026 | Lightweight Fly Shop
Western Montana's rivers experience high-water conditions from May 19–25, 2026. While improvements are noted, anglers should focus on slow water areas between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. The Bitterroot River is highlighted for its fishable channels, but caution is necessary due to debris. Subsurface techniques, particularly heavy nymphs and streamers, are most effective.
May 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Surviving the Storm: A Moose Hunting Adventure
Talk about a hunting trip turning into a literal wash. In this vintage survival tale by Jerry Valentine (as told […]
May 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Have opinions on fishing? FWP wants your two cents.
Montana FWP is seeking public input on the 2027–2028 fishing regulations, featuring 41 proposals. Anglers can participate by attending a meeting on May 13, joining online sessions on May 26, or submitting comments via email or mail before the May 31 deadline. Share your insights to influence fishing rules.
May 6, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Tick Season Peaks Right Now — Are You Protected?
Tick season is peaking across Montana right now. Here's what hunters, anglers, and hikers need to know to stay safe this May.
May 5, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Texas man sentenced for trafficking eagles
Co-defendant Simon Paul, Branson, and others, hunted and killed eagles on the Flathead Indian Reservation and elsewhere. In total, approximately 3,600 birds were killed, including eagles. They then illegally sold the eagles on the black market for significant sums of cash across the United States and elsewhere.
May 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Missouri River: May 2026 Status Report
May fishing on the Mo favors afternoon outings with clear, low waters. Focus on dry flies for caddis hatches and use stealth, precision, and simple subsurface patterns for success.
May 4, 2026 · Angela Montana
2026 Elk Hunting Changes in Region 1
Region 1 hunters face new rules for antlerless elk: B-Tags are now private-land only, PTHFV permits no longer cover antlerless elk, and archery hunting for cow elk is discontinued to reduce harvest pressure.
Apr 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Your Chance for a $20K Elk Hunt for $100: Limited 300 Spots!
Ryze Outdoor Co offers a premium guided elk hunt in Utah, limiting entries to 300 for better odds, with a ticket price of $100. The hunt promises exclusive accommodations and expert support.
Apr 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Missed the draw? Montana’s nonresident backup list opens May 1
Montana’s Nonresident Alternate’s List opens for a second chance at hunting tags from May 1 to June 1. Join for free, with no risk to preference points, and wait for possible openings.
Apr 23, 2026 · Angela Montana
The “Upgraded Childhood” Comfort Bowl: Smoked Fish Mac ’n Cheese
The Smoked Fish Mac recipe transforms childhood comfort food into an adult gourmet dish, combining smoked fish, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy topping, perfect for cold weather and easy preparation.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
California Doubles Down: Why Hunters Are Getting a Second Shot at Black Bears
California has approved a new amendment allowing bear hunters to obtain two black bear tags annually, responding to a growing bear population and missed harvest quotas, enhancing wildlife management efforts.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Carson Bender: Successful Turkey Caller, Accidental Bobcat Whisperer
Carson Bender’s expert calling lured a bobcat instead of a bird, leaving him with shoulder scratches and a wild story before missing a turkey and heading to the doctor’s office.
Apr 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Series of Montana poaching crimes leads to lifetime loss of hunting and fishing privileges for Tennessee man
Apr 21, 2026 3:54 PM HAMILTON– Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens report that Jerry “Trey” Truitt III of Tennessee […]
Apr 21, 2026 · Angela Montana
A Montana Pheasant Hunt Turned Grizzly
Imagine waking up thinking about bagging a few pheasants and ending the day with 320 stitches and a crazy story […]
Apr 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Old-School Gear vs. Modern Tech: A Showdown
The Day Modern Tech Met Old-School Iron In the battle between the 21st century’s most advanced communication tool and a […]
Apr 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
From Endangered to Managed: Wolves in the U.S. and Their Evolving Status
Wolf management in North America exhibits a split: Western states lead while the Great Lakes region remains federally protected. The Boone and Crockett Club advocates for data-driven, ethical management to ensure local control and sustainable conservation.
Apr 16, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Best Magazine to Choose for Hunting Rifles
Choosing the right magazine for a hunting rifle is crucial for reliability and handling. Different types, like internal, detachable, and rotary magazines, serve specific purposes. Key considerations include capacity, feeding performance, material quality, compatibility, and maintenance to enhance performance during hunts.
Apr 16, 2026 · Angela Montana
Montana FWP Draw Results: Check Your Deer and Elk Permits
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released the results for deer, elk, and nonresident combination licenses. Hunters can check results online or by phone, with upcoming application deadlines approaching.
