Fishing Charters in Montana
Browse fishing charters in Montana that can help you catch channel 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 Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Columbia Falls. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
Channel catfish aren't the first fish that come to mind when you think of Montana, but you can find them in the Flathead River system near Columbia Falls. Look for them in deeper holes and channels, especially near structure like submerged logs and rocks. They're most active at night and during the warmer months, from late spring through summer. Use cut bait, nightcrawlers, or stinkbaits fished on the bottom. A good strategy is to find areas where smaller streams or rivers flow into the Flathead, as these areas often concentrate baitfish and attract catfish. One access point to consider is near the Highway 2 bridge over the Flathead River. Be aware of local regulations regarding bait and fishing licenses. While not a trophy catfish destination, the Flathead River offers a unique opportunity to target them in a beautiful Montana setting.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Columbia Falls.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in Montana
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing license
Check local regulations as some waters may have specific limits.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Montana state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to catch channel catfish near Columbia Falls?
Channel catfish are often caught using bait like nightcrawlers, chicken liver, or commercially prepared stink baits. Fish them on the bottom with a weighted rig.
Is there a limit to how many channel catfish I can keep in Montana?
No, there is no bag limit or size limit for channel catfish in Montana. You can keep as many as you catch.
Can I fish for channel catfish year-round in Montana?
Yes, the season for channel catfish is open year-round in Montana, so you can target them whenever you like.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for channel catfish in Montana?
Yes, you will need a valid Montana fishing license to fish for channel catfish in the state's public waters.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in Columbia Falls
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Columbia Falls?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.