Island Dreams! Popular Montana River Scores New Float-In Fortress

If your idea of a perfect weekend involves a drift boat, a fly rod, and absolutely zero cell service, the universe just handed you a massive win.

SISKIN ISLAND FISHING ACCESS SITE

Angela Montana, digital editor and reporter for the Montana Outdoor Radio Show, tells us that Montana, Fish, Wildlife and Parks officially accepted the donation of a sprawling, 82-acre island complex right in the sweet spot of the upper Yellowstone River. Know as the Siskin Island Fishing Access Site, this hidden gem is tucked away about 13 miles south of Livingston, sitting pretty between the Mallards Rest and Pine Creek access points.

The best part is that you can’t just roll up in an SUV. This is strictly a “float-in” paradise.

Facilitated by the Trust for Public Land, this donation transforms a chunk of private real estate into a public sanctuary. The island is essentially a checklist of Montana’s best natural features: mature cottonwood forests, marshy wetlands, rocky shorelines, and wide-open meadows.

NOT JUST A PLAYGROUND FOR HUMANS

The island’s side channels act as a premium nursery for the river’s famous trout population. According to FWP, “The donation of this site to FWP