Kalispell, Montana – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is hosting a specialized ice fishing workshop for women through its longstanding Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program. Scheduled for February 6 and 7, the event targets beginners eager to master the essentials of winter angling in a welcoming, supportive setting.
The two-day women’s workshop kicks off with an indoor classroom session on Friday evening, February 6, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Participants will receive instruction on critical topics such as ice safety, selecting the right gear, and dressing appropriately for Montana’s harsh winter conditions. This foundational knowledge equips attendees with the confidence needed for safe and enjoyable outings on frozen waters.
The hands-on component follows on Saturday, February 7, from 8 a.m. to noon at a local frozen lake, with the exact location to be determined closer to the date based on prevailing ice conditions. Here, women will apply what they’ve learned, practicing techniques under the guidance of experienced FWP instructors. All necessary fishing tackle and equipment will be supplied, removing barriers for newcomers to the sport.
Registration for the workshop opened on Saturday, January 24, at 9 a.m. and will close on Wednesday, February 4, at 5 p.m. The fee is a modest $15, making it accessible for those interested in dipping their toes—or rods—into ice fishing. Spots are limited, so prompt sign-up is encouraged via the online portal at FWP’s education section dedicated to the BOW program.
While no standard fishing license is required for this instructional event, all participants must hold a valid Montana Conservation License to access FWP-managed lands. These licenses are readily available for purchase at any FWP regional office or through the agency’s online system, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
The BOW program, active in Montana since 1994, has been a cornerstone for empowering women in outdoor pursuits. It offers hands-on training in a variety of skills, including fishing, hunting, shooting, archery, orienteering, camp cooking, and kayaking. The emphasis is always on encouragement, safety, and a non-competitive atmosphere, fostering skill development and community among participants aged 18 and older. Partial scholarships are available for first-time Montana residents, broadening access to these enriching experiences.
This Kalispell workshop is part of a broader series of BOW ice fishing events planned across the state this winter. For instance, similar beginner sessions are set for Havre on February 13-14 and Helena on February 20-21, each following the proven two-part format of classroom preparation followed by field practice. An intermediate workshop in Helena on February 21 caters to those with prior experience, providing advanced tips and supplied gear at no cost beyond licensing requirements. These offerings highlight FWP’s commitment to expanding inclusive opportunities in outdoor activities and wildlife recreation.
Safety remains paramount, particularly with ice fishing. Workshops like this one stress the importance of monitoring ice thickness and conditions, a lesson reinforced through real-world application. Events are subject to cancellation if ice proves unsafe, prioritizing participant well-being above all.
For those ready to embrace Montana’s winter outdoors, this workshop represents an ideal entry point. Contact Kylie Kembel at 406-444-5280 or kylie.kembel@mt.gov for additional details or questions. Through initiatives like BOW, FWP continues to promote conservation awareness and sustainable engagement with the state’s natural resources.
For more information, visit Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.