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 Plains. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish might not be the first species that springs to mind when you think of Montana, but the Clark Fork River near Plains offers some surprisingly good catfishing opportunities. The warmer waters and abundant food sources in the river support a healthy population of channel cats. They're most active after dark, so night fishing is often the most productive. The best time to target channel catfish is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall (May-September). Look for them in deeper holes, near log jams, and along undercut banks. Stinkbaits, cut bait, and nightcrawlers are all effective baits. A local tip: try fishing near the mouths of tributaries, as these areas often attract catfish looking for food. Access to the Clark Fork River is available at several public fishing access sites along Highway 200. Be sure to check Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks regulations for the Clark Fork River, as there may be specific restrictions. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially during the evening hours.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Plains.
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 limit for channel catfish near Plains, Montana?
There is no limit on channel catfish in Montana.
Are there size restrictions for channel catfish in Montana?
No, there are no size restrictions for channel catfish.
Do I need a license to fish for channel catfish in Montana?
Yes, you need a valid Montana fishing license.
When is the best time to fish for channel catfish near Plains?
While you can fish for catfish year-round, they tend to be more active in warmer months.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in Plains
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Plains?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.