Fall protection is a top priority when working at height or in hazardous environments. Appropriate anchorage systems play an essential role in protecting workers exposed to fall risks. Whether working in construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, or any other industry where employees are at heights, selecting the right anchorage connector is essential for maintaining both safety and compliance.

This article details various types of anchorage connectors, from portable anchors to fixed systems, their applications in different industries, and why choosing the right system for your job site is essential. We will also discuss the role of self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) in fall protection systems and how to verify compatibility between anchorage systems and SRLs for optimal performance.

What Are Anchorage Systems?

Anchorage systems are vital components of a fall protection system. They are designed to secure the personal fall arrest system to a stable and reliable structure. The anchorage connector is the point of attachment workers rely on for safety. These systems can be portable or fixed, and each type has specific use cases depending on the work environment.

For effective fall protection, the anchorage system must be capable of supporting the maximum anticipated force in the event of a fall. This is why it is vital to carefully evaluate your options and choose the system best suited to your specific job site.

Types of Anchorage Connectors

Portable Anchors

Portable anchors are a versatile option, ideal for situations where a fixed anchor point is unavailable or impractical. They are designed to be easily moved from one location to another, providing flexibility and convenience at various job sites. Portable anchors come in multiple forms, including: 

Fixed Anchors

Fixed anchorage connectors are permanently installed into a structure and designed to provide a long-term fall protection solution. These fall protection anchors are often used in environments where workers routinely access the same locations, such as:

Key Considerations When Choosing an Anchorage System

Compliance with Safety Standards

Compliance with national and international safety standards is essential when selecting an anchorage system. Fall protection systems are regulated by agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which have strict requirements for anchorage system design, installation, and maintenance. Ensuring your anchorage system meets these standards is vital for your workers' safety and your business's legal compliance.

Load Capacity

The load capacity of an anchorage system determines the maximum weight or force it can withstand in the event of a fall. It is vital to choose an anchorage system with an adequate load capacity for your job site, taking into account the number of workers and their specific tasks. Most anchorage points must withstand at least 5,000 pounds of force per worker connected to the system. However, some specialized systems may have higher capacity ratings.

Durability and Environmental Factors

The environment in which the anchorage system is used plays a significant role in the selection process. For example, you will need anchors made of corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel in coastal or marine environments. In high-temperature or hazardous areas, anchors may need to be designed to withstand extreme conditions. Consider the exposure to environmental factors such as weather, chemicals, and temperature when choosing a fixed or portable anchorage system.

Ease of Installation

Whether using portable or fixed systems, the ease of installation is another important factor. Portable anchors should be easy to set up and remove, while fixed anchors should be installed with minimal disruption to the existing work process. The installation process should also consider the frequency of use—if the system needs to be installed and removed often, portable systems are likely the best choice.

Compatibility with Fall Protection Equipment

When selecting anchorage systems, it's essential to guarantee compatibility with other components of the fall protection system, such as safety harnesses, lanyards, and Self-Retracting Lanyards (SRLs). For example, SRLs require compatible anchor points for optimal performance. These lanyards are designed to retract automatically when not in use, keeping slack to a minimum and reducing the risk of a fall. If the anchor point is incompatible with the SRL, it may not retract properly, rendering the system ineffective.

How SRLs Work with Anchorage Systems

Self-retracting lanyards are a vital part of modern fall protection systems. They offer greater mobility and flexibility than traditional lanyards and help reduce fall risks by automatically retracting as the worker moves. However, to achieve the full benefits of an SRL, the anchorage system must be compatible with its design.

When choosing an anchorage system to use with an SRL, ensure the anchor point is located directly above the worker’s head or as close as possible. SRLs are designed to work best when the fall-arresting force is applied in a vertical direction. Additionally, the anchor point should be rated for use with SRLs and provide sufficient strength to absorb the forces generated during a fall.

Remember, no matter what type of anchorage system you choose—whether portable or fixed—the key to effective fall protection lies in proper planning, installation, and regular maintenance. By following these best practices, you can safeguard your workers and guarantee your job site complies with all necessary safety regulations.

TOWNSEND – York’s Islands Fishing Access Site near Townsend has closed due to flooding and unsafe access conditions.

An ice jam on a section of the Missouri River has caused ice and water to flood the site’s boat ramp, campground and other areas. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will lift the closure when conditions allow.

