Southwest Montana, July 17th, 2024

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks began Hoot Owl Regulations last Thursday on several streams. These are closed to fishing from 2:00 PM to Midnight each day until lifted.  Many are in the Madison River drainage.  Lakes are omitted from Hoot Owl regulations. This is because they have cool water at depth. Hidden Lake is a good example. It is north of Elk Lake and a four wheel drive vehicle is needed to reach it, then a half mile walk. Flotation devices are ideal to fish for its rainbows ranging to trophy size.