Fishing Report, February 5

This week’s ice fishing was a blast! The cold snap solidified the ice, leading to fantastic catches of perch, smallmouth bass, whitefish, and kokanee salmon. With more cold weather on the way, we’re expecting even better conditions next week. Get ready for some epic ice fishing! Cold temperatures this week, lows in the single digits and highs in the 20’s, in the Flathead Valley will maintain or improve ice conditions for ice fishing. High barometric pressure often coincides with stable, cold weather, which generally improves and maintains safe ice conditions for fishing. This stable weather also tends to make fish more active, leading to more fish activity.

Fishing Report, Whitefish

Ice fishing north of Whitefish, Montana, is currently excellent, with a stable high-pressure system maintaining solid ice conditions. While checking local reports is always recommended, most area lakes offer safe ice for anglers.  Perch are biting aggressively in shallower water, often near weed beds or drop-offs, responding well to small tungsten jigs tipped with mealworms or maggots. Kokanee salmon are being caught by anglers jigging small, brightly colored spoons or jigs. Effective kokanee jigging often involves varying your depth, starting near the bottom and working your way up in the water column. A quick, short jigging motion is often more effective than a slow, sweeping one, and adding a small piece of scented bait, like a maggot or corn kernel, can entice reluctant fish. Remember to bring a good flasher to pinpoint schools of Kokanee and an auger to keep your holes open. Dress in warm layers and get ready for some exciting winter fishing!

Fishing Report, Kalispell

Kalispell’s ice fishing scene is really taking off! Recent cold snaps have solidified previously iffy lakes, opening up more opportunities. Smallmouth bass are actively feeding, hitting jigging raps and maggots on nearshore humps and flats in the 30-40 foot range. Whitefish are also making an appearance, and they’re responding well to small tungsten jigs tipped with wax worms or maggots. A good technique for whitefish is to briefly pound the bottom with your jig, then follow up with a slow, enticing jigging motion. Don’t miss out on the winter bite!

Guided Trips

Discover Montana’s winter wonderland with a private guided ice fishing trip. Montana Fishing Guides provide access to prime, often less-pressured lakes, where you can experience the thrill of the catch. All necessary gear is included, from augers and shelters to top-of-the-line electronics, ensuring a comfortable and productive outing. These guided trips create unforgettable winter adventures.