Montana’s Top 10 Fisheries

Montana offers some incredible fishing opportunities with its pristine rivers, lakes, and streams. The top 10 places to fish in Montana, based on their popularity and the variety of fish species available, include:

1. Flathead Lake: Montana's largest freshwater lake, it's known for its trophy-sized lake trout, cutthroat trout, and whitefish.

2. Yellowstone River: This iconic river is famous for its excellent fly-fishing and abundant trout, including rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout.

3. Gallatin River: Located near Bozeman, it's a blue-ribbon trout stream, especially for rainbow and brown trout.

4. Bighorn River: Known for its high fish population, it's an ideal spot for fly-fishing for rainbow and brown trout.

5. Missouri River: Offers great fishing for rainbow and brown trout, as well as walleye, catfish, and northern pike.

6. Rock Creek: This smaller stream in western Montana is famous for its cutthroat and rainbow trout.

7. Clark Fork River: A major river with good access points and great fishing for cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout.

8. Madison River: Renowned for its blue-ribbon fly-fishing, you'll find healthy populations of brown and rainbow trout.

9. Ruby River: Located in southwest Montana, it's a less crowded but excellent option for brown and rainbow trout.

10. Stillwater River: This beautiful stream is known for its wild trout, including rainbow and cutthroat trout.

Remember to check the fishing regulations, obtain the necessary permits, and practice catch-and-release when necessary to help conserve Montana's incredible fisheries. Also, keep in mind that fishing conditions can change seasonally, so it's a good idea to contact local outfitters or the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks department for the latest information.