Fishing Charters in Montana
Browse fishing charters in Montana that can help you catch crappie.
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 Crappie
Crappie can be caught year-round in Billings. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Crappie
Crappie fishing in Montana? While not the first species that comes to mind, reservoirs near Billings can offer surprisingly good crappie action. Look to places like Cooney Reservoir or Tongue River Reservoir. These impoundments provide the stillwater habitat that crappie thrive in. Spring is the best time to target crappie, as they move into shallow bays and coves to spawn. Use small jigs or minnows suspended under a bobber, focusing on structure like submerged trees or weed beds. As the water warms in summer, crappie will move deeper, so adjust your presentation accordingly. A local tip: Cooney Reservoir can get crowded, especially on weekends, so consider fishing during the week or exploring other, smaller reservoirs in the area. Also, remember that Montana's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes in conditions. While not trophy-sized, the crappie near Billings offer a fun and accessible fishing opportunity.
How to Catch Crappie
Crappie 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 for crappie near Billings?
Small jigs tipped with minnows or crappie nibbles are very effective. Small spinners and tubes can also work well.
Is there a limit to how many crappie I can keep in Montana?
There is no limit on the number of crappie you can keep in Montana.
Are there any size restrictions on crappie I can keep in Montana?
No, there are no size restrictions for crappie in Montana.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for crappie in Montana?
Yes, you need a valid Montana fishing license to fish for crappie and other fish species in Montana.
More Crappie Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in Billings
Ready to Catch Crappie in Billings?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.