Best Ice Fishing Lakes in Montana
Montana has some of the most stunning and inspiring scenery in the country. Two of the most well-known national parks in Montana are Yellowstone and Glacier. Fishing is the best thing you can do in Montana all year.
The real fun begins when the temperatures drop and the lakes freeze. It’s almost ice fishing time in Montana. This is a popular destination for those who are determined to catch monster fish.
It’s a great way for you to plan your trip or to spend time with friends and family. With so many national parks in Montana, you don’t have to wait any longer to go ice fishing. Today we have compiled a list of the top ice fishing lakes in the Big Sky State.
Montana’s Best Ice Fishing Spots
Montana has many beautiful lakes that are sure to freeze in winter. We did some research and discovered the top ice fishing spots in Montana. Enjoy your next day of ice fishing in one of these Montana lakes.
These are the Best Ice Fishing Lakes Montana has to offer:
- Fort Peck Lake
- Flathead Lake
- Georgetown Lake
- Canyon Ferry Lake
- Hebgen Lake
Fort Peck Lake
Fort Peck Lake is Montana’s largest water body. It was formed by a dam built on the Missouri River. Fort Peck Lake, which covers 245,000 acres, is the fifth-largest man-made lake in America. This lake offers some of the finest ice fishing Montana has available.
There are over 50 species of fish here, including large walleyes, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. If you are looking for great ice fishing, this is the spot to go. Fort Peck Lake can be found in Northeast Montana, 120 mi north of Billings or 140 miles east of Great Falls.
Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake may not freeze completely, but that doesn’t stop it from being home to some of Montana’s best ice fishing. With 200 miles of freshwater, it is the largest body west of the Mississippi River. Although it may not freeze completely, many shorelines, bays, and inlets can allow you to fish ice.
Flathead lake is home to trout, northern pike, and whitefish. You will need a tribal fishing permit to fish in Flathead Lake, which borders the Confederated Salish Tribes Flathead Reservation.
Georgetown Lake
Georgetown Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in Montana, is located near Anaconda in Southwest Montana. Because the water is less deep, ice will form here before other large ice fishing lakes in Montana. Because of the abundance of fish and the fact that they can fish earlier, people flock to this area early in the season.
Georgetown Lake is a Blue Ribbon fishery. This means it has trophy-sized fish. This lake is home to rainbow trout and brook trout. Salmon.
Canyon Ferry Lake
Canyon Ferry Lake is Montana’s third-largest lake and it can be found just outside Helena, the state capital. Canyon Ferry Dam created the lake, which measures 30 miles in length and 5 miles in width. Because of the many activities, you can do, this lake is a popular outdoor spot.
It is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, including ice fishing, year-round. Canyon Ferry is home to rainbow trout and walleye as well as ling and perch. This location is worth a visit if you have ice fishing gear.
Hebgen Lake
Hebgen Lake is the ideal spot to ice fish near Yellowstone National Park. Because it is located in the middle of public land, it is easy to find. It stretches for 15 miles so everyone has plenty of space. It’s a great spot for anyone who doesn’t want to hike but wants to be close to their ice fishing.
You will find many campsites around the area. You will find a place to stay in the area, provided you are willing to face the elements. This scenic lake is surrounded by 360-degree mountain views. You can expect to catch whitefish and trout while fishing these waters. Rainbow trout have been known to grow to a size of 14-16 inches in some places.
Last Thoughts on Ice Fishing Lakes Montana
Montana is known for its stunning views, and it is also home to the Big Sky Country. Two of the most famous and visited national parks in the country, Glacier National Park and Yellowstone, are located here. Montana is home to fishing all year round. No one can leave Montana because of the harsh winters. You must ensure that you comply with all fishing regulations. You’ll have the best time ice fishing in Montana!
Check out our list of the top ice fishing spots in Colorado and Alaska for more ideas. Fishmasters has even more helpful tips and guides.