Seasons

In Montana, you can fish year-round, but there are seasonal regulations and water conditions that affect fishing. In general, lakes and larger rivers are open to fishing all year, while smaller tributaries are closed in the winter. Even though spring run-off makes many freestone rivers high and muddy from May until late June, anglers still enjoy good fishing on tailwater fisheries, spring creeks, and some smaller streams. Fly fishers will find most waters in prime condition from late June through October, although March and April can be good before run-off. Winter comes early and stays long in the high country; alpine lake fishing is confined to the summer months. Winter freezes the lakes in December and doesn't let go until March and April. Ice fishing is a popular winter sport.

Use this link to view Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks fishing regulations.