Montana offers many different types of fishing opportunities, from fly fishing, drift boat fishing, trolling on open water, shore fishing, to salmon snagging in some areas.
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What is the best month to fly fish in Montana?
Mid June-early July This is a very popular time because the weather is good, the fishing is consistent, and big trout are still easy to fool. These dates tend to go faster than others as a result.
Is the Kootenai River good for fishing?
Beautiful scenery, great fishing! The Kootenai River begins in British Columbia and flows through northwest Montana and Libby. “It is one of the west’s premier dry fly trout rivers,” says Libby fly-fishing guide and river expert, Dave Blackburn who owns and operates Kootenai Angler.
Where is the best fly fishing in Montana?
- 1) The Yellowstone River. The Yellowstone River has always had a special place in our hearts and we without a doubt consider it the best river to fly fish in Montana.
- 2) The Missouri River.
- 3) The Madison River.
- 4) The Blackfoot River.
- 5) The Bighorn River.
What kind of fish are in the Kootenai River?
Anglers can find rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, bull trout, brook trout and mountain whitefish. About 20 miles east into Montana is the Kootenai Falls, one of the largest undammed waterfalls in the Northwest.
What time of year is best for trout fishing in Montana?
Winter (November – March) We fish year round here in Montana. What we look for is a day that is not too windy and air temperatures above 32 degrees. You want to concentrate on the warmest part of the day, such as 10am-2pm, when the trout are most active this time of year.
Can you fly fish in Montana in March?
March fly fishing in Montana is early season spring fishing at its finest. Our rivers are empty, trout are hungry, weather is cool, and the fly fishing can be outstanding. Anglers interested in Montana fly fishing trips during the month of March will enjoy our Spring Special Trips.
Are there salmon in the Kootenai River?

Can you float the Kootenai River?
The Kootenai River, due to its sheer size, is a river that’s best float fished, particularly during the summer. Anyone wading the Kootenai River must also deal with the variable flows of the Kootenai itselfโthe unannounced and frequent releases from Libby Dam often quickly raise water levels and increase the flow rate.
What kind of fish are in the Yaak River Montana?
The Yaak River is a fine river to fly fish. The Yaak offers up average sized rainbows, cutthroats and a healthy population of larger brook trout. The Yaak River region is very isolated.
Do you need a guide to fly fish in Montana?
However, if you’re planning on fishing new water, or are new to fly fishing, you definitely need a fly fishing guide in Montana. It will make a world of difference. Unlike some states, all guides must be licensed in the State of Montana and must work under the direction of a licensed outfitter as well.
What city in Montana has the best fishing?
Bozeman is one of Montana’s best destinations for outdoor activities. The city has excellent cuisine, vibrant culture, and access to internationally renowned fly-fishing. Within a one-hour drive in the area, you will get to some of the finest trout fisheries in the western part of the country.
Where do people fly fish in Montana?
Yellowstone River Fly Fishing The Yellowstone is Montana’s biggest un-dammed river, making it a cutthroat, rainbow and big brown paradise. From fishing the headwaters in Yellowstone National Park to the big waters near Big Timber this is should be a “must” on every fly fisher’s bucket list.
Are there sturgeon in the Kootenai River?
The Kootenai River population of the white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) was listed as endangered on September 6th, 1994. White sturgeon are found from California to Alaska, and their inland populations, like the Kootenai River population, are landlocked.
Can you kayak Kootenai Falls?
Kootenai Falls and the gorge below are a spectacular big-water paddling run with many lines depending on flows including several waterfalls, a large surf wave, some big-water lines, and some impressive whirlpools. This is all set in a very scenic gorge made all the more impressive by the gleaming blue-green water.
What is Bonners Ferry Idaho known for?
Located in the heart of the Kootenai River Valley, the town of Bonners Ferry serves as a picturesque international gateway to Idaho and hosts visitors from around the world. Surrounded by three mountain ranges, abundant outdoor recreation is just steps away.
How much is an out of state Montana fishing license?
The Montana fishing license cost for a nonresident for an entire season of fishing is $117.50. There are many different fees that contribute to the total cost of the license. See full breakdown of costs below: Conservation License.
Can you fly fish in Montana in November?
November fly fishing in Montana is a bit of a wildcard. The fishing is typically very good, but the weather is unpredictable. The threat of cold weather deters many folks from planning trips in November, but it is a very underutilized month for fishing and should be on the radar of more anglers.
Can you fish in Montana in April?
April is arguably the most diverse month of the fishing season in regards to fishing techniques and hatches. Spring weather in Montana is notoriously fickle and can produce both balmy warm days and blizzard like winter weather.
When can you fish in Montana?
Open third Saturday in May through November 30, unless otherwise specified in Exceptions to Standard Regulations. Open all year, unless otherwise specified in Exceptions to Standard Regulations.
How do you catch Kokanee salmon in Montana?

Is there wild salmon in Montana?
One of two Pacific salmon species in Montana, the chinook salmon, was introduced into Fort Peck Reservoir during the 1980s in an effort to produce a trophy fishery. Like all Pacific salmon species, the chinook dies after spawning.
Are there two Kootenay rivers?
The river becomes significantly larger at its confluence with the Vermilion River, which is actually the larger of the two where they meet near Kootenay Crossing. The Kootenay continues southeast, receiving the Palliser River from the left, and flows south into a gorge at the confluence with the White River.
What river runs through Libby Montana?
The Kootenai River, Libby, Montana. Kootenai River The Kootenai River flows through Libby and Troy and offers Blue Ribbon trout fishing. Scenic Kootenai Falls and Lake Koocanusa Reservoir are two of the many attractions along this mountain river. The Kootenai River near Libby.
Where is the yak in Montana?
The wild Yaak is a rugged and remote landscape in northwestern Montana, deep in the Kootenai National Forest.