The Outdoor Wire

FISHING

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks' Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) program is hosting an ice fishing workshop in Havre on February 13-14 for women 18 and older. The two-part workshop includes an indoor session on ice fishing essentials and a hands-on outdoor session on a frozen pond or lake, with registration costing $15.

Read Full Release →
Friday, January 30, 2026

Big Bite Baits has launched the Spotlight Minnow, designed by pro Drew Gill for Forward Facing Sonar fishing. Available in three sizes with snappy action and rolling profile, the lure is now available at Baits.com.

Read Full Release →

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provides essential ice fishing safety guidelines, including maintaining minimum 4-inch ice thickness, wearing life jackets, using ice cleats, and dressing in layers. Additional recommendations include carrying ice picks, fishing with others, and avoiding alcohol to prevent hypothermia.

Read Full Release →
Thursday, January 29, 2026

Yamamoto Baits has launched three new fuzzy baits featuring threaded skirt materials: the Fuzzy Senko in 4" and 5" sizes, the Fuzzy Nuki in 2.5" and 3.5" versions, and the compact 1.5" Fuzzy Nut. All products are available at Baits.com.

Read Full Release →

AGFC fisheries biologists urge anglers pursuing trophy bass to properly handle fish caught from deep water, which can experience barotrauma. Jeremy Risley, the AGFC's Black Bass Program coordinator, and Will Lancett, Arkansas Legacy Lunker program coordinator, provide guidance on using venting tools, weighted fin clips, and proper handling techniques to maximize fish survival for the Arkansas Legacy Lunker program.

Read Full Release →
Monday, January 5, 2026

Bonehead Tackle, part of GSM Outdoors, introduced two new fishing products: the Tangle-Free Weight designed to eliminate wrapped lines, and the Crappie Scope Head featuring a lead keel for stable horizontal presentation with Mustad hooks.

Read Full Release →
Monday, January 5, 2026

Cuda Fishing, in partnership with Mark Zona, has introduced a new titanium tools line for 2025, featuring the Mark Zona Series 8.75" Ti Needle Nose Split Ring Pliers, 5.25" Ti Mini Snip, 3" Ti Micro Scissor, and 5.5" Ti Bonded Large Braid Shear designed for durability and performance.

Read Full Release →
Monday, January 5, 2026

Northland Tackle introduced the Manitoba Mullet jig designed for large predators like trout, pike, and muskies, available in four colors and two sizes. The company also expanded its Smeltinator jig, Buck-Shot Rattle Spoon, and Smeltinator Underspin Jig lines with new sizes and colors.

Read Full Release →

Any fish house left unoccupied on North Dakota waters must be made of materials that allow it to float. In addition, fish houses do not require a license. The North Dakota’s free ice fishing weekend is Dec. 27-28, and resident anglers may fish those two days without a license.

Read Full Release →
Tuesday, December 9, 2025

In the world of freshwater angling there are people who become focused on a species or a given style of fishing. There are walleye guys, bass guys, muskie guys, panfish guys, and don’t forget the carp guys. And, of course, each category has gals too.

Read Full Release →

When you’re rigging for winter bass, protecting your hands, head and feet is just as critical as picking the right lure. Cold fingers, a frozen scalp, or icy feet will rob you of casting accuracy, reduce your feel for light bites, and ultimately shorten your time on the water.

Read Full Release →