Additional site closures are in effect or may be required later for other sites around the state, depending on weather and river flows. Current restrictions and closures of FWP-managed lands and waterbodies can be found here.

Recreationists are encouraged to use caution when visiting rivers because of unseen hazards, as well as flow and ice conditions that can change suddenly. For more information about river recreation safety, click here. 

On February 17th, 2025, at 6:11pm, Gallatin County 911 Dispatch received a call reporting a missing person who had been snowmobiling in the Taylor’s Fork area near Big Sky. The caller reported that they were snowmobiling with a family member who had gotten stuck in a lower basin area. The caller thought their family member had made it out but then was unable to find them. After a couple of hours of searching and not locating the other snowmobile, the caller contacted Gallatin County 911 Dispatch to seek assistance. The Big Sky section of the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) was activated.

The missing person eventually contacted 911, which provided coordinates to their location. GCSSAR teams met at Sage Creek Trailhead, where the missing party had originally left from. One Team left on snowmobiles to look for the missing person while another stood by in case there were other needs. At about 8:43pm, searchers located the missing person, who was all right without any injuries. GCSSAR members escorted them safely back to the trailhead.

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind all who recreate in the backcountry that not only is it a good practice to go with another person but also make sure to plan how you are going to keep in contact with each other in areas without cellular service such as a two-way radio, or GPS messaging device.

White Sulphur Springs, Mont. – The 14th Red Ants Pants Music Festival announced its 2025 festival lineup today featuring fresh off a GRAMMY win, headliner Gillian Welch & David Rawlings as well as Steve Earle and Reckless Kelly, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Stephen Wilson Jr., Brittney Spencer, and more!

Thanks to past attendance at the festival, the Red Ants Pants Foundation has delivered more than $190,000 in community grants to more than 100 entities across Montana to support mission-driven work. The 14th Red Ants Pants Music Festival will take place July 24 – 27, 2025 on the Jackson Ranch just outside of White Sulphur Springs, Montana. The FREE Street Dance on Main Street kicks off the festival weekend on Thursday, July 24th featuring Kalyn Beasley.

In addition, the Red Ants Pants Music Festival will include 14 side stage performances along with Demo Area activities designed to teach, showcase, and celebrate traditional work skills.

“We are so excited about our 2025 lineup that we decided to release it earlier than ever this year. From GRAMMY award-winning Americana greats to some incredible rising stars, it’s an honor to bring folks together in the middle of Montana,” said festival producer Sarah Calhoun. “In addition to this incredible lineup, one thing that sets our festival apart is the mission behind the music. We want to thank Red Ants Pants Music Festival fans for their support as ticket sales help invest in the work of the Red Ants Pants Foundation to increase women’s leadership, support working family farms and ranches, and enrich rural communities.”

Named the “Montana Event of the Year” by the Montana Office of Tourism, the Red Ants Pants Music Festival is known for its lasting impact of mission-based work.

2025 Red Ants Pants Music Festival Lineup

Gillian Welch & David Rawlings

Steve Earle and Reckless Kelly

St. Paul & The Broken Bones

Stephen Wilson Jr.

Brittney Spencer

The National Parks

Wonder Women of Country

Humbird

East Nash Grass

Caleb Caudle & The Sweet Critters

Jon Muq

Kellie Loder

Tylor & the Train Robbers

Marcedes Carroll

Foreshadow

Give It To ‘Em FLORABELLE!

Plus 14 Side Stage Performances!

Also including... Agriculture and Work Skill DemonstrationsLocal Food, Beer, Wine, Art and CraftsKids tent and activitiesBeard and Moustache and Crosscut Saw Competitions! 

Life in a big city has its thrills—fast-paced days, endless entertainment, and the constant hum of movement. But for many, the charm starts to wear thin. The high cost of living, relentless traffic, and the feeling of being just another face in the crowd push people to seek something different. Small towns, with their open spaces, tight-knit communities, and slower rhythms, offer an appealing alternative.

Bozeman, Montana, is one such destination that has drawn former city dwellers seeking a better balance. Its blend of outdoor adventure, community spirit, and growing opportunities makes it a desirable place to settle down. However, moving from a sprawling metropolis to a smaller town comes with adjustments. The transition can be rewarding, but it’s important to know what to expect and how to prepare.

