Fishing Report, February 20

Another great week of ice fishing in the books. The cold temps made all the difference. Ice conditions are very good right now and I would expect it to remain that way through the end of the month. The next week is looking a little warmer during the day and below freezing at night. Next Monday it looks like there will be another cool down with daytime highs in the 20’s. This is all good for our ice conditions and snowpack n the mountains.

Fishing Report, Whitefish

Right now Whitefish Lake is a good call if you’re looking for bigger fish. Lake Trout have been very active and willing to eat white tubes tipped with some cut bait. Deeper water has been the most productive. 140-180 is where I’ve been focusing. If you have topo maps of the lake then focus on the deeper drops that end in this depth range. Big flats between basins are good, flats off the bigger points have been good too. It does seem like there are a lot of fish in these spots. The ice is pretty safe through most of the lake. I’m not seeing any less than 7” of good ice. I would be cautious as this week progresses, the warmer weather and rain will start to impact ice conditions out there.

Fishing Report, Kalispell

Ice conditions west of Kalispell remain good. most places close to Kalispell continue to have 12” or more of ice. Perch are very active right now. Perch are starting to move into shallower water in prep for spawning this spring. If your spots are panning out then move shallower and look for them there. There are some good Lake Trout options this way too. Deep water once again is where I’d be looking. 100 plus with white jigs and cut bait. Kookanee also out this way. Find them and play the game. Some days they’re willing to eat anything and some days you have to make them eat.

Guided Trips

Montana Fishing Guides is running guided ice fishing trips in the Whitefish, Kalispell, Columbia Falls, West Glacier, Helena, and Bozeman. There is great ice fishing in all these locations. We supply all the equipment from heated ice houses, comfortable chairs, electronics for every angler, and a great guide. Trips are private, it’s just you, your group, and the guide. 406-233-9001, give a call anytime and we’ll figure out a great trip. I’m always happy to answer any questions you have.