Montana · Fishing
Fishing in Jackson, Montana
Jackson, Montana sits in the Big Hole Valley, a remote stretch of southwest Montana where the fishing options near town lean toward still water rather than moving rivers.
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View on mapFishing · 3 spots
Jackson, Montana sits in the Big Hole Valley, a remote stretch of southwest Montana where the fishing options near town lean toward still water rather than moving rivers. The three spots covered on this page — Slag-a-melt Lakes, Berry Lake, and Blanchard Pond — are all lake or pond fisheries, which makes them a different kind of trip than chasing the Big Hole River a few miles away. Still-water fishing here tends to reward patience and early mornings over technical fly presentation, and the relative quiet of this corner of Montana means you're unlikely to share a bank with a crowd. Access roads in this part of Beaverhead County can be rough and seasonally dependent, so checking conditions before you drive out is worth the five-minute phone call. None of these waters appear in the state's gold medal or wild trout designations, so expectations should be set accordingly — these are solid local fisheries, not destination trophy waters. That said, for anglers staying in Jackson or passing through on a longer Big Hole Valley trip, they offer a low-pressure half-day option that doesn't require a guide or a drift boat.
Frequently asked questions
What type of fishing are Slag-a-melt Lakes, Berry Lake, and Blanchard Pond best suited for?
All three are still-water fisheries — lakes and a pond — so bank fishing or a small float tube works better here than wading gear. Spinning tackle and basic fly setups both translate well to this kind of water.
When is the best time of year to fish these waters near Jackson?
Ice-off in late spring, typically May into early June, is usually the most productive window for still-water fishing in this part of Montana. Late summer can slow down as water temperatures rise, and fall can pick back up before the lakes freeze again.
What are the best times of day to fish?
Early morning and the last two hours before sunset are consistently the most active periods for lake fishing. Midday in summer is generally slow, especially if the sun is high and the water is clear.
Do I need a Montana fishing license?
Yes. Anyone 12 or older needs a valid Montana fishing license to fish these waters. Licenses are available online through Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks or at local sporting goods retailers. Check the current FWP regulations for any specific rules tied to individual water bodies before you go.
How do I get to these fishing spots, and do I need a high-clearance vehicle?
Jackson is already well off the main highway corridor, and access roads to smaller lakes and ponds in this area can be unpaved and rough, particularly after spring runoff or rain. A high-clearance vehicle is a reasonable precaution for at least some of these spots. Calling the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest office or a local outfitter in Jackson before heading out will give you the most current road conditions.