Why People Are Leaving Big Cities for Smaller Towns

Across the country, more people are leaving big cities in search of something different. Skyrocketing home prices, congestion, and an increasing desire for a slower pace of life have pushed many to consider smaller towns where the cost of living is lower and the sense of community feels stronger. The trend has accelerated in recent years, especially as remote work has made it easier to live based on lifestyle preferences rather than job locations.

Cities like Atlanta, Seattle, and Los Angeles have seen steady outmigration as residents look for more space and affordability. According to U.S. Census data, major urban centers have experienced population declines, while smaller cities and exurban areas—those on the fringes of metro regions—have seen notable growth. Some people relocate just outside city limits, while others seek mid-sized towns like Bozeman, where they can enjoy a balance of outdoor recreation and a thriving local economy.

But affordability isn’t the only factor driving the move. The Census report highlights that many city dwellers feel constrained by urban density, long commutes, and limited access to green spaces. Smaller towns offer something different—neighbors recognize each other, local businesses thrive on community support, and nature isn’t a distant escape but an everyday part of life.

Adjusting to Small-Town Life: What to Expect

Moving to a smaller town brings a welcome change of pace, but it also requires some adjustment. In big cities, convenience is built into daily life—24-hour grocery stores, endless restaurant choices, and a steady calendar of events. In a place like Bozeman, life moves differently. Businesses may close earlier, the selection of shops and services is smaller, and entertainment options aren’t as vast as those in a major metro area.

One of the biggest shifts is the social landscape. In a smaller town, people are more familiar with one another. It’s common to run into the same faces at the coffee shop, the grocery store, or a local event. While this creates a strong sense of community, it can take time for newcomers to feel fully integrated. Getting involved in local activities, supporting small businesses, and taking part in town traditions can make the transition smoother.

Another key difference is the emphasis on outdoor recreation. In Bozeman, the outdoors isn’t just for weekend getaways—it’s a core part of life. Hiking, skiing, and fishing replace the entertainment and nightlife options that big cities offer. For those used to a fast-paced urban environment, the change can feel drastic at first. However, those who embrace it often find a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Preparing for the Move: Key Considerations

Moving from a big city to a small town often requires a shift in mindset and careful planning. Housing, transportation, and employment are all different in a smaller community, and preparing in advance can make the transition easier.

One of the first things to consider is housing. Homes are more affordable in many small towns than in major cities, but inventory can be limited. Bozeman’s popularity has driven up demand, and while prices are lower than in places like Seattle or San Francisco, they may be higher than expected for a town of its size. Those looking to buy should research the local market and be prepared to act quickly when a good property becomes available.

Transportation is another factor. While public transit is a reliable option in most big cities, in a town like Bozeman, a personal vehicle is almost essential. While biking and walking are common in certain areas, the distances between home, work, and outdoor destinations can be significant. Winter driving is also something to plan for—snow and icy roads make an all-wheel-drive vehicle a smart investment.

Employment is another key consideration for those who aren’t retired or working remotely. While Bozeman has a growing economy, job opportunities are more specialized than in a major metropolitan area. Many people who are moving from big cities bring their jobs with them through remote work. In contrast, others start businesses or shift into industries that thrive in smaller communities, such as tourism, outdoor recreation, or local services.

Making the Move Smooth: Hiring the Right Movers

Relocating from a big city to a small town comes with unique challenges, especially when it involves a long-distance move. Packing up an entire household, coordinating transportation, and ensuring that belongings arrive safely can feel overwhelming. A professional moving company can make the process easier, particularly for those coming from larger metro areas like Atlanta, Denver, or Seattle.

For those moving from Georgia, employing experienced movers Atlanta residents usually work with can make the relocation far less stressful. Professional movers handle everything from packing delicate items to transporting furniture safely, allowing families to focus on settling into their new home instead of worrying about logistics.

Timing is another important factor. Moving to a place like Bozeman means preparing for seasonal changes. Harsh winter conditions can make travel and unloading more difficult, so scheduling a move in the spring, summer, or early fall can help avoid complications. Additionally, securing a moving company well in advance ensures better availability, especially during peak moving seasons.

A smooth transition starts with careful planning, and having professionals handle the heavy lifting can make all the difference.

Settling Into Your New Community

Adjusting to life in a small town isn’t just about unpacking boxes—it’s about becoming part of the community. Unlike big cities, where anonymity is common, smaller towns thrive on personal connections. A friendly nod at the coffee shop, a conversation at the farmer’s market, or a shared love for the outdoors can quickly turn strangers into neighbors.

