Canyon Ferry Lake

Canyon Ferry Reservoir and Lake is a popular fishing, boating, and camping area created with the construction of Canyon Ferry Dam across the Missouri River, 90 miles northwest of Bozeman, Montana.

  • Canyon Ferry is the third largest body of water in Montana, covering 35,181 surface acres.
  • Canyon Ferry Lake is stocked yearly with rainbow trout.
  • Other species include brown trout, burbot, ling, and Yellow Perch.
  • What really excites fishermen at Canyon Ferry is its walleyes, best caught with crawlers and jigs.

Canyon Ferry is the third largest body of water in Montana, covering 35,181 surface acres. Since the completion of Canyon Ferry Dam in 1954, the reservoir has been used not only for fishing and other water-related recreation, but also for electricity and irrigation.

Located close to Bozeman, Montana and just fifteen miles from Montana’s capital, Helena, Canyon Ferry Reservoir and Lake is a popular year-round recreation destination for those who love boating, fishing, wind surfing, water skiing and other related outdoor fun.

Best Place to Fish

Anglers will have luck in quiet spots near land, the dam, as well as out on the lake. Canyon Ferry Lake is stocked each year with rainbow trout. Other species fished for include brown trout, burbot, ling, and Yellow Perch. But for many of the locals, what really excites anglers at Canyon Ferry is its walleyes, best caught with crawlers and jigs.

Best Time to Fish

Early spring usually results in productive shore fishing for rainbow trout, but as the water warms up, anglers should fish from a boat to access larger fish tending to swim deeper.

For out of state anglers and locals alike who want to try lake fishing, Canyon Ferry is an excellent choice. Consider checking out some of the area fishing and guide outfitters listed here as well as the local marinas and lodging options during the main service season, May through October.

Directions

Canyon Ferry Dam and Visitor Center is at the north end of the lake. Canyon Ferry Lake is located east of Highway 12-287 between Helena and Townsend. From Helena, take Highway 12/287 past East Helena and to the intersection of Highways 12/287 and 284. Turn onto Highway 284 and continue about 8 miles on Highway 284. After crossing the dam, continue about a mile to the Visitor Center. There are many designated access site surrounding the lake including boat launches.

For More Information

Canyon Ferry Field Office
7700 Canyon Ferry Road
Helena, MT 59602
(406) 475-3921

View the local providers:

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