Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The Flathead National Forest offers ample opportunities for hunting, fishing, trapping, and shooting of all types across all districts. Boasting blue-ribbon native trout streams, healthy deer, elk, and moose populations, and rare opportunities for hunting black bear, mountain lion, moose, mountain goat and more, the Flathead National Forest is a sportsman’s paradise. All hunting, fishing, and trapping regulations are implemented and enforced by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. Please visit their website (link?) for detailed information on regulations.
Lake and Pond Fishing
The Flathead National Forest is known for its native fisheries, particularly of Bull Trout and Westslope Cutthroat Trout. It is our mission to assure that populations of these rare fishes are maintained, and we work with Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to meet population goals. Find out about fishing in Montana at Fish Montana from Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
River and Stream Fishing
The Flathead National Forest is known for its native fisheries, particularly of Bull Trout and Westslope Cutthroat Trout. It is our mission to assure that populations of these rare fishes are maintained, and we work with Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to meet population goals. Find out about fishing in Montana at Fish Montana from Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Hunting
Big Game Hunting is regulated by the Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks (FWP). For hunting regulations please check FWP's website.
If you plan to use an Outfitter and Guide company, be sure to verify the Outfitter and Guide you choose has a permit to operate on the Flathead National Forest.
Motorized access for hunters with disabilities.
The Flathead Forest offers opportunities for hunters with a valid Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks permit to hunt from a vehicle. The locations are limited and the Forest has certain requirements while providing this opportunity.
For more information on this program contact:
Fish, Wildlife, & Parks, Kalispell, MT office (406) 752-5501 or any Flathead National Forest office.
Recreational and Target Shooting
Target shooting (archery and firearms) is allowed in most areas of the Flathead National Forest. For recommended areas and additional information contact the local ranger districts.
Federal Rules:
- According to the Code of Federal Regulations (title 36), recreational shooting can take place on the National Forests and Grasslands under these conditions:
- You are at least 150 yards from a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation area or occupied area
- You are not shooting across or on a National Forest System Road or an adjacent body of water.
- You are not shooting into or within a cave
- You are not shooting in any manner or place where any person, property or resource is exposed to injury or damage due to such discharge
- You are not firing any tracer bullet or incendiary ammunition such as Tannerite.
Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities
Billy Garret Memorial Bridge Access
Handkerchief Lake
Holland Lake Boating Site
Hungry Horse Reservoir
Lindbergh Lake Boat Ramp
Middle Fork of Flathead River
Red Meadow Lake Campground
Spotted Bear Compound Day Use Site Fishing Site