Walleye Fishing in Montana

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Overview

Walleye are one of the most popular and dependable game fish in Montana. They’re challenging, great to eat, and widely available across the state’s larger lakes and reservoirs.

At Get The Net Outfitters, we guide anglers on Fort Peck Reservoir, Nelson Reservoir, and Tiber Reservoir, three of Montana’s most consistent and productive walleye fisheries. Our trips are built around helping clients enjoy a successful, comfortable day on the water while learning how to target these iconic fish effectively.

Whether you’re new to fishing or an experienced angler looking for a focused walleye trip, our guides handle every detail from locating fish to providing all rods, reels, and tackle.

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About the Species

Walleye (Sander vitreus) are known for their excellent eyesight, subtle strike, and light-sensitive nature. They prefer moderate water temperatures and are most active in low-light conditions such as dawn, dusk, or overcast days.

In Montana’s large reservoirs, walleye thrive on a steady diet of cisco, perch, and shiners. Most catches range from 16 to 25 inches, plenty trophy fish over 30 inches are landed each year on Fort Peck and Tiber.

Their combination of challenge and reward makes walleye a favorite for anglers who appreciate a more technical, skill-based fishing experience.

Where We Fish

Fort Peck Reservoir

Fort Peck is Montana’s premier walleye fishery. Its vast size, cool water, and extensive structure provide everything needed to support a thriving population. From spring through fall, walleye can be found around rocky points, flooded timber, and mid-lake humps.

Because Fort Peck changes daily with wind, temperature, and water clarity, our guides constantly adjust tactics to keep anglers on fish throughout the season. It’s one of the most dynamic and rewarding lakes in the region.

Nelson Reservoir

Located near Malta, Nelson Reservoir offers consistent action and strong numbers of walleye. Its smaller size and shallower depth make it easier to fish and a great choice for families or anglers looking for a relaxed day with steady bites. Nelson regularly produces fish in the 18–25 inch range, with occasional trophies.

Tiber Reservoir

Tiber Reservoir offers some of Montana’s most consistent walleye fishing, with healthy numbers and excellent size potential. The lake’s structure—points, flats, and rocky shorelines—creates ideal conditions for both jig and trolling presentations. Anglers here enjoy steady action and the chance to hook trophy-class fish, all while surrounded by the quiet beauty of north-central Montana.

The Guided Trip

A guided walleye trip with Get The Net Outfitters is about more than just catching fish it’s about making the process simple, enjoyable, and productive.

Your guide will handle everything: rods, tackle, bait, and boat setup. We focus on reading the day’s conditions, water temperature, wind, and light to determine where the fish are and how they’re feeding. Trips are typically eight hours or multi-day packages.

Throughout the day, your guide will share insights on fish behavior and location patterns, explain what’s working, and adjust techniques as conditions change. The result is a relaxed, hands-on day that balances learning and catching.

When to Fish

Walleye can be caught year-round, but the best fishing usually occurs from spring through early fall, when fish are most active and accessible.

  • Spring (April–June): Walleye move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively after ice-out. This is often the most productive time of year.
  • Summer (July–August): Fish transition to deeper structure but remain consistent with the right approach.
  • Fall (September–October): Cooler water brings walleye back to shallower zones, producing quality fish and lighter crowds.
  • Winter (December–March): Ice fishing opportunities exist on Fort Peck and Nelson for those interested in fishing through the ice.

Each season has its own character, and our guides plan every trip around current water conditions and fish activity.

Trip Details

  • Locations: Fort Peck Reservoir, Nelson Reservoir, and Tiber Reservoir
  • Season: Year-round (open water and ice fishing available)
  • Trip Length: Full-day (≈8 hours) or multi-day trips
  • Group Size: Up to 4 anglers per boat
  • Included: All rods, reels, tackle, and bait
  • Bring: Food, drinks, layered clothing, and a valid Montana fishing license
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Book a Guided Walleye Trip

Montana offers some of the best freshwater walleye fishing in the West, and our guides at Get The Net Outfitters are dedicated to helping you experience it firsthand.

From early spring spawning runs to late-summer deep-water patterns, we tailor every trip to the conditions and your goals. Whether you want to focus on numbers, size, or just a relaxing day on the lake, our team provides the equipment, knowledge, and local expertise to make it a success.

Call or text 406-230-1999 to reserve your guided walleye trip and enjoy a day of fishing on Montana’s premier lakes.

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