Montana Fish Report

As water temperatures rise the fish are moving to their typical summer patterns. Striped bass are being caught off-shore, largely on swimbait style lures or anchovies. Sticking to shad imitations when choosing color patterns would be a great place to start. Smallmouth bass have also moved off-shore, but are being caught on more finesse-style presentations such as small plastics. The largemouth bass are moving up into the shallows and can be caught in a number of different ways. Reaction/moving baits would be more effective in the morning and just before dark while the bass are cruising the shallows. Finesse-style lures may prove more effective when they are holding tighter to cover during the mid-day hours. Special Regulations: The limit is 20 striped bass: minimum of 20 inches, unlimited striped bass under 20 inches, and 5 trout in any combination. Striped bass may be taken by spear or spear gun from that portion of Lake Mohave between Hoover Dam and Cottonwood Landing. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.