Montana's vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, and abundant natural resources have long attracted adventurers from all walks of life. In the early 19th century, explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark traversed Montana's rugged terrain during their historic expedition across the American West. Their journey opened up new opportunities for hunting, fishing, trapping, and exploration in the region.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Montana's pristine rivers became a hotspot for fly fishing enthusiasts. The state's clear waters are home to a variety of fish species including rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout. Montana's reputation as a premier destination for fly fishing continues to this day.
The establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872 marked another significant milestone in Montana's outdoor recreation history. As America's first national park, Yellowstone offers unparalleled opportunities for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and geothermal sightseeing.
Montana is a large agricultural state with $4.2B of ag production, and roughly 62.5% of the land privately owned by farmers and ranchers. The major crops are cow/calf production, wheat and hay. When planning hunting trips to Montana on private lands like farms & ranches, it's important to understand some key dates for farmers and ranchers.
Ranchers in this region usually do their calving, brandings and vaccinations anywhere from February through June and will ship cattle in late fall. During these times, they are extremely busy and may be harder to communicate with. Farmers in Montana will usually begin planting their crops in late April through June and then will harvest their crops in September, depending on weather.
Popular outdoor activities in Montana
Montana, fondly referred to as the "Last Best Place," is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The state is known for its terrain, which includes vast plains, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, making it a prime destination for a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the most popular pursuits in Montana is fly fishing. The state's rivers, such as the Yellowstone and Missouri Rivers, are teeming with trout and provide an unrivaled fly fishing experience. Montana's wilderness also makes it an ideal location for hunting. With abundant populations of elk, deer, and antelope, hunters can enjoy a challenging but rewarding experience in the state's vast open spaces.
Hiking is another favored activity in Montana. With over 10 million acres of public land and trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes like Glacier National Park or the Continental Divide Trail, hikers can immerse themselves in nature's beauty at every turn.
For thrill-seekers, white-water rafting on rivers like Flathead River offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure amidst stunning scenery. Whether you're casting a line into a serene river or navigating through roaring rapids, Montana offers an outdoor experience that caters to all levels of adventure seekers.
Popular counties for outdoor activities in Montana
Gallatin County, home to Bozeman and Big Sky Resort, is renowned for its world-class skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking trails. The county also boasts access to Yellowstone National Park's northern entrance, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing and hiking opportunities.
Flathead County in northwest Montana is another outdoor enthusiast's paradise. It encompasses the western part of Glacier National Park, with over 700 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. The Flathead River system offers excellent fishing for trout and other game fish.
Missoula County offers a unique blend of city life and wilderness exploration. With the Clark Fork River running through downtown Missoula, residents can enjoy fly fishing or river surfing after a day at work. Surrounding mountains provide ample opportunities for hunting big game like elk and deer.
Lastly, Lewis and Clark County provides access to Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest - a haven for hunters seeking elk, mule deer, black bear, or mountain lion. Its network of trails caters to hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders, and off-road vehicle enthusiasts alike.