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 Missoula. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Catfish in the Missoula area? Absolutely. While the Clark Fork River system isn't the Mississippi, it still holds a decent population of channel catfish. Focus your efforts on the deeper pools and slower-moving sections of the river, especially after a rain when the water is a bit murky. The Bitterroot River, as it flows into the Clark Fork, can also be productive. Summer nights are ideal for catfishing. Use stink baits, cut bait, or nightcrawlers rigged on a Carolina rig. Look for areas with submerged logs or rocky structure, as catfish love to ambush prey from cover. A good access point is the Clark Fork River near Turah, where you can find decent bank fishing opportunities. Be patient; Montana catfish aren't always easy to find, but the reward of a hard-fighting channel cat is well worth the effort.
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 kind of catfish are found near Missoula?
Channel catfish are the most common type of catfish found in the waters around Missoula.
What's the best bait for catching catfish in the Missoula area?
Catfish are known for their diverse diet, but common baits include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stinkbaits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
Are there any restrictions on catfish fishing in Montana?
There are no bag or size limits for catfish in Montana. You can fish for them year-round with a valid Montana Fishing License.
Where are some good spots to target catfish near Missoula?
Try fishing in the deeper pools of the Clark Fork River or in some of the larger lakes and reservoirs in the region. Look for areas with submerged structure or current breaks.
More Catfish Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in Missoula
Ready to Catch Catfish in Missoula?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.