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 West Yellowstone. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
While West Yellowstone is renowned for its trout fishing in the rivers and streams flowing from Yellowstone National Park, targeting channel catfish here presents a unique challenge and opportunity. Your best bet is Hebgen Lake, a reservoir west of town on the Madison River. Though primarily known for its trout, Hebgen does hold a population of catfish that tend to congregate in the warmer, shallower bays, especially near submerged timber and weed beds. Look for areas where the Madison River flows into the lake, as these areas often concentrate baitfish and, consequently, catfish. Summer evenings and nights are prime time. Access is easy with several boat ramps around the lake. Be aware that Hebgen Lake can be windy, so check the forecast before heading out. Local tip: Catfish here aren't as pressured as trout, so experiment with unconventional baits like commercially prepared stink baits or even cut bait from other species in the lake. The catfish population is relatively small, so catch and release is encouraged to maintain the fishery.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in West Yellowstone.
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 bait to use for Channel Catfish in West Yellowstone?
Channel Catfish in this area respond well to natural baits like nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and stinkbaits. Experiment to see what's working best on any given day.
Are there any restrictions on keeping Channel Catfish in West Yellowstone?
No, there are no size or bag limits for Channel Catfish in Montana. You can fish for them year-round.
Do I need a fishing license to target Channel Catfish near West Yellowstone?
Yes, a valid Montana fishing license is required to fish for any species, including Channel Catfish, in the state's public waters.
Where are the best spots to catch Channel Catfish around West Yellowstone?
While not as common as trout, check the warmer, slower-moving sections of the Madison River and Hebgen Lake. Look for areas with structure like submerged logs or rocky bottoms.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in West Yellowstone
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in West Yellowstone?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.