Montana Fish Report

Summer steelhead fishing on the Wilson has been moderate to slow, but there are good numbers of fish throughout the system. Late August and September can be a great time to target these fish as cooler nights lower water temps, and fish that have been holding get more active. Target riffles and the top of pools during first and last light, and concentrate on deeper holding pools once the sun is on the water. Fishing stealthy, with light gear, and targeting first and last light is often the key to success with these fish.

The Wilson doesn’t open for fall Chinook above tide water (Hwy 101 Bridge) until Sept 16.

Trout season opened May 22, and there are some cutthroat around, but fishing for them in the Wilson’s clear summer flows can be tough. Remember, the limit on streams and rivers is two per day over 8 inches.