One of the best ways to settle in is by supporting local businesses. Bozeman has a vibrant small business scene, from family-owned restaurants to independent shops and craft breweries. Shopping locally not only helps the economy but also creates opportunities to meet people and integrate into the community. Regular visits to the same cafés or bookstores often lead to familiar faces and friendly conversations, making it easier to feel at home.

Getting involved in town events and outdoor activities is another way to feel connected. Whether it’s a local festival, a volunteer opportunity, or a group hike, participating in what makes Bozeman unique helps newcomers establish roots. The city’s strong outdoor culture means there’s always something to do, whether it’s skiing in winter or fly fishing in the warmer months.

For a deeper look at the places that make Bozeman feel like home, check out this guide to Bozeman’s cozy corners. From welcoming cafés to community gathering spaces, these spots help newcomers feel connected from the start.

Conclusion

Moving from a big city to a small town is more than just a change of address—it’s a shift in lifestyle. The slower pace, tighter-knit community, and greater connection to the outdoors can be a refreshing change for those looking to escape the noise and congestion of urban life.

The transition can be rewarding with thoughtful preparation, an open mind, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. Whether you enjoy a quiet morning at a locally owned café, explore nearby trails, or get to know the neighbors, settling into a small town offers opportunities to build a life that feels more personal, intentional, and connected.

BOZEMAN – Bozeman Public Library is excited to announce a new downloadable audiobook service, Blackstone Unlimited Audio by Blackstone Publishing.

“Audiobooks make up one of our most popular collections at Bozeman Public Library. To help us meet this growing need, we are offering a new service: Blackstone Unlimited,” stated Carmen Clark, Department Head of Collection Management. “We are very excited to expand our downloadable audiobook selection by offering this new service. What makes Blackstone Unlimited different is that our patrons will have access to unlimited checkouts, no holds necessary.”

Boasting the largest always-available collection of Adult and Children’s downloadable audiobooks, Blackstone Unlimited Audio offers over 7000 titles, with a commitment to continuously expanding its offerings. This unparalleled library empowers patrons to delve into the works of celebrated authors such as Karin Slaughter, M.C. Beaton, Jeneva Rose, Neill DeGrasse Tyson, Donna Leon, Hugh Howey, and James Clavell.

Whether commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home, library users can enjoy seamless listening on any device; their next great listen is always at their fingertips.

Those seeking more information can contact Bozeman Public Library at (406) 582-2410 or visit bozemanlibrary.org.

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About Blackstone Publishing: Founded in 1987, Blackstone continues to pioneer new and creative ways to bring stories to life. The authors published are as varied as the books themselves, with works by some of the biggest names in literature including Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Ann Rand, Ian Fleming, George Orwell, Karin Slaughter, and many more.

About Bozeman Public Library: Bozeman Public Library is a dynamic community hub that offers programs and resources that inspire curiosity, exploration and connection.

The Gallatin County annex building, located at 215 W. Mendenhall St. in Bozeman, has been temporarily closed due to structural issues. This building, which houses employees from the Gallatin City-County Health Department, including the Bozeman WIC office, and the Gallatin County Local Water Quality District, was deemed unsafe after a roof truss was compromised. All occupants were evacuated safely. To ensure the safety of our employees and the public, the building will remain unoccupied until further structural analysis is completed. We kindly ask everyone to avoid the premises while the county continues to evaluate the situation.

“The safety and wellbeing of our employees and the public is our top priority," stated Lori Christenson, Gallatin City-County Health Officer. "Structural engineers are currently reviewing the damage, and we will provide more information as soon as it becomes available. Employees have temporarily relocated to other county office buildings or are working offsite as the building’s safety is being assessed. We are committed to maintaining uninterrupted services."

If you have any questions or need assistance from these departments, use the following contact information:
• Health Services: 406-582-3100 or hs@gallatin.mt.gov
• Environmental Health Services (including Water Quality District): 406-582-3120       or ehs@gallatin.mt.gov
• WIC: 406-582-3100 or WIC@gallatin.mt.gov

The Gallatin City-County Health Department’s website remains the best source for information on all services provided by the health department. Please visit www.healthygallatin.org for more information on local resources and services.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to address this issue and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

KALISPELL — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, in partnership with BNSF Railway and Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Foundation, is proud to announce the completion of a plan to enhance grizzly bear conservation and conflict reduction efforts in northwest and north-central Montana.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recently approved BNSF’s proposed Habitat Conservation Plan submitted as part of the company’s application for an Incidental Take Permit. This landmark plan, developed in collaboration with FWP and others, outlines measures BNSF will take to reduce potential impacts to the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE) grizzly bear population from human-related mortalities. BNSF will provide $2.9 million to support personnel, equipment and education to reduce human-bear conflicts and grizzly bear mortalities in the ecosystem.

