Montana · Fishing
Fishing in Trego, Montana
Trego is a small community in the Flathead National Forest corridor of northwest Montana, and the fishing around it reflects that setting — quiet, accessible, and worth the detour if you know what you're looking for.
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View on mapFishing · 3 spots
Trego is a small community in the Flathead National Forest corridor of northwest Montana, and the fishing around it reflects that setting — quiet, accessible, and worth the detour if you know what you're looking for. The three main spots in the area are Dudley Slough, North Dickey Lake, and South Dickey Lake. Dudley Slough is a lake-fishing destination with the slower, warmer-water character you'd expect from a slough environment, while the two Dickey Lakes are surf-fishing spots, meaning you're working the shoreline rather than a boat. That distinction matters for how you pack and plan. None of these waters appear on Montana FWP's gold-medal or wild-trout designations, so set expectations accordingly — this is solid regional fishing, not destination trophy water. What it offers is accessibility and a lack of crowds, which in northwest Montana during summer can be worth a lot on its own. If you're passing through on Highway 93 or staging a longer trip into the Flathead, these lakes are worth an afternoon stop rather than a dedicated multi-day haul.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of fishing are North and South Dickey Lake set up for?
Both are listed as surf-fishing spots, meaning shore-based casting rather than boat fishing. Come prepared with gear suited for fishing from the bank — longer rods help you reach deeper water from the shoreline, and waders can be useful if the bank access is shallow.
What's Dudley Slough like compared to the Dickey Lakes?
Dudley Slough is classified as lake fishing rather than surf fishing, which typically means calmer, warmer water with different species composition than a colder mountain lake. Slough environments in this part of Montana often hold warm-water species alongside any stocked fish, so check current Montana FWP stocking reports before you go to know what's actually in there.
Do I need a Montana fishing license?
Yes. Anyone 12 or older fishing in Montana waters needs a valid Montana fishing license. Non-resident licenses are available through Montana FWP online or at local sporting goods stores. Conservation licenses are also required in addition to the fishing license for non-residents.
What's the best time of day to fish these lakes?
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are generally the most productive windows for shore fishing in northwest Montana. Midday in summer can slow things down significantly, especially on smaller lakes that warm up quickly.
Is this area suitable for beginners or kids?
Shore fishing at the Dickey Lakes is a reasonable setup for beginners and families since you're not managing a boat. Dudley Slough's calmer water also tends to be forgiving for newer anglers. Just check road and access conditions ahead of time, as some forest roads in this area can be rough depending on the season.
