Fishing Charters in Montana
Browse fishing charters in Montana that can help you catch smallmouth bass.
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 Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in West Yellowstone. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass fishing near West Yellowstone isn't the area's primary draw, but Hebgen Lake offers a surprisingly good opportunity to hook into some bronzebacks. While most anglers come for the trout, the rocky shorelines and submerged structure of Hebgen provide ideal habitat for smallmouth. Summer is the peak season, with pre-spawn activity in late spring also producing good results. Focus your efforts on the western and southern shorelines of the lake, where you'll find more rocky points and drop-offs. A boat is highly recommended to effectively cover the water, and several boat ramps are available around the lake. Local tip: Use crayfish-imitating crankbaits or jigs worked along the bottom. The smallmouth here are known to be aggressive, but the water can be clear, so use fluorocarbon leaders. The population is self-sustaining, but practice catch and release to help maintain a healthy fishery in the face of trout-focused angling pressure.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in West Yellowstone.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Montana
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing license
See specific regulations for waters with special restrictions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Montana state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in West Yellowstone?
The daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Montana is 5 per day. There are no size restrictions.
When is the best time to fish for Smallmouth Bass near West Yellowstone?
The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are generally the best for Smallmouth Bass fishing. They tend to be more active when the water temperatures are higher.
What lures or baits are effective for Smallmouth Bass around West Yellowstone?
Smallmouth Bass in this region are often caught using crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics that imitate crayfish or other small prey. Topwater lures can also be effective in the early morning or evening.
Do I need a license to fish for Smallmouth Bass in West Yellowstone, Montana?
Yes, you need a valid Montana fishing license to fish for Smallmouth Bass, or any fish species, in the state.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in West Yellowstone
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in West Yellowstone?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.