General Information Montana, known as Big Sky Country, was first discovered by explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they searched for a water route to the Pacific Ocean. Their journals referred to the natural wonders of Montana, and to this day it remains one of the most important states in the continental U.S. for fishing and hunting due to its natural setting. Complete with the rugged high country of the Rockies, thick virgin forests, and lush grassy plains, Montana is the envy of all who appreciate and respect the great outdoors and offers a naturally pristine setting for those who seek the enjoyment of unparalleled trout fishing and trophy big-game hunting in the U.S. Capital City: Helena Largest City: Billings National Parks and Forests: Bighorn Canyon National Recreational Area Bitterroot National Forest Custer National Forest Flathead National Forest Gallatin National Forest Glacier National Park Helena National Forest Lewis & Clark National Forest Lolo National Forest Sport Fishing Montana's many lakes, streams and rivers, fed by the icy-cold runoff of the Rockies and many underground springs provide one of the most popular destinations for trout fishing anywhere. The majority of prime waters for trout fishing are in the western part of the state. Three major river drainages provide much of the better trout fishing in the state--the Missouri, the Yellowstone, and the Columbia rivers. The Madison, Gallatin, Big Hole, Marias, and Sun rivers, and Spring Creek, Great Falls and Rock Creek are just a sampling of the numerous blue-ribbon trout waters Montana has within its boundaries. Hunting Montana's population of elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, moose, deer, black bear, and pronghorn antelope outnumber the total number of citizens in Montana. It is also home for the largest grizzly bear population in the lower 48 states. Montana's rich natural landscape provides habitat for populations of upland birds and waterfowl such as ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge, ptarmigan, pheasant, chukar, quail, ducks and geese. For information on licensing, seasons, limits, rules and regulations, please visit the Montana Natural Resource Information System website.