Fishing Charters in Montana
Browse fishing charters in Montana that can help you catch catfish.
Bozeman Fishing Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
Our team of Bozeman fly fishing guides at Bozeman Fishing Outfitters offers trips on the Madison, Yellowstone, Missouri, & more.
Fly Fishing Montana Montana Trout Guides Fly Fishing Bozeman Montana
Belgrade, Montana
Montana Trout Guides offering fly fishing trips in the greater Bozeman Montana area. We also offer guided trips on the Yellowstone River, Gallatin River, Missouri River, Jefferson and Ruby Rivers
6X Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
Aleutian Rivers Angling
Livingston, Montana
Alaska Fishing the Hoodoo River for King Salmon, Silver Salmon, and Steelhead
Greater Yellowstone Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
Fishing Lodge in Montana, guided fly fishing trips, Montana fishing outfitter and guides, best trout fishing in Montana
Fishing With Larry
Columbus, Montana
Fishing with Larry's International Travel 404 Page. Our apologies, you have reached this page in error.
Montana Fishing Company
Missoula, Montana
Montana Fishing Company is your trusted source for the best in guided Montana fly fishing trips from the Bitterroot river to the Madison river & much more!
Rob Olsons Fishing With Rob
Livingston, Montana
Blue Ribbon Guide Service
Dillon, Montana
Explore fly-fishing guide Southwestern with Blue Ribbon Guide Services in southwest Montana. Book now.
Montana Adventures And Angling
Billings, Montana
Montana fly fishing trips with one of the regions most well respected and sought after guide services. Come with us to find that BIG FISH!
Smith River Expeditions
White Sulphur Springs, Montana
Montana River Anglers
Whitefish, Montana
Montana River Anglers is your preferred Montana trout fishing guides and outfitter for fly fishing on the Flathead river, near Glacier National Park, and from Whitefish to Missoula.
Best Time to Catch Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Billings. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Catfishing near Billings presents an opportunity to tangle with some hard-fighting fish in Montana's rivers and reservoirs. The Yellowstone River is a primary catfish waterway, and the Tongue River Reservoir also holds good numbers of channel catfish. Summer is prime time, as warmer water temperatures trigger increased feeding activity. Use traditional catfish baits like cut bait, nightcrawlers, or prepared stinkbaits. Focus on areas with structure, such as logjams, deep holes, or rocky bottoms. Fishing at night is often the most productive, as catfish are primarily nocturnal feeders. A local tip: Be prepared for strong currents in the Yellowstone River, and use heavy weights to keep your bait on the bottom. Also, be aware of the regulations regarding catfish size and possession limits. The catfish around Billings aren't known for reaching enormous sizes, but they provide a satisfying fight and a tasty meal.
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in Montana
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License
Check specific water body regulations for exceptions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Montana state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching catfish in Billings?
Catfish in the Billings area respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
Are there any restrictions on keeping catfish I catch near Billings?
Good news for catfish anglers! In Montana, there is no bag limit or size restriction for catfish. You can keep what you catch.
Do I need a fishing license to target catfish around Billings?
Yes, you'll need a valid Montana fishing license to fish for catfish or any other species in the state's public waters. Make sure to have it with you while fishing.
Can I fish for catfish year-round in the Billings area?
Yes, the catfish season is open year-round in Montana. This means you can target them whenever the weather and water conditions permit.
More Catfish Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in Billings
Ready to Catch Catfish in Billings?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.