Salmon may not be the first fish that comes to mind when thinking about Montana’s aquatic life. As a landlocked state without direct access to the ocean, Montana lacks the anadromous salmon runs found in coastal regions like the Pacific Northwest. However several salmonid species do reside in Montana’s lakes, reservoirs and rivers. For anglers hoping to hook into these prized game fish the state offers some unique salmon fishing opportunities.
A Brief History of Salmon in Montana
While not native to the region, salmon were introduced to certain Montana waters several decades ago. In the 1980s, chinook salmon were stocked in Fort Peck Reservoir as part of an effort to establish a trophy fishery in the state. Additionally, kokanee salmon were planted in reservoirs and lakes across Montana to provide a new recreational angling resource. Unlike their seagoing counterparts, these landlocked salmon cannot migrate to the ocean. However, their presence has added an exciting new dimension to the state’s diverse freshwater fisheries.
Salmon Species Found in Montana
The main salmon species targeted by Montana anglers are chinook salmon and kokanee salmon.
Chinook Salmon
One of two Pacific salmon species in Montana, the chinook salmon, was introduced into Fort Peck Reservoir during the 1980s in an effort to produce a trophy fishery Like all Pacific salmon, the chinook dies after spawning. It is doubtful that these fish will reproduce naturally in Fort Peck, but due to their homing instinct, they return to the reservoir when ready to spawn They can then be artificially propagated in hatcheries. Chinook, also known as “king salmon”, are aggressive piscivores that can reach sizes over 25 pounds in Montana waters.
Kokanee Salmon
Kokanee salmon are a popular target for anglers in Montana. Unlike ocean-run salmon, kokanee spend their entire life cycle in freshwater. They average 1-2 pounds in size but are known for their hard fighting abilities. Kokanee salmon can be found in Flathead Lake, Georgetown Lake, Canyon Ferry Reservoir and several other bodies of water across Montana. Trolling with small spoons, jigs and other lures at depths around the thermocline is an effective method for catching kokanee.
Top Destinations for Salmon Fishing in Montana
While salmon can be found in numerous waters across the state, a few prime destinations stand out for targeting these fish:
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Fort Peck Reservoir – The only place to catch chinook salmon in Montana, Fort Peck also holds nice-sized kokanee. Troll deep near the dam with flashers and bait.
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Flathead Lake – This scenic lake offers excellent kokanee salmon fishing, especially during spring and fall. Target them near drop-offs by trolling or jigging.
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Georgetown Lake – Regularly stocked with kokanee, Georgetown Lake allows anglers to hook plenty of these feisty fish. Downriggers and small lures work well.
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Canyon Ferry Reservoir – Find kokanee cruising the deep waters of this reservoir. Troll or jig near underwater structures for success.
Techniques for Catching Landlocked Salmon
The techniques for catching landlocked salmon are similar to those used for their ocean-going relatives. Downriggers allow anglers to target specific depths where salmon hold. Flashers and dodgers paired with bait or lures entice aggressive strikes from salmon. Trolling over submerged humps, drop-offs and structure increases chances of success. If fish are marked suspended on electronics, vertical jigging with small spoons and jigs can also produce. Gear like light spinning tackle or fly rods in the 6-10 pound range work well for fighting hard-pulling salmon.
Fishing Regulations and Licenses
Regulations and limits for salmon vary depending on the specific body of water. Anglers should consult the Montana Fishing Regulations for complete, up-to-date information. A valid Montana fishing license with a salmon stamp is required to fish for these species in the state’s lakes and reservoirs.
Enjoy a Unique Salmon Fishing Opportunity
Salmon fishing may not be synonymous with Montana, but it does offer a unique angling opportunity in the landlocked state. For hard-fighting salmon from pristine mountain lakes and reservoirs, look no further than what Montana has to offer. Just be sure to obtain proper licenses, understand regulations for specific waters, and use techniques tailored to landlocked salmon. With a little preparation and persistence, reeling in one of these prized catches is an experience every angler should take advantage of when visiting Big Sky Country.
