Fishing Canyon Ferry Lake

AKA: Canyon Ferry Reservoir

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Canyon Ferry Lake, MT

---

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Thanks to good an excellent stocking program and the fertility of the water here, fishing for rainbow trout in Canyon Ferry Lake continues to be very successful for local anglers. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

---

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to good fisheries management, a healthy population of walleye are thriving in the waters of Canyon Ferry Lake, with fish over 10 pounds not uncommon. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower and closer to shore. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.

---

Yellow Perch Fishing

Canyon Ferry Lake continues to have a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. They are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing as well. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line.

---

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, brown trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch and northern pike at Canyon Ferry Lake in Montana.

Canyon Ferry Lake Fishing Video

Canyon Ferry Lake, located near Helena, Montana, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts due to its diverse fish populations and extensive fishing opportunities. The lake covers over 26,000 acres and stretches across the Missouri River, offering anglers a vast expanse of water to explore.

Considerable, annual stocking of trout make Canyon Ferry Lake a favorite of trout anglers in the west-central part of Montana. This 33,500-acre lake is known for fertile water supporting healthy populations of many fish species.

One of the most sought-after fish species in Canyon Ferry Lake is walleye. This predatory fish is abundant in the lake and provides exciting angling opportunities. Anglers often target walleye using techniques such as trolling with crankbaits, jigging with live bait or artificial lures, and casting near underwater structures. Canyon Ferry Lake has gained a reputation for producing trophy-sized walleye, making it a favorite among anglers seeking a challenging catch.

Rainbow trout is another popular fish species in Canyon Ferry Lake. The lake receives regular trout stockings, ensuring a healthy population for anglers to pursue. Anglers can target rainbow trout using various methods, including trolling with spoons or spinners, casting with bait or lures, or fly fishing. The abundance of rainbow trout makes Canyon Ferry Lake an attractive destination for both novice and experienced anglers.

Canyon Ferry Lake is also home to other fish species, including yellow perch, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Yellow perch provide excellent opportunities for anglers seeking a delicious meal, while northern pike and smallmouth bass offer thrilling battles. These fish can be targeted using a range of techniques such as casting with jigs or crankbaits, using live bait, or fly fishing.

Anglers visiting Canyon Ferry Lake should be aware of fishing regulations and licensing requirements. It's important to practice responsible fishing, including following catch limits and size restrictions, as well as practicing catch-and-release when appropriate, to ensure the sustainability of the fish populations and the preservation of the lake's ecosystem.

Canyon Ferry Lake's diverse fish species, breathtaking scenery, and ample fishing and boating opportunities make it a beloved destination for anglers in Montana. Whether it's chasing walleye, casting for trout, or enjoying the thrill of reeling in northern pike, Canyon Ferry Lake provides an unforgettable fishing experience in the heart of Montana's scenic beauty.

In addition to trout, bass, sunfish, perch and pike are popular with fishing enthusiasts. 76 miles of shoreline wrap this fishing gem, which is a 27-mile long reservoir on the Missouri River. Numerous locations around the lake provide access for fishing from the bank near picnic areas, hiking trails and campgrounds. In winter, once the ice is safe, there is excellent ice fishing for trout and perch. There are five boat launch ramps for all size boats from canoes and kayaks to fishing, pleasure and pontoon boats. Marinas, stores and other amenities offer virtually everything necessary for enjoying a day, or an extended vacation at Canyon Ferry Reservoir. Boat rentals, camping and lodging are all available at the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Canyon Ferry Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Canyon Ferry Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Canyon Ferry Lake, with multiple boat ramps available for anglers to launch their boats. The lake's expansive size and open waters provide ample space for boating enthusiasts to explore different areas and access prime fishing spots. Whether it's trolling for walleye or leisurely cruising the lake's scenic shorelines, boating enhances the fishing experience on Canyon Ferry Lake.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Goose Bay Marina & Campground
Rentals: Kayaks
406 266-3065

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Goose Bay Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Goose Bay Lane, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Hellgate Gulch Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Hellgate Canyon Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Shannon Boat Launch Ramp
Located at the north end of the lake, off County Road 284, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Silos Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Silos Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.

White Earth Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Beaver Creek Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Marinas

Goose Bay Marina & Campground
300 Goose Bay Lane
Townsend, MT 59644
406 266-3065

Kim's Marina & Resort
8015 Canyon Ferry Road
Helena, MT - 59602
406 475-3723

The Silos Marina & Campground
82 Silos Road
Townsend MT 59644
406 980-0266

Fishing Guides On Canyon Ferry Lake

Steinmetz Outfitters - trout, walleye

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Montana Fishing License.

Camping opportunities can be found in several campgrounds surrounding Canyon Ferry Lake, offering convenient access to fishing spots and stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. These campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and boat ramps, ensuring a comfortable stay for anglers and their families.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Court Sheriff Campground - 406 475-3921

Riverside Campground - 406 475-3921

Hellgate Campground - 406 475-3921

Coulter Campground - 406 449-5201

Silos Campground - 406 266-3100

Townsend Campground - 406 266-3100

Roadrunner RV Park - 406 266-4991

Canyon Ferry Lake MT Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Canyon Ferry Lake
Kim's Marina & Resort
8015 Canyon Ferry Rd
Helena, MT 59602
406 475-3723

Fishing lakes in each state.

070224