Apr 14, 2026 · Angela Montana
Spring Woods Stereotypes: The 4 Faces of Turkey Season
From old-school purists to aggressive stalkers, spring turkey season brings out every type of hunter. Discover the four distinct archetypes you'll encounter in the timber and how they fill tags.
Apr 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Heavier Metal: The 2026 Guide to Not Missing That Tom
Outdoor Life’s Alex Robinson reveals that while pricey TSS loads dominate at 60 yards, "the shooter is almost always the weakest part" and high-tech ammo can't replace old-fashioned woodsmanship.
Apr 11, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Montana U.S. Senator Sheehy makes an emergency landing in Madison County
The Madison County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an emergency aircraft landing this afternoon involving a privately-operated plane […]
Apr 9, 2026 · Moosetrack Megan
Biologists observe leks to estimate bird populations
Mountain grouse males, such as the dusky grouse, ruffed grouse and spruce grouse, perform their breeding displays in forested areas, usually on their own or in small groups, and aren’t really “leks” per se.
Apr 8, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Federal Lead Ammo Bill: What Montana Bear and Elk Hunters Need to Know
A new federal bill protects lead ammo on BLM and Forest Service land — here's what it means for Montana hunters this spring and beyond.
Apr 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Wednesday Morning Marmot: Why We’re All Just Large Rodents in Business Casual
We’ve all been there. It’s 9:01 AM on a Monday…or a Wednesday, appropriately. You have your coffee in one hand […]
Apr 7, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
How to Judge a Bear’s Weight Before You Pull the Trigger
Montana's spring bear season opens April 15. Here's how to field-judge a bear's weight and age before you pull the trigger.
Apr 3, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Wisconsin Hunter Lost 10 Years: What Montana Poaching Actually Costs
A Wisconsin man just lost 10 years of Montana hunting privileges. Here's exactly what triggers long-term bans — and what every hunter must know right now.
Apr 3, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
14 Bear Encounters in the Bitterroot: One DIY Hunter’s Hard-Earned Spring Tag
A DIY hunter logs 14 bear encounters in Montana's Bitterroot Valley before finally closing the deal. Here's why this one's worth your time.
Apr 3, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Draw Results 2026: Exact Dates by Species
FWP posts elk, deer, antelope, sheep, moose & bison results on different dates. Here are the exact 2026 dates — plus what to do the moment results drop.
Mar 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Gone but Not Forgotten: A NW Montana Hunter’s Final Trophy
Tom Welch clears the air on a legendary Northwest Montana whitetail. This "buck of a lifetime" carries a tragic weight, as the hunter passed away the same night he harvested it.
Mar 29, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Six Wolves vs. One Grizzly: Who Really Wins in Montana?
Spring bear season opens April 15. Here's what science and trail cam footage reveal about wolf-grizzly showdowns — and what it means for your safety this spring.
Mar 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Sage Grouse Lawsuits Stack Up — What Montana Upland Hunters Need to Know Right Now
Legal battles threaten sage grouse habitat and hunting access across Montana's eastern prairie. What upland bird hunters need to know now.
Mar 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
How to Age a Black Bear in the Field: Montana 2026 Guide
Montana's spring bear season is almost here. Learn how to age black bears on the hoof before you pull the trigger this spring.
Mar 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Bozeman ‘No Kings’ Protest Packs Streets: What Montana Hunters Must Do Now
Bozeman's 'No Kings' protest drew massive crowds over public lands fears. Here's what it means for your elk, deer, and upland access this fall.
Mar 28, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Idaho Fish & Game Commissioner Faces 7 Hunting Charges: What Montana Hunters Need to Know
An Idaho Fish and Game commissioner faces 7 criminal hunting charges. Here's why Montana hunters should be paying close attention right now.
Mar 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fishing Strategy Insights from March 25, 2026 by Fins and Feathers
Trout are currently inactive in fast currents, preferring calm areas. Successful fishing requires precise, clean drifts with deeper nymphs and smaller streamers. Focus on lazy water for better results.
Mar 26, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Ice Out, Turkey Scouts, and FWP Updates: Week of March 26
Discover Montana's late March outdoor transitions: ice breakout fishing, spring turkey scouting, shed hunting tips, and wildlife updates for 2026's best season.
Mar 24, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Foothills Sheds Are Dropping Now: Best Montana Units This Weekend
Warm March temps are dropping elk and mule deer sheds early across Montana. Here's exactly where to look this weekend before the window closes.