Popular ways to camp
What do rainbows, cutthroats, and kokanees have in common? If you know the answer, grab your fishing pole and get your butt to Salmon Lake ASAP, because there’s nowhere better for endless fishing and swoon-worthy views. If fish aren’t swimming around in your cup of tea, just paddle out in the canoe and look to the sky for a spectacular variety of red-necked grebes, great blue herons, loons, osprey, and bald eagles. Tucked between the Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges, Salmon Lake is a little nest of woodland wildlife. Protected by high mountains blanketed in Douglas-firs and ponderosa pine trees, Salmon Lake is the department store of wildlife—a one-stop shop for all of your flora, fauna and fishing needs.
- The Hike-Bike Campsite caters to cycling adventurers with amenities like a bike rack, fire ring, and bear-resistant food lockers.
- Woodland Campsites offer a serene retreat amid western larch, ponderosa pine, and Douglas-fir, perfect for tent and RV campers alike.
- Lakeside Campsites provide stunning views and easy access to the water for those looking to wake up to the sound of gentle waves.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early, especially for peak summer months, as sites at Salmon Lake State Park fill up quickly due to its popularity.
- Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
- Keep an eye on cancellations, which can provide unexpected opportunities for last-minute trips.
- Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan in case the park is fully booked.
The best time to visit Salmon Lake State Park is during the summer season, when the park is fully open and all amenities are available. From May to late October, enjoy the full splendor of the park. Winter brings a quieter charm, with walk-in access and day-use only from November 1st to April 30th.
How To Smoke Salmon – From the Kootenai River in Montana
FAQ
Where can you catch salmon in Montana?
Fort Peck Reservoir is the only place in the state to do this. If you are lucky enough this will be a fish that you will never forget! Fort Peck started stalking these Chinook salmon back in 1983. Last year was one of the best years the lake has ever had.
What is the rarest fish in Montana?
Conservation > Fisheries Management Pallid Sturgeon
The pallid sturgeon is one of the rarest and largest freshwater fish in North America.
Did salmon ever make it to Montana?
There were salmon in Montana, and not so long ago, before they were walled off. If you core the depths of giant cedar trees, you’ll find marine nitrogen in them. The only way that marine nitrogen could have gotten here was in the protein of salmon.
What is the most common fish in Montana?
Montana fly fishing centers around trout. Cutthroat, Brown, Rainbow and Brookie– Montana is world famous for its trout fishing. But whether you’re on the rivers, searching the alpine lakes or checking out the reservoirs and ponds, you’re going to find more than trout swimming in our waters.
Where can I fish for salmon in Mt?
There is a nice variety of salmon fishing in MT. Several major lakes including Ashley Lake, Fort Peck Lake, Fresno Reservoir, Georgetown Lake, Hauser Lake, Holter Reservoir, Lake Helena, Lake Koocanusa, McDonald Lake, Noxon Reservoir, Seeley Lake and Swan Lake all have populations of salmon.
Are there Chinook salmon in Montana?
One of two Pacific salmon species in Montana, the chinook salmon, was introduced into Fort Peck Reservoir during the 1980s in an effort to produce a trophy fishery. Like all Pacific salmon species, the chinook dies after spawning.
Can you fish for coho and kokanee salmon in Montana?
All about fishing for coho and kokanee salmon in MT. Montana is not typically known for salmon fishing, as it is a landlocked state without direct access to the ocean. However, it does offer opportunities for anglers to target landlocked salmon, also known as kokanee salmon, in select lakes and reservoirs.
Where can you catch kokanee salmon in Montana?
Canyon Ferry Lake, Flathead Lake, Fort Peck Lake, Georgetown Lake, Hebgen Lake, Holter Reservoir, Lake Elwell-Tiber Reservoir, Lake Koocanusa and Tongue River Reservoir are some of the most popular places for fishing in Montana, offering anglers the chance to pursue a variety of fish species. How do you catch Kokanee salmon in Montana?
Where did Chinook salmon come from?
Click the images and links above for species details. The state record chinook salmon came from Fort Peck Reservoir. The state record coho salmon was caught in Fort Peck Reservoir. Pacific Salmon are born in and remain in freshwater streams for the early years of life. The number varies by species.
What is a kokanee salmon?
The kokanee is the landlocked version of the sockeye salmon. Kokanee were first introduced into Montana in Flathead Lake in 1914 and are currently fairly widespread in the western half of the state on both sides of the Divide. Kokanee can achieve sizes of 3 to 5 pounds but 1-pounders are most common.