Winter fishing is more than just sitting in the cold. In Montana, there are many outfitters that provide ice houses, fishing equipment rentals and tips to ensure your time on the ice is safe and successful.
Depending on the weather conditions, by late December or early January, large bodies of water like Nelson Reservoir, Fort Peck Lake, Tongue River Reservoir and Deadman’s Basin freeze over and provide opportunities for ice fishing for lake trout, pike, walleye and more.
In Central Montana, head to Choteau for fishing on Bynum Reservoir and Eureka Lake. There are many other favorite local spots, so ask around town to find out where the fish are biting best!
If you’re new to the sport, head to Lake Elmo State Park in Billings for an accessible ice fishing experience. Castle Rock Live Bait Shop in Southeast Montana offers ice fishing rental packages, complete with equipment you’ll need to fish and stay warm all day.