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Send us Fan Mail We've searched for a better hunt across all seven Montana hunting regions. Now we've reached our final stop—and we may have saved one of the most interesting for last! This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale heads into Montana FWP Region 3, covering a huge chunk of southwest Montana, with FWP Wildlife Manager Warren Hansen and Communication and Education Program Manager Morgan Jacobsen. And elk hunters, you might want to sit down when you watch or listen to this one. When Warren added up the minimum elk counts from FWP surveys across Region 3, the number was around 60,000 elk! But before you start loading the truck, there's an important question: How many of those elk can hunters actually get to? Warren has some interesting thoughts about what happened to elk last year—and why it could affect where hunters find them this season. Mule deer hunters also get some encouraging news, although there's one area where the story is very different. Antelope numbers are showing movement in the right direction, too. Then there are the bears. Region 3 experienced what Warren calls an exceptionally high bear-conflict year. Just how unusual was it? Wait until you hear the numbers—and what FWP believes may be contributing to it. Rigger, Warren and Morgan also cover whitetails, CWD, wolves, upland birds, turkeys, Block Management, private-land access, bear safety and some hunting opportunities you may not have considered. After seven regions and thousands of miles across Montana, The Search for a Better Hunt ends in one heck of a place. Watch or listen to this week's Montana Outdoor Podcast and come INSIDE REGION 3! Links: Montana FWP Hunting RegulationsMontana FWP Hunt PlannerMontana FWP Hunting SeasonsMontana FWP Region 3Hunter Access ProgramsBlock ManagementOther Private-Land Hunting OpportunitiesPublic-Land Hunting Opportunities and AccessMontana Upland Game Bird Hunting ForecastMontana FWP Bear Information / Be Bear AwareMontana FWP YouTube ChannelMontana Hunter EducationQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS? Click any of the names below to send them an email! Downrigger DaleWarren HansenMorgan JacobsenTHANKS TO OUR SPONSORS  Superior Hardwoods of MontanaRocky Mountain Truck & Trailer MPORTANT: Hunting regulations, quotas, access rules, closures and other information can change. Always check the current official Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks regulations and information before heading into the field. Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail There are plenty of elk in Montana’s Region 5. So why can they be so darn hard to hunt? That is just one of the surprises Downrigger Dale uncovers in the latest stop in the Montana Outdoor Podcast’s Search for a Better Hunt: 2026 Montana Regional Hunting Forecast. This week Rigger heads to south-central Montana and sits down with longtime Montana FWP Wildlife Biologist Shawn Stewart. And when we say longtime, we mean it. Shawn has been studying wildlife in the Red Lodge and Beartooth area for decades, giving him a remarkable perspective on just how much things have changed. If you hunt mule deer or whitetails, you'll want to hear what Shawn says about where deer numbers are doing well—and where they're struggling. He also explains why simply finding animals may not be the biggest challenge facing hunters in Region 5. Then there are the bears. You've probably heard some of the stories coming out of the Red Lodge area this year. Shawn has spent more than 40 years involved in bear management and research, and he says some of the behavior they're seeing now is very different and VERY CONCERNING from what they've ever experienced in the past. Why? His answer is something everyone who lives, hunts, camps or recreates in bear country needs to hear. And wait until you watch this Podcast and find out what has happened to elk numbers since Shawn conducted his first survey back in the 1970s. The change is astounding—but there's a catch for hunters. Dale and Shawn also cover antelope, pheasants, Hungarian partridge, chukars, turkeys, waterfowl, wolves and even a very unique bighorn sheep opportunity. Region 5 may hold more surprises than any stop we've made so far. You just got to watch this Podcast! Watch or listen to this week's Montana Outdoor Podcast and continue The Search for a Better Hunt! Links: PLAN YOUR REGION 5 HUNT Montana FWP Hunting RegulationsMontana FWP Hunt PlannerHunting SeasonsMontana FWP Region 5Hunter Access ProgramsBlock ManagementPublic-Land Hunting Opportunities and AccessBe Bear AwareBefore hunting black bears, check the current regulations and quota status directly with Montana FWP. As Shawn explains in the podcast, quota status can determine whether hunting remains open in specific areasQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS? Click the names below to send them an email!Downrigger DaleMontana FWP Wildlife Biologist - Shawn StewartTHANKS TO OUR SPONSORS Superior Hardwoods of MontanaRocky Mountain Truck & TrailerIMPORTANT: Regulations, quotas, access rules, closures and other hunting information can change. Always check the current official Montana FWP regulations and information before heading into the field. Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail More elk on the landscape doesn’t automatically mean more elk in the freezer. So what makes the difference?  This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale welcomes FWP Region 2 Access Manager Trenton Heisel for the next stop in **The Search for a Better Hunt**. They explore central-western Montana’s elk country, deer outlook, black bear, mountain grouse opportunities, and the details hunters should check before heading out. Why does the Upper Clark Fork keep coming up in the elk conversation? What should mule deer hunters watch for in their district’s season dates? And how could this year’s berry shortage change what you encounter in bear country? Watch or listen and get the answers!  Then Trenton puts Dale behind the controls of the Montana Hunt Planner—and the conversation becomes a practical lesson in finding a place to hunt. From Block Management maps to access corridors and lesser-known private-land opportunities, they uncover tools that deserve a closer look before your next trip.  You’ll also hear why a simple thank-you can help keep a gate open for the next hunter.  **Watch or listen this week’s Montana Outdoor Podcast before you plan your Region 2 hunt. The opportunity you’re looking for might begin with a map layer you’ve never switched on.** Links: 2026 Region 2 Big-Game Forecast2026 Upland Game Bird ForecastFWP Hunting Regulations and CorrectionsMontana Hunt PlannerHunter Access ProgramsRegion 1 & 2 Block Management Maps, Rules and ContactsOther Private-Land Opportunities, Maps and Rules Public-Land Opportunities and Access CorridorsUpland Game Bird Enhancement Program Access  2026 Region 2 State of the Elk ReportRegion 2 Wildlife Annual Reports and UpdatesHunter-Landowner Stewardship ProgramRigger’s Conversation with Greg Lemon: “It Really is Up to Us! Protect the Hunt QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS? Downrigger Dale [email protected] Trenton Heisel [email protected] THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS Superior Hardwoods of Montana Rocky Mountain Truck & Trailer Check current regulations, quota status, property rules and closures before heading out. The episode’s discussion is a planning resource; the current official rules govern your hunt. Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail When many Montana hunters think about Region 7, they simply think "southeast Montana." But according to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 7 Wildlife Manager Brett Dorak, that huge region may offer more opportunity this fall than many hunters realize.  In this week's Montana Outdoor Podcast, Brett joins your host Downrigger Dale and breaks down where hunters are seeing encouraging population trends, which species are doing especially well, and what regulation changes every hunter should know before heading into the field. And best of all ol’ Rigger pulls out his trusty  Region 7 Hunting District maps and has Brett point the way to where you can find the game you are looking for! You'll hear why Region 7 remains one of Montana's premier destinations for mule deer and pronghorn hunters, what elk hunters can expect this year, and why one game animal may actually surprise you. Brett also shares some valuable tips for gaining hunting access, using Montana's Hunt Planner and Block Management Program more effectively, and where hunters should focus their efforts depending on the species they're after. He also tell us about another Great Lakes wolf that made the long trek to Montana only to find out the grass wasn’t exactly greener on the other side. Whether you're planning your first trip to southeastern Montana or you've hunted Region 7 for years, there are several important updates you won't want to miss and if you click here to watch or here to listen you won’t miss a thing! Links: Questions for Region 7 Wildlife Manager? Just Click Here to send him an email.Questions or ideas for a podcast topic? Your buddy Downrigger Dale would love to hear from you! Click here to send him and email!Montana FWP Hunt Planner https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/plannerMontana Hunting Regulations https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/regulationsMontana Hunt Planner Map https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/planner/mapBlock Management Program https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/access/block-managementHabitat Conservation Lease Program https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/access/habitat-conservation-leaseRegion 7 Information https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/regions/region7MyFWP https://myfwp.mt.gov Please Support Our Sponsors Rocky Mountain Truck & Trailer -  https://rmtte.comSuperior Hardwoods of Montana - https://superior-hardwoods.comSupport the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail What if we told you there are places in Montana's Region 4 where hunters may be looking at 1,000 to 2,000 elk? Yeah…that got our attention too. This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale