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Outdoors

Large section of Flathead Lake north shore closed for seasonal waterfowl production

News from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks KALISPELL — A seasonal closure starts March 1 along a large portion of the north shore of Flathead Lake between Bigfork and Somers to support migrating and nesting birds. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Flathead Waterfowl Production Area (WPA) spans seven miles of shoreline along the north end of Flathead Lake. This federal property closes to public access annually March 1 through July 15 to reduce human disturbances during the breeding, nesting, and brood-rearing period. This closure includes the open beaches along the shoreline of the WPA. Shoreline and offshore habitats are critical for migrating birds to rest and nest. The...


2024 Spring Mack Days one month away

News from CSKT FLATHEAD RESERVATION — Up to $225,000 in cash and prizes sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes will be awarded during the 2024 Spring Mack Days fishing event on Flathead Lake. Nine weeks of lake trout fishing will begin Thursday, March 14, and will end on Saturday...


FWP announces changes to the reservation processes at state parks

News from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will implement changes this year to the reservation process for state park sites. The changes will create more opportunities for recreationists to enjoy state parks and comply with legislation passed by the 20...


Smith River permit deadline is Feb. 14

News from MT Fish, Wildlife and Parks GREAT FALLS — The deadline for Smith River float applications is Wednesday, Feb. 14. The permit drawing will be held on Feb. 22. Permits are required to float the 59-mile section of river between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge and are issued each year through a lo...


Outdoor enthusiasts encouraged to practice safety on ice

News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks HELENA — It took a while to get here, but winter finally hit Montana. That means winter enthusiasts will be heading out to recreate. Whether ice fishing, ice skating, hunting, snowmobiling or just taking a walk, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff remin...


Warm weather, lack of precipitation results in a slow start to winter Warm weather, lack of precipitation results in a slow start to winter

News from the Dept. of Natural Resources and Conservation Service BOZEMAN — “Warm temperatures and lack of precipitation over the last couple months have resulted in a bleak start to the seasonal snowpack in Montana and northern Wyoming river basins,” said Eric Larson, USDA Natural Res...


Apply now for Smith River permits

News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks HELENA — Floaters hoping for a Smith River permit can apply through Feb. 14. However, a few changes are coming this year that applicants should be aware of. Celebrated for its spectacular scenery, remote location and excellent trout fishing, the Smith Riv...


Start your New Year with a First Day Hike Start your New Year with a First Day Hike

News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks HELENA — Kick off the New Year right with a First Day Hike at a state park near you. On Jan. 1, Montana State Parks will host First Day Hikes at Flathead Lake State Park (Wayfarers, West Shore and Lone Pine units), Somers Beach State Park, Missouri Headwater...


$7M allocated to protect Columbia headwaters $7M allocated to protect Columbia headwaters

  News from Western Montana Conservation Commission HELENA – The Western Montana Conservation Commission (WMCC) is proud to announce a groundbreaking initiative aimed at mitigating toxic pollution in the headwaters of the Columbia River Basin. Bolstered by a $7 million grant through the Bipart...


FWP to require field day for youth who take hunter, bowhunter online courses

News from MT fish, Wildlife & Parks HELENA – Starting Jan. 1, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will require Hunter and Bowhunter Education students age 12 to 17 who take the online course to pass an in-person field day. Students in that age group must pass both the online exam and the field ...


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