Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
With great open spaces and thousands of acres of wilderness occupying the State of Montana, it is no wonder why the nation's fourth largest state is home to some of the finest hunting, fishing and parks in the country. With more heads of cattle than people, Montana is truly a piece of the Old West. But, with the potential glory that comes with hunting for wildlife and fishing in the state also comes the abiding of laws and purchasing of licenses. Sometimes the best way to ensure a positive hunting and fishing experience is to hire an outfitter. Nonetheless, Montana is a special place for all recreationalists's to enjoy.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Listings: (add your listing)
Country West Ranch & Land - We Know Fishing
Experts in high-quality recreational properties for equestrian, hunting, fishing and ranches. Licensed in MT, WY, ID and CO for excellent selection and choices of properties.
(406) 586-9334
Moose in a Fall aspen grove
© Peter Volf Photography
Hunting
Hunters flock to Montana mainly in the fall for elk, pronghorn, pheasants, deer, bear and the occasional mountain lion or bighorn sheep. To hunt for certain wildlife, such as moose, mountain sheep and mountain goat, hunters need to enter special drawings for permits. Nonresidents also need to acquire permits to hunt antelope. Nonresidents with an interest in hunting in Montana should strongly consider a local outfitter for not only the experience and knowledge, but the chances of actually getting lucky.
Some additional interests that are important when it comes to hunting in Montana are obtaining licenses, knowing the hunting season and where hunting is and isn't permitted. Hunting permits can be purchased at many locations throughout the state and vary depending on your hunting scope. Typically, the hunting season starts in late September and concludes near the middle of November. Again, as with permits, seasons vary with each animal and location. Finally, a touchy subject with hunters is the legalities of open hunting areas. Much of Forest Service land is open to hunting. Forest Service maps are good for exploring and becoming familiar with the lay of the land. If in doubt about a particular area, always check with the regulating authorities.
Fishing
Fisherman on River
© Vertical Media
Montana's streams and rivers are famous for their plentiful but wily trout. Though it's possible to fish throughout the year in lakes and large rivers, late June through October are the most popular months for sinking a hook. The state maintains more than 300 fishing access areas across the state. Fishing permits are necessary and vary in price depending on specific circumstances. As with hunting, observe posted closure signs and abide by the law. From cutthroat to bull to brown and brook trout, the waters of Montana are a haven for any angler.
The list of top-notch fishing streams in Montana is quite long, and includes such well-known rivers as Yellowstone, Bighorn, Madison and Big Hole. However, there are an abundance of other streams and rivers that provide ample fishing pleasure. Lake fishing is also popular, mainly in northwestern Montana where Flathead Lake lies.
You don't have to hire a fishing guide or outfitter to find spectacular fishing in Montana, but if you're new to angling or would like to gain more skill as a fly-fisherman, it's a wise choice to enlist the assistance of an outfitter - and there are a lot of them. Also, access to many fishing holes can be an issue, and a local outfitter can usually remove potential hassles that could otherwise put a damper on a quick fishing trip to Montana.
Currently Outside