continues The Search for a Better Hunt with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 4 Wildlife Manager Cory Loecker. And if you're planning to hunt north-central Montana this fall, this is one conversation you'll want to hear before you head out. Region 4 may be one of the most diverse hunting regions in the state. It stretches from the Rocky Mountain Front and Bob Marshall country all the way east toward the Missouri Breaks, with just about every kind of terrain — and game animal — you can imagine. Cory gives us the latest on mule deer, whitetails, pronghorn, black bears, mountain lions, wolves, upland birds and, of course, elk. And that's where things get especially interesting. There are areas where elk numbers are well above management objectives. There are new shoulder-season opportunities. And Cory points to a couple of places where the number of elk may make you seriously reconsider where you're planning to hunt this year. Where are those elk? Just click here to watch or here to listen to find out! You'll also hear about some important mule deer regulation changes, what hunters should know about access, where bird hunting may be especially good, and why a little homework before your hunt could make a very big difference. If Region 4 is anywhere on your hunting radar this fall, click below and hear what the guy who manages the wildlife there has to say before you go. And if you know another hunter headed to Region 4 this season, share this podcast with them. They may owe you one after opening day. Now, time to watch or listen to this great podcast! Links: Questions? Feel free to email this week’s guest, Region 4 Wildlife Manager Cory Loecker Just click here to send him a message.Your Host Downrigger Dale always loves to hear from you. Click here to shoot him and email.FWP's Region 4 hunt Forecast. FWP Statewide Upland Game Bird Season OutlookMontana FWP Hunting RegulationsRegion 4 Hunting InformationBlock Management Program MyFWPHunt Planner  Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail Big timber, rugged mountains and a whitetail buck slipping through the trees. If that sounds like your kind of hunting, this week’s Montana Outdoor Podcast is for you. The Search for a Better Hunt continues as Downrigger Dale welcomes Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 1 Wildlife Manager Neil Anderson for a look at hunting opportunities in Montana’s northwest corner. From deer and elk to black bears, mountain grouse and waterfowl, Neil explains what hunters can expect—and what deserves some extra homework before heading out. Rigger once called this country home, so this conversation comes with a little extra enthusiasm. But there’s plenty here for anyone discovering Region 1 for the first time, too. Whitetails lead the way One of the most encouraging parts of the conversation is Neil’s outlook for white-tailed deer. Several mild winters and good recruitment have him optimistic! Hmm rumor has it hunters just might start seeing more mature bucks! Watch or listen for the details! Mule deer offer a different experience. Neil describes populations as steady to slightly increasing, with deer concentrated in pockets of suitable habitat. He gives some great suggestions on where to find them! Black bears and a patchy berry crop Region 1 is also known for its black bears, but this year’s food supply could affect where hunters find them. Neil describes the huckleberry crop as spotty, with other berry crops struggling in some places as well. Productive berry patches may concentrate bears, while wetter areas near streams and other water sources can become increasingly important. Neil tells you where you’ll find those areas…Odds increased? Check!  The discussion also turns to grizzlies and the importance of preparing for bear encounters. Rigger and Neil cover accessible bear spray, expiration dates, food storage and handling harvested game. Review the FWP bear-safety resources with the link below. Encouraging elk trends—and details worth checking Neil reports encouraging elk calf recruitment in areas where surveys are possible. He also discusses research around Thompson Falls and Noxon indicating gradual population growth over time. Plus he’ll give you the hunting districts that should be the places to start! Bring your bird-hunting plans, too Neil’s gives a great report on mountain grouse from Ruffed, Spruce and Dusky grouse you will get some useful info to help you plan a great grouse hunt. Turkeys provide another opportunity, with Neil describing a growing population and places to look. The conversation also covers pheasants, Hungarian partridge, ducks and geese, including opportunities around Ninepipe, the north shore of Flathead Lake and more! Access, preparation and the people behind the wildlife Neil describes a region with substantial public land, extensive Block Management opportunities and conservation easements helping protect access for future generations. As well as solid info on how to prepare if Region 1 is new to you. There’s more in this episode, including mountain lions, wolves, moose, bighorn sheep and wildlife research. Neil also explains why hunters’ observations matter, particularly in heavily