Key components of the plan include:

• Conflict Response and Reduction: BNSF will provide funding for additional seasonal grizzly bear technicians employed by FWP. These technicians will work throughout the NCDE on public outreach, conflict response and attractant reduction programs. The funding will provide for additional equipment such as electric fences and bear resistant containers to reduce human-bear conflicts.
• Monitoring Equipment: BNSF will fund additional equipment, such as radio collars and remote cameras, to aid in monitoring bears and reducing conflicts.
• Waste Management: BNSF will fund efforts to improve waste disposal areas and otherwise reduce attractants on public and private property.
• Livestock Conflict Reduction: BNSF will fund measures to reduce livestock depredation and human-bear conflicts.
• Community Engagement and Education: BNSF will provide funding for conflict mitigation efforts in the NCDE through education and outreach efforts, including events and information on living and recreating safely in bear country, reducing attractants, and how to use bear spray.

Since 1991, BNSF has collaborated with tribal, federal, state and local government agencies, conservation groups and industry to address and mitigate concerns about grizzly bear mortality incidental to railroad operations. These efforts include agreements to implement programs and measures to minimize bear and train conflicts, primarily by identifying and removing attractants from the right-of-way and installing deterrents when needed in high-risk areas. As part of this, BNSF has implemented a rapid-response program for grain spills, historically a primary attractant for bears to railways, and expanded bear education for railway employees.

The habitat conservation plan formalizes these ongoing efforts by BNSF to promote grizzly bear conservation by supporting wildlife agencies’ management and monitoring programs. 

“BNSF is grateful for the insight provided by stakeholders in this process,” said John Lovenburg, BNSF VP of Environment & Sustainability. “We look forward to working with federal, tribal and state government partners and Montana's Outdoor Legacy Foundation to ensure the effective implementation of the measures set out in the HCP, as well as the permit issued by USFWS.”

Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Foundation (MOLF) will oversee the mitigation funds, directing resources to high-priority conservation projects.

“We are working to implement solutions that support both wildlife and communities,” said MOLF Director Mitch King. “This funding will help expand conflict prevention programs and support the work of localized bear specialists.”

The NCDE is home to one of the largest grizzly bear populations in the contiguous U.S., with an estimated 1,100 bears in the region. The area spans Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, and surrounding tribal, public and private lands in northwest and north-central Montana. The habitat conservation plan aligns with broader efforts to maintain habitat connectivity and ensure the species’ continued recovery under the Endangered Species Act.

“This plan represents a significant partnership and step forward in our continued efforts to bolster grizzly bear recovery and conservation in northwest and north-central Montana,” said FWP Director Christy Clark. “Funding from BNSF will support boots on the ground and benefit public safety and grizzly bears. We commend BNSF Railway for working with us on this plan.”

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff recently captured elk in the Crazy Mountains northwest of Big Timber as part of a multi-year targeted elk brucellosis surveillance project. 

All blood samples collected from 52 captured elk tested negative for exposure to brucellosis. 

“Test data from live elk captures inform brucellosis management decisions in Montana,” said State Veterinarian Tahnee Szymanski. “These negative test results are valuable to Montana’s livestock industry as they help provide confidence to our trading partners about the quality and strength of our state program.” 

Capture operations in the Crazy Mountains were conducted in late January. Sixteen elk were outfitted with GPS collars that will be active for one year to help wildlife managers better understand their seasonal ranges, migration routes and potential mixing with other elk herds. 

The goal of these operations is to evaluate the presence and understand the movement of brucellosis in Montana’s elk populations. The surveillance also helps wildlife managers and animal health officials understand the overlap between elk and livestock on the landscape. 

“We understand that helicopter capture is unappealing to many landowners, and we sincerely appreciate those who took the time to consider our request for capture access,” said FWP Research Technician Jenny Jones.  

