Fitzpatrick Lake Fishing in Liberty County, Montana

• Overview

  The Liberty County end of Montana holds Fitzpatrick Lake. The ground round it is rolling bush. About 18 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. 38 miles away sits Shelby, the nearest town. Cut Bank is 51 miles away, with Conrad at 59 miles. You are close to a county edge here; who manages the access can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Fitzpatrick Lake

  Nothing we hold settles how deep this runs. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Liberty County records list northern pike, rainbow trout and cisco among the fish reported. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. Fitzpatrick Lake fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 64°F and January near 18°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. The lid arrives early and lasts until roughly mid April. Break-up sits around mid April on average, with the water closing again about late November. The first weeks of open water and the last are the ones to plan for. The season on Fitzpatrick Lake rarely departs from it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. Nothing in the way of made access shows up nearby: no ramp, no car park, no path. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Bingham Lake sits 9.3 miles off and takes the overflow. Confirm before you fish Fitzpatrick Lake.