News

Drought and wildland fires affect Montana's fish, wildlife, and parks. Please check here for news on current conditions and restrictions in effect to protect these important natural resources.

Current Situation

There are no angling or fire restrictions in the state of Montana. Here is a current report on conditions.

Spring Drought Update (May 21, 2008) ( 56 KB)

Angling Under Drought Conditions

When water levels drop and stream temperatures rise, FWP may restrict fishing to protect the State's sport fisheries. Low water and high temperatures cause fish to seek deep pools, making them more vulnerable to predators, disease and to anglers. For more information, and to check the conditions on your favorite fishing streams, please use the links below.

• USGS Daily Streamflow Conditions for Montana
• Drought Fishing Closure Policy

  Drought Management Plans

  • Jefferson River Drought Management Plan (Courtesy JRWC)
  • Big Hole River ( 66 KB)
  • Blackfoot River ( 30 KB)

The Effects of Drought on Parks & Fishing Access Sites

Montana is a generally arid state. In mid and late summer, some locations may experience drought and be ripe for wildland fires. Before planning your weekend or taking a vacation, you can check here to see if there are any drought- or fire-related restrictions in place on rivers or streams or at State Parks and Fishing Access Sites. You can also learn what you can do to help prevent wildland fires.

• How State Park Visitors and Campers Can Help

The Effects of Drought on Wildlife

Wildland fires can destroy hundreds, sometimes thousands, of acres of habitat and displace wildlife. Late season fires may also affect hunting season dates, hunting opportunities and the conditon of winter range for deer, elk and other species. When wildland fires break out, check here for information on how they may be affecting Montana's wildlife.

• Wildlife Drought Contingency Plan

Regional Drought Reports

Montana Fish,Wildlife & Parks continuously monitors drought conditions and how they may be impacting the state's fisheries. To review these detailed reports throughout the fishing season, please check the links below.

• 2008 Spring Drought Update ( 56 KB)
• 2007 Fall Drought Update ( 87 KB)
• 2007 Spring Drought Update( 137.5 KB)
• 2006 Annual FWP Drought Report ( 308 KB)
• 2006 September Drought Update ( 86 KB)
• 2006 July Drought Update ( 92 KB)
• 2006 Spring Drought Update ( 81 KB)
• 2005 Annual FWP Drought Report ( 242 KB)