 Brucellosis is a bacterial disease that can infect humans, cattle, bison and elk and can result in abortion or the birth of weak calves. The disease is primarily transmitted through contact with infected birth tissues and fluids. 

The Montana Department of Livestock (DOL) administers a brucellosis surveillance program for livestock in an area of southwest Montana called the Designated Surveillance Area (DSA). Requirements within the DSA protect the state and national livestock industry from the inadvertent spread of brucellosis through livestock movement. Livestock within the DSA are at risk of exposure to brucellosis from infected wildlife and are therefore subject to additional brucellosis testing requirements for movement and change of ownership, as well as additional traceability requirements. 

Live elk captures in and around the perimeter of the DSA inform decisions on boundary adjustments by DOL. The Crazy Mountains are located outside of the DSA. The recent test results from the Crazy Mountains provide support for keeping the current DSA boundary unchanged. 

Montana’s targeted elk brucellosis surveillance project is a joint effort between DOL and FWP, with support from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. In addition, this project and capture operation would not be possible without the support and permission from landowners to capture elk on their property. 

More information about the surveillance project can be found online at fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/elk. 

For more information about how brucellosis is managed in Montana livestock, visit liv.mt.gov/Animal-Health/Reportable-Animal-Diseases/Brucellosis. 

BOZEMAN – Fish health sampling last year found that an overwhelming majority of trout from rivers in the upper Missouri River Basin are healthy.

Fish health sampling was part of the field work for joint studies between Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and Montana State University that began in 2024. This work also includes fish tagging and creel clerk surveys. Angler participation has been key in these efforts and will continue to play a crucial role going forward.

Trout health

Fish health sampling and monitoring increased after trout with fungal infections and head lesions caught the attention of FWP staff and anglers in the years leading up to 2023.

Following recommendations from the Big Hole Fish Health Workgroup, extensive fish health sampling began in the Big Hole, Beaverhead and Ruby rivers. During spring and fall sampling, less than 1 percent of the captured fish showed signs of infection, and none of the nearly 5,000 juvenile fish that were captured in tributaries to those rivers showed signs of infection.

Of the nearly 8,000 adult trout that FWP staff captured in the fall, only three fish exhibited signs of an infection.

“It’s encouraging that almost all fish in last year’s sampling efforts in the basin appeared healthy,” said Mike Duncan, FWP’s fisheries program manager in Region 3. “We’ll continue to monitor trout health closely in 2025.”

FWP staff also completed a count of trout spawning redds in the Big Hole River near Melrose. They counted 156 redds last year, up from 108 redds in 2023.

Angler participation

FWP staff tagged nearly 12,000 brown and rainbow trout in the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby and Madison rivers last year. To date, anglers have sent almost 1,300 reports of catching the tagged trout, including about 50 reports of yellow tags that are each worth a $100 reward. 

Anglers who report catching tagged fish are helping biologists and MSU study trout population declines in parts of the basin. Fish managers can use angling and annual sampling as ways to measure how environmental factors like flows and water temperatures are affecting fish populations by species, age class, waterbody and time of year.

Each tag has a unique number and is attached to the fish near the dorsal fin. However, the tags may not be as vibrant or obvious to anglers who land a tagged fish in 2025 because of algal growth or exposure to other environmental conditions over the last year.

Anglers should use clippers to remove the tag from the fish, then submit a report online for each tagged fish they catch. Blue tag reports put anglers into drawings for prizes, and yellow tag reports are worth cash rewards. Click here to submit a report.

Last year, about 3,599 anglers and recreationists took part in surveys to better understand all recreational use on rivers. Similar efforts will continue for several years and expand to include the upper Yellowstone River in 2025.

Montana Trout Unlimited held six drawings for anglers who reported catching tagged fish and recreationists who completed creel surveys. Multiple prizes were awarded in each drawing, including a guided fishing trip, artwork, clothing and fishing gear. Montana Trout Unlimited also held a grand prize drawing recently that included more than $1,000 in fishing gear to an angler who reported a tagged fish in 2024.

FWP staff will continue to tag trout and conduct surveys among anglers and other recreationists in 2025, and prize drawings will continue for members of the public who participate.

“Angler participation continues to be critically important to these studies that will help us manage for robust and healthy fisheries,” said Duncan. “We are thankful to Montana State University, Montana Trout Unlimited, anglers and prize donors for their collaboration.”

Annual interim reports of the ongoing MSU studies study will soon be available on FWP’s website. To learn more, click here.