Montana Fish Report

The Nestucca and Three Rivers are starting to produce some spring Chinook and fishing should improve throughout the month. The lower river, below Farmer Creek, usually produces the best. Bobber and eggs or sandshrimp, drift fishing, back bouncing, and divers and bait are all good techniques. These fish can be finicky, but are worth the effort!

Hatchery summer steelhead are also showing up on this basin. Drift fishing, spinners, and flies are good choices to target these fish.

Anglers are reminded that Anti-Snagging Gear Restrictions are in effect from May 1 to July 15. See page 18 of the regulations for details.

The North Coast Rivers open for trout fishing on May 22. There are some nice cutthroat around, and these aggressive fish can be fun to catch. Most of the rivers are restricted to artificial lures and flies above tidewater until Aug. 31, so check the regulations before you go.