Summary
John’s Fishing Access Site on the Yellowstone River near Columbus, Montana, offers excellent shore and boat fishing. Shore access is easy with gravel bars and bank spots; there’s a boat ramp for float access. Anglers target brown and rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, and occasionally sauger. Best fishing is spring and fall; summer brings good topwater action early and late. Use nymphs, streamers, and spinners for trout; worms or jigs for whitefish and sauger. Focus on eddies, undercut banks, and riffle seams. The river here is dynamic—look for deep runs and slower water behind rocks for consistent bites.
Petty Creek Fishing Access
Tarkio Fishing Access
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clark Fork Below Missoula Mt
|
2310cfs |
Flathead River At Perma Mt
|
8540cfs |
Bitterroot River Near Missoula Mt
|
1010cfs |
Clark Fork Above Missoula Mt
|
1140cfs |
Clark Fork Near Plains Mt
|
11300cfs |
Clark Fork At St. Regis Mt
|
2840cfs |
Angling Safety Guidelines
Check local fishing rules, seasons, size limits, and license requirements to ensure legal and sustainable angling.
Handle Fish Responsibly
Use wet hands, minimize air exposure, and release fish gently to improve survival rates when practicing catch-and-release.
Choose the Right Gear
Match your rod, line, and tackle to the species and conditions to increase success and reduce unnecessary harm to fish.
Respect the Waterway
Avoid disturbing habitat, prevent bank erosion, and keep a safe distance from spawning areas to protect ecosystems.
Keep It Clean
Pack out all line, hooks, bait containers, and trash—discarded gear can injure wildlife and degrade waterways.
Related Links
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Petty Creek FAS
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Big Pine Fishing Access
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Big Pine FAS
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Kreis Pond Campground
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Kreis Pond
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Forks FAS
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Isaac Creek