Southwest Montana, August 24th, 2021

Montana FWP has lifted all Hoot Owl Restrictions excepting those on the Shields and Big Hole Rivers. Red Rock Creek also remains closed to fishing. Because of declining brown trout populations, Montana FWP is strongly considering placing catch and release and single hook flies and lure regulations on both the Big Hole and Beaverhead Rivers. Gulper fishing on Hebgen Lake is winding down, but such action be enjoyed, albeit on a smaller scale on Wade and Cliff Lakes. With hoot owl restrictions lifted on the Madison River, look for the return of numerous anglers. Presenting terrestrial insect and caddis life cycle patterns will bring fishing success. . Because of mop-up activity of the Goose Creek fire, the closure to the public access above the Elk Lake Resort remains in effect for the north end of Elk Lake as well as Hidden, goose and Otter Lakes.