Smelt Fishing in Missoula, MT
Local guides, seasonality, and regulations for smelt in Missoula.
Fishing Charters in Montana
Browse fishing charters in Montana that can help you catch smelt.
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 Smelt
Peak season: May. Also good: April, June, November.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smelt
Smelt are small, slender, silvery fish that are a favorite target for anglers, especially in colder climates. Found in both freshwater and saltwater environments across North America and Europe, Smelt are known for their delicate flavor and the unique experience of ice fishing for them. They are a schooling fish, and when you find them, the action can be fast and furious, making them popular in areas like Montana, Wyoming, and the Great Lakes.
Smelt Fishing in Missoula
While Montana isn't typically known for smelt, the possibility of finding them in certain lakes near Missoula does exist, albeit it's a less common pursuit than trout or salmon. Some larger, deeper lakes in the region that are stocked with predatory fish *might* have had smelt introduced as a forage base at some point, though this is not widely publicized. If you're determined to target smelt near Missoula, your best bet is to research specific lake stocking reports from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. Look for lakes with a history of stocking salmonids. If smelt are present, they'll likely be in deeper water during the day, moving shallower at night. Ice fishing during the winter months might offer the best opportunity, using small jigs and lures. Be sure to check local regulations regarding smelt fishing, as specific rules may apply. This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path fishing adventure!
Plan a Trip to Missoula
See what's biting in Missoula, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Smelt
Smelt Fishing Regulations in Montana
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing license
Smelt may only be taken by hook and line. Check specific water body regulations for closures or restrictions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Montana state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to catch Smelt in Missoula, MT?
The best months for Smelt in Missoula are May.
What are the Smelt fishing regulations in Montana?
In Montana, the season is year-round, the daily bag limit is No limit, the minimum size is No size limit. Regulations change throughout the year, so confirm current rules with the Montana wildlife agency before fishing.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Smelt in Montana?
Fishing license. On a guided charter, anglers are often covered under the captain's license — confirm with your guide when booking.
More Smelt Fishing in Montana
Other Species to Fish in Missoula
Ready to Catch Smelt in Missoula?
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