Montana · Fishing
Fishing in Babb, Montana
Babb sits at the northeast corner of Glacier National Park, and the fishing here is almost entirely lake-based — which makes sense given the terrain.
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View on mapFishing · 9 spots
Babb sits at the northeast corner of Glacier National Park, and the fishing here is almost entirely lake-based — which makes sense given the terrain. The nine lakes within reach of town range from the large and accessible, like Lower Saint Mary Lake and Lake Sherburne, to the backcountry destinations that require a serious hike, like Mokowanis Lake and Carcajou Lake. Lower Saint Mary Lake is the easiest starting point for most visitors, with shoreline access near St. Mary Campground and enough room to spread out. Lake Sherburne, just inside the park boundary on the Many Glacier road, is another solid option that doesn't require a long approach. If you're willing to put in miles on trail, Swiftcurrent Ridge Lake, Bullhead Lake, Miche Wabun Lake, and Otatso Lake reward the effort with far less fishing pressure. The fish you're after in these waters are primarily cutthroat trout and whitefish, with some lakes also holding lake trout and northern pike in the lower-elevation reservoirs. This is not a destination for someone chasing stocked fish in a manicured pond — the setting is wild, the regulations are strict, and the fishing rewards patience over technique.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Montana fishing license to fish near Babb?
Yes, a Montana fishing license is required for waters outside Glacier National Park. Inside the park, you do not need a state license, but you do need a free Glacier National Park fishing permit, which is available at visitor centers and ranger stations. Check current regulations before you go, as rules can vary by specific water body.
Which lakes near Babb are easiest to reach without a long hike?
Lower Saint Mary Lake and Lake Sherburne are your best bets for drive-up or short-walk access. St. Mary Campground sits right along Lower Saint Mary Lake and gives you direct shoreline fishing. Lake Sherburne is accessible via the Many Glacier road with minimal walking required.
What are the backcountry lake options, and how hard are they to reach?
Mokowanis Lake, Carcajou Lake, Miche Wabun Lake, Swiftcurrent Ridge Lake, Bullhead Lake, and Otatso Lake all require trail travel ranging from a few miles to a full day's hike. Bullhead Lake is reachable via the Swiftcurrent Pass trail and is one of the more popular backcountry options. Mokowanis and Carcajou are deeper into the backcountry and see significantly less pressure.
What time of year is best for fishing around Babb?
Late June through September is the practical window, since many of the higher lakes hold snow well into spring and trail access can be limited. July and August offer the most reliable conditions across all nine lakes. Early morning and evening are consistently the most productive times of day, especially on the more accessible lakes where midday boat and foot traffic picks up.
What gear should I bring for fishing these lakes?
A light to medium spinning setup handles most situations here, with small spinners, spoons, and dry flies all producing on cutthroat trout. If you're targeting lake trout in the larger reservoirs like Lake Sherburne, heavier gear and deeper presentations are more effective. Pack in everything you need for backcountry lakes — there are no outfitters or tackle shops in Babb itself, so stock up in St. Mary or Browning before you head out.
