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
Missoula Chevrolet — APRIL 2024

A Hard Lesson on Hard Water Fishing Etiquette

One careless mistake on the ice turned a perfect fishing day into an $850 vet bill for a Montana ice angler.

We all love a good day on the ice, but nothing ruins it faster than a trip to the emergency vet. For example, a post by Jeff H. in a Montana fishing group revealed a story about his dog that recently found more than just old fishing holes while sniffing around the lake. Instead of a harmless scent trail, she discovered a forgotten treble hook, and things went downhill fast. Blood on the ice, a panicked drive to the vet, and an $850 bill later, this hard-water adventure turned into a hard-learned lesson.

So, if you pack it in, pack it out. No one—human or canine—should have to pay the price for someone else’s laziness. Be a responsible angler, clean up after yourself and keep the ice safe for everyone.

He said his dog actually swallowed most of the blood, but this was his vehicle after the transport.

Bretz RV Below Post