Glacier Park Fishing
Many people wonder why the National Park Service no longer plants fish in park waters after this was done for many decades to enhance sport fishing. The reason is simple. The introduction of exotic game fishes was found to be detrimental to Glacier's native fishes. more info
Glacier Park Fishing Listings: (add your listing)
Glacier Outdoor Center - Park Fishing Advice
Adjacent to the west entrance of Glacier Park, we are the area's leading rental and outdoor center for all things fishing, inside the park our out. Maps, licenses, reports.
(406) 888-5454
Predation and competition for space and food adversely affected several native species, and hybridization between indigenous and non-native species of fish also occurred. The native westslope cutthroat trout has been all but eliminated from several lakes, where it was once the dominant species.
Today the National Park Service is engaged in fisheries research to determine the extent of damage to native fish populations, and to explore possible means for re-establishing native fishes in some waters where they have been eliminated or replaced by hybrid populations. Paramount importance is attached to the goal of ensuring the future survival of Glacier National Park's unique native fishes for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
Licenses
No license or permits are required to fish inside the boundaries of Glacier National Park. Fishermen need to stop at a Visitor Center or Ranger Station to obtain a current copy of park fishing regulations.
Season
General park season is from the third Saturday in May, through November 30, with some exceptions and regulations may change from year to year.
Tips
The success of a fisherman depends on skill, lures used, weather conditions, time of year, whether a boat is used or not, and the body of water fished. The following are some helpful tips:
Waterfalls prevented fish from naturally reaching many streams and lakes, If you are going to fish, check before making a long hike.
Fish usually feed in the early morning and evening.
Lake trout (mackinaw) are in deep water during the hot summer months, and are best caught by trolling.
Fish are on the bottom when the water is high and murky. During this time they feed on materials dislodged from the bottom. Lures that imitate insect larvae are most successful.
Later in the season, when streams are clear, flies are better. The best fly fishing is when a fisherman can match a local insect hatch.
*Information provided by the Park Service
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