Fishing Report, January 8

Happy New Year to everyone out there! What does 2025 have in store for us? I’m not sure but probably lots of fishing… Just a guess? Ice fishing has been great since early December. Our early season lakes are fishing well and have good ice. Our bigger lakes are still in the danger zone but are getting closer every day. Night-time lows in the teens and highs below freezing will really help get them making ice. Light snowfall is also helping. Give it a few more weeks and we should be on another one of our big lakes… Fingers crossed.

Fishing Report, Whitefish

North of Whitefish has been where we are doing most of our trips. Good ice conditions and good fishing are keeping everyone active and catching fish. Some days we are getting bug numbers with smaller fish… the next day bigger ones coming in. One key to catching fish is being willing to move. It seems that once you put a hurt’n on a few fish they get wise and are less willing to eat. Get out and move 10-15 feet. Keep moving and don’t get stuck in the same hole. Changing up jigs can also keep the fish guessing. Being mobile and changing up will keep you active.

Fishing Report, Kalispell

There are a few lakes west of Kalispell that have safe ice and are fishing good. I’m not seeing big numbers but I’m seeing quality. If you’re an ice hunter then this is your zone. Stealth and patience are your friends. Keep the noise low and stay still for a bit. Walking around with ice cleats, making noise, and commotion are a great way to scare off the big ones… Donkies as we like to call them. Some of the bigger lakes west of town are still not safe. Getting close but not safe. It looks like we are going to be getting a small blast of cold for the next week to 10 days, this will help a bunch out there. Hopefully, in a few weeks, we’ll be able to target some lake trout and salmon. Fingers crossed…

Guided Trips

Montana Fishing Guides is running guided ice fishing trips all of January, February, and into March. We supply all the equipment, rods, comfortable chairs, ice fishing-specific electronics, and all the high fives you can handle! Guided trips are private, it’s just your group and your guide. We’ll keep you warm, comfortable, and on fish. We can accommodate any group size, adults, kiddos, etc… If you have any questions feel free to call anytime, 406-233-9001. The phone is on 24-7