forested country where counting animals from the air can be difficult. And before the conversation ends, there’s an unexpected wildlife story: a coordinated effort to vaccinate hundreds of bats against white-nose syndrome. Oh and he tells a very funny story about some Canadian Monties that were about to site some hunters big time for wandering across the border and hunting in the wrong country, that is until the hunters told Monties that THEY were actually in the wrong country! Oh Canada!! Watch or listen to this week’s Montana Outdoor Podcast for the full Region 1 hunting preview. Come for the hunting information, stay for the stories, and get ready to explore one of Montana’s most beautiful corners. Our thanks to Rocky Mountain Truck and Trailer and Superior Hardwoods of Montana for supporting the Montana Outdoor Podcast.  LINKS: FWP Hunt Planner: Open the interactive hunting mapRegion 1 information and wildlife reports: Visit FWP Region 1Region 1 and 2 Block Management information and maps: Find access information and BMA mapsCurrent hunting regulations: Find regulations by speciesFWP Region 1 Big Game Hunting Forecast: Read the hunting forecastBear-safety video—How to Use Bear Spray: Watch the video linked by FWPBear-safety video—Montana Hunter Safety in Bear Country: Watch the video linked by FWPMore bear-safety information: FWP Bear Aware resourcesChronic wasting disease information and testing: Visit FWP’s CWD resource pageQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?Click here to contact Neil Anderson! To contact your buddy Downrigger Dale, click here! Check current regulations, district boundaries, access requirements and closures before hunting. This interview is a seasonal preview; the current regulations govern your hunt. Please subscribe, like and share the Montana Outdoor Podcast. Your support helps us keep bringing you these conversations from across Montana.  Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail There are fishing tournaments… …and then there's Mack Days. Twice each year, anglers from across Montana—and increasingly from around the country—head to legendary Flathead Lake for one of the most unique fishing tournaments you'll find anywhere. Why? Because Mack Days isn't just about catching fish. It's about helping protect one of Montana's most treasured fisheries while having the chance to win thousands of dollars in cash and prizes. In this special Fall Mack Days edition of the Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale sits down with new Mack Days Tournament Director Joe Santos to explain everything you need to know before the tournament begins. Whether you've fished Mack Days for years or you're thinking about entering for the very first time, when you watch or listen to this episode, you’ll find answers to just about every question you can imagine. You'll learn: Why Mack Days exists and how anglers are helping native bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout.How to register—even after the tournament has started.The many different ways to win cash and prizes.How tagged fish work—including the famous $10,000 fish.The best places to launch your boat.Where to camp during the tournament.How to identify lake trout versus protected bull trout.Tips for staying safe on Flathead Lake during changing fall weather.Where to find fishing maps, instructional videos, and tournament resources.Whether you're hoping to win big, spend time with family on one of the most beautiful lakes in America, or simply enjoy helping conserve one of Montana's most iconic fisheries, Fall Mack Days offers something for everyone. Watch or Listen to the podcast, gather your gear, and we'll see you on Flathead Lake September 10th through November 8th!  Links: Click the links below to get info on most everything Rigger and Joe talked about:Main Webpage for Fall Mack DaysTournament Entry FormRulesEvent PosterPrizesBonus ChartPhoto GalleryFish IdentificationMoviesMapsFishing TipsWeather ResourcesAIS inspection informationState Parks on Flathead LakeBlue Bay CampgroundTo email Joe Santos click here or call him: Cell: (406) 274-0613Office: (406) 883-2888 Ext: 7290Of course, just click here to email your buddy Downrigger Dale Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail Planning a hunt in northeast Montana this fall? Before you decide where to spend your valuable hunting days, hear directly from the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wildlife manager responsible for Region 6. In the first episode of our annual Montana Outdoor Podcast’s Montana Hunting Preview Series, Downrigger Dale sits down with Region 6 Wildlife Manager Scott Thompson to discuss what hunters can expect for the 2026 season. Topics include: • Mule deer numbers continue improving after several difficult years. • Whitetail deer remain below average following EHD outbreaks. • Pronghorn populations are well above average in many districts. • Elk numbers are mixed, with the Bear Paw Mountains remaining one of the brighter spots. • Upland bird hunting looks fair to good, with encouraging signs for pheasants and Hungarian partridge. • Waterfowl success will depend heavily on migration timing and weather. Best of all Scott gives some great recommendations of where you can find all those critters we just listed above. Scott also discusses public access, Block Management, hunter ethics, chronic wasting disease, and why respecting private landowners is more important than ever.  Whether you're a lifelong Montana hunter or planning your first trip, this annual series provides some of the most valuable preseason information available directly from the professionals managing Montana's wildlife. So, what are you waiting for click here to watch or here to listen and get to planning your hunt! Don’t forget This is Episode 1 of our seven-part Montana Hunting Preview Series. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the remaining six regions over the coming weeks. Links: To learn more about Region 6 click here.Click here to read the Northeast Montana Big Game Forecast.For the Upland Game Bird Forecast click here.Click here for interactive map of Region 6 hunting districts.For info about Block Management access in Region 6 click here.Click here to go to the interactive hunt planner map. For Montana Deer, Elk and Antelope (Pronghorn) Regulations click here.Click here for Montana Upland Game Bird Hunting Regulations.For Montana Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations click here.Click Here to learn about the FWP Protect the Hunt Respect Access Program.To watch the Podcast Rigger did with Greg Lemon about that program, click here.Questions for Region 6 Wildlife Manager Scott Thompson? Click here to send Scott an email.Questions, comments or suggestions for Downrigger Dale? Click here to email him.Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail Some battles don't end when the deployment does. For many veterans, coming home is only the beginning of a different fight—one that can't be seen. It's the battle of rediscovering purpose, rebuilding relationships, and finding peace after war. In this powerful episode of the Montana Outdoor Podcast, host Downrigger Dale sits down with Army Veteran Nick Gonzalas, whose journey took him from the streets of Iraq to helping fellow veterans heal through Montana's outdoors, yoga, community, and service. When you click here to watch or here to listen you will hear Nick share his deeply personal story of military service, returning home carrying invisible wounds, and the long road toward healing. Along the way he discovered something unexpected—that helping other veterans find hope became part of his own recovery. Today, through South Side Studio Yoga and his work with veterans, Nick is creating opportunities for others to reconnect with themselves, each other, and the healing power of Montana's wild places. Every veteran that joins his free Yoga Class for Vertrans program also gets the opportunity to take a free guided weeklong trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness. This is an amazing trip for veterans as they pack in by horse and get float out!   This podcast isn't just for veterans. It's for military families. It's for friends trying to understand someone they love. And it's for anyone who believes the outdoors can change lives. Whether you've worn the uniform yourself or simply want to understand what many veterans face after they come home, this is a conversation that will stay with you long after it ends. If you know a veteran or a family member of a veteran who could benefit from hearing Nick's story, please share this episode with them. Sometimes hope begins with a single conversation. Links: South Side Studio Yoga (Nick's organization)Book a Yoga Class with NickVeterans, Here is Your Link For You Free Class with Nick!Let’s Support Nicks Yurt Project! Click and Donate Today!South Side Studio Yoga Instagram pageNick’s YouTube Channel, Come On Veterans Join in Online!Red Willow Learning CenterProject Healing WatersPatrol Base AbbateWater Master RaftsQuestions for Nick? Click here to send him an email!Questions for Downrigger Dale? Click here to send him and email!9Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail Every year, the world's best fly anglers gather to compete in one of the most prestigious events in competitive fly fishing. This year, they aren't heading to Europe or another faraway destination. They're coming here! In just a few weeks, the 2026 World Fly Fishing Championship will bring competitors from around the world to some of the most legendary trout waters in the world known are the Golden Triangle of Fly Fishing which includes Montana's beautiful Hebgen Lake along with famous fisheries in Idaho and Wyoming. This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale visits with World Fly Fishing Championship organizer Glade Gunther and Team USA veteran Devin Olsen to learn what makes this event so special, how Team USA prepares to compete against the world's best, and why so many international anglers dream of fishing the waters we sometimes take for granted. When you watch or listen you'll learn how these competitions actually work (WAY different than a typical fishing tournament), why catching one extra fish can mean the difference between winning a gold, silver or bronze medal or going home empty-handed, and some of the fascinating techniques the competitors use that most everyday anglers have never seen. You'll also discover why fly anglers from Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa and beyond are excited to experience the incredible fisheries of Montana, Idaho and Wyoming, and why Team USA believes this could be one of its best opportunities yet to bring home a World Championship and gold medal on home waters. DO NOT miss this podcast it is SUPER interesting! Click here watch or listen! Links: To learn more about Team USA Fly Fishing click here to see the website and here to check out their Facebook Page. We will add more info as we get closer to when the competition kicks off. Or check back to MontanaOutdoor.com.Our guest Glade is looking for folks that would like to bring their boat to Hebgen Lake near West Yellowstone to help take these competitors from all over the world. Interested? You would get to be part of this incredible event that will likely not be back in the USA for 10 or 20 years. They will pay your gas, lodging and so on. Contact Downrigger for more info. Questions for Glade the International Organizer of the World Fly Fishing Championship? Click here to send him an email.Questions for Devin Olsen, Team Member on Team USA Fly Fishing? Just click here. 9Let your buddy Downrigger Dale know what you thought of this Podcast. Click here to email him.Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail Every hunter knows someone who has heard the words...”No...we don't allow hunting here anymore.” Sometimes that decision comes after years of allowing respectful hunters onto private property. Sometimes...It only takes one bad experience. This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast, your Host Downrigger Dale sits down with Information Bureau Chief for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks', Greg Lemon to talk about one of the most important hunting initiatives we've seen in years. It's called Protect the Hunt, Respect Access and while there are some incredible prize packages involved, when YOU get involve that's not really what this program is about. It's about preserving something that's becoming harder and harder to find...Access.  During this conversation you'll hear the true story of how one unfortunate incident permanently changed access on Rigger's own family ranch, why FWP believes hunter ethics matter more now than ever, and how just a few minutes of your time could help strengthen the relationship between hunters and Montana landowners for years to come.   When you watch or listen to this Podcast you'll also learn how to enter for a chance to win an amazing lineup of prizes including guided hunts, rifles, optics, hunting gear and much more simply by completing the Hunter Landowner Stewardship Program. Just for taking a few minutes to learn about how you can help protect our hunting access. That’s a pretty incredible reward for just a few minutes, right? Now this is SUPER IMPORTANT: make sure you watch or listen all the way through so learn how to enter this amazing contest, it’s gonna be HUGE!!  Whether you've hunted Montana your entire life or you're just getting started, this is one podcast every hunter should watch or listen to. So watch the podcast first, then use the links below to learn more about the Protect the Hunt program, take the stewardship course, and enter for a chance to WIN BIG."  Links: Click here to learn more about the Protect the Hunt Program and get all the details about the prizes.To take the Hunter Landowner Stewardship Course and get entered to win, click hereClick the links below to learn more about the wonderful sponsors:Backcountry Hunters and Anglers   | Capital Sports - Helena | Leupold | MeatEater |  Montana Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife | Montana Stockgrowers Association Montana Wildlife Federation | OnX Hunt | Pheasants Forever | Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation | SCI SW Montana Chapter | VIAM Outdoors Town Pump | Maven | Weatherby | Montana Knife Company | Montana Outfitting Company | SITKA Gear Kenetrek Boots | GPO USA | Vortex Optics | Stone Glacier | Christensen Arms | Eylar Lone Mountain Coolers |    Questions for Greg? Click here to send him a message.Questions for Downrigger Dale? Click here to send him a message.Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale goes on the hunt to find some alternatives for anglers, especially you flyfishing anglers that have had to cancel your fishing plans due to high river water temperatures that have prompted Hoot Owl Restrictions and in many cases river fishing closures. As Rigger put it; “I started getting emails and texts from folks asking if I knew of any rivers without fishing restrictions, so I got a hold of our buddy Garrett Osler in West Yellowstone. Garrett is one of the most knowledgeable anglers in the Yellowstone area as well as across Southern Montana. We knew that Hebgen Lake down that way often has some excellent flyfishing for awesome trout and sure enough Garrett said that the fish in the lake are doing what they call “the Gulp” right now. He said there is all kinds of hatches happening, calabasas, caddis, mayflies, hoppers etc. So, there is lots of things going on in the lake and there are no fishing restrictions!” So that is great news for flyfishing anglers that want to head that way”. Now, here is where things get even better so make sure you watch or listen to this podcast because Garrett also gave a TON of great ideas that the whole family can take part in! Things like the Mountain Man Rendezvous going on in West Yellowstone which is fascinating. But it gets even better, there is also the West Yellowstone Wild Horse Stampede going on which is an awesome rodeo with PRCA Bull Riding and much more! The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center where you can see up close Grizzly Bears, Wolves, Otters and more. Whereas Garrett told us the Grizzly Bears do product testing. Watch them test the latest “bearproof” containers! So that ought to give you plenty to do right? Well Garrett tells us even MORE great stuff that is going on that you will love and there is a huge added benefit considering how hot it is out there, West Yellowstone is usually 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the rest of the state! That is why we are saying you really need to watch or listen to this podcast to learn about all the incredible stuff you can do!  There is so much going on in a much cooler environment. BUT this podcast delivers even more “cool news”. When you watch or listen Downrigger shares a few secrets you do not want to miss! In fact, he actually SHOWS you how to get to a place on the FWP website most folks don’t know about, not that they don’t want you to know about it, it’s just hard to find but your boy Rigger has got you! He shows you an easy way to find it on both the desktop website and mobile website. So, what is it that we are talking about? Listing after listing after listing of mountain lakes all around the state where it is nice and cool and trout, salmon and more are just hanging out in that nice cool mountain water just waiting for you to throw a cast to them! These listings show you what kind of fish are there, stocking info and the latitude and longitude you can enter into your GPS to take you right to them. See, we told you, you just must watch or listen to this awesome podcast! So, what are you waiting for? Mash that play button right now!!  Links: Click here to head to the website that Garrett talked about called Destination West Yellowstone. That site has all kinds of great info about what is going on, where you can stay and more!Click here to get more info and make reservations at Garrett’s hotel the historic Madison Hotel. Very cool place!Get tickets to the Rodeo in West Yellowstone! Click here to learn more!Click here to learn more about the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone.Click here to find ATV rentals in West Yellowstone.To see a listing of current Montana river restrictions and closures click here.Click here to get info about Mountain Lakes in Montana. Keep in mind though you will have to do some scrolling once you get there. Watch the podcast and Rigger will show you how to get right to it.Click here to learn more about Hebgen Lake, such as size, fish species, stocking info, etc. Questions for Garrett Ostler? Click here to email him.Click Here if you have questions and/or suggestions for Downrigger Dale.Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast our friend Ross Tate, The Whitefish Whisperer, is back and you know what that means don’t you? The Whitefish are biting again up on Flathead Lake in Western Montana. These amazing fish are known to be, pound for pound the hardest fighting fish in Montana. And with this heat wave they have showed up just in time for those of you that can’t fish many of Montana’s rivers due to high water temps. So, this would be the time to, first, watch or listen to this podcast and then head up to Flathead Lake and test what you learned from Ross. Ross is one of the best Whitefish anglers in Montana. He has been doin it for a long time and has some great tips even for you experienced Whitefish anglers. Another good reason to go fish for these fish is that they are also one of the best tasting fish that you will ever eat. As your host Rigger put it; “Your odds of catching a bunch of really nice Whitefish are fantastic if you watch this podcast. That’s cause Ross shows you right there on the podcast what are the best lures to you use, how to use the best jig technique and he even tells you where all the best spots are on Flathead to go find them. What more do you need?!”. Well, nothing probably but there is one more thing and it is an important one. If you watch or listen, you just might feel some wonder and wonder is always the best…because it always will lead you to something you did not know but wanted to learn and that our dear friends works for everyone whether they have or ever will fish. So, what are you waiting for?! Mash that play button!  Links: We talked about Zimmer Tackle and Kits Tackle so just click those names and you can learn more about them.As promised here are the top websites for Great Lakes whitefish recipes:Monahan's Seafood for simple baking. Maureen Abood for a classic mayo-parmesan crust.Freshwater Feasts for blackened pan-searing.Questions for Ross the Whitefish Whisperer? Click here to email him.Be sure and let your old buddy Downrigger Dale know what you thought of this week’s episode and let him know what your ideas are for new podcast topics. Just click here to email Rigger.Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail Well, would you do this? Would you take a canoe to the headwaters of Missouri River there in Three Forks Montana, get in it and say I think I will paddle this thing to Saint Louis Missouri? Well, that is what this week’s guest on the Montana Outdoor Podcast is doing! So, here is what happened, the Captain of the Montana Outdoor Radio show is out on Fort Peck Reservoir (big shocker there right) and he comes across a guy in a canoe that has been paddling down the reservoir. His canoe is packed, and the Captain gets curious and strikes up a conversation with this guy whose name is Bryon. Bryon tells the Captain that he started in Three Forks and is on his way to St. Louis. That is like 2,450 miles! That’s gonna take a while! Heck, it took him over 6 days to paddle Fort Peck alone. So, the Captain calls your host Downrigger Dale and says “hey you got to call this guy, here is his cell number”. So, Rigger calls old Bryon and hits “record”. Gang, you have GOT to watch or listen to this podcast! It is fascinating and Bryon, well he is a real character! So why is he doing this? Is he raising money for something? Nope. Is trying to bring awareness to some cause? Nope. Is he trying to break some kind of record? Nope. You need to watch or listen right now cause only Bryon can explain this and make it make sense…sort of. What is Byon’s last name? He didn’t think it was any of Riggers business. We could go on and on here. But it’s just better if you watch or listen for yourself. As Rigger put it; “I don’t know why but I just love this guy! What a character!”. And here is the thing all the fishermen that have come across him from Three Forks to Fort Peck and we are sure where he is now, all say the same thing, AND they all give him water, fish and all kinds of other things and Bryon has yet to ever ask for any of that stuff! Ok, enough just go watch or listen to this podcast you will be glad you did! Links: Sorry, we still don’t even know Bryon’s last name let alone a website link or email!If you have any questions or thoughts about this podcast or ideas for future podcasts click here to email your old buddy Downrigger Dale.Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us Fan Mail This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with Wendy Weaver Executive Director of Freshwater Partners about a pilot project that her organization is conducting on the Yellowstone River. This was a fascinating discussion because it deals with a problem that has been growing on our rivers since covid. As Rigger put it “I never thought I would see the day that we would see folks not getting along on one of the most fun and beautiful places in Montana, our rivers, what the heck is going on!? And how did we get here?” When you watch or listen to this podcast you learn that Wendy’s group is finding some very interesting things that are likely causing this, for the lack of a better word, unrest. It centers around several things, a slow chipping away of river etiquette, lack of patience and the need to educate new river goers and remind our river vets that we may just need to get back to the basics. The good news is that organizations like Freshwater Partners, Give Back to the Yellowstone and many others are doing something about it. No not by thinking they know more than others or are better than anyone else or anything like that. They are just folks getting us talking about how we can share our rivers, how we can be good to each other and the resource we love to fish, float, play, hunt and just flat enjoy. But it is going to take volunteers, and all of us just getting back to respecting each other, whether it’s picking up after our dogs, listening to our favorite float tunes using our headphones and yes just giving a smile and a wave now and then. Well, that or we are gonna need to hire a bunch of really good MMA referees, ok that last part was not actually a possible solution just Rigger making a poor attempt at humor. No matter if you rarely go to the river or are out there dang near daily, you are going to want to watch or listen to this podcast for sure and maybe even start a program on your favorite stretch of river in Montana. Whatever you decide this podcast is a good place to start so we can all get back sharing our rivers with each other again! Links: Click here to learn more about Freshwater Partners.You can learn more about Give Back to The Yellowstone when you click here.Click here to donate and help Freshwater Partners keep up the great work they are doing!Would you like to learn about starting a program on your favorite stretch of river? Or do you have any questions for Wendy Weaver? Click here to contact her! Click here to contact your buddy Downrigger Dale, he would love to hear from you! Tell him what you thought of this podcast and or give him ideas for new topics.Support the show Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.