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 Livingston. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
Channel catfish in the Livingston, Montana area offer a surprisingly good alternative to the region's renowned trout fishing. While the Yellowstone River is the main draw, some of the slower-moving sections and tributaries hold decent populations of channel cats. Look for deeper holes, log jams, and areas with slower current. The best time to target catfish is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. They are particularly active at night, so consider night fishing with lanterns or headlamps. Typical catfish baits such as nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and commercially prepared stink baits are all effective. A local tip: concentrate your efforts near the confluence of smaller streams and the Yellowstone River, as catfish often congregate in these areas. Be aware of swift currents and changing water levels, especially after rainfall. Public access is available along much of the Yellowstone River, but be sure to check local regulations and respect private property. Catfish in this area tend to be smaller than those found in warmer climates, but they can still provide a fun and rewarding fishing experience.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Livingston.
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
Are there any good places to catch channel catfish near Livingston?
The Yellowstone River is your best bet for channel catfish in the Livingston area. Look for deeper holes and areas with structure like submerged logs or rocks.
What's the best bait for channel catfish in the Yellowstone River?
Nightcrawlers, cut bait (like sucker or chub), and stinkbaits are all effective. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on.
Is there a limit on how many channel catfish I can keep in Montana?
No, there is no limit on the number of channel catfish you can keep in Montana.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for catfish in Montana?
Yes, you need a valid Montana fishing license to fish for any species, including channel catfish.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in Livingston
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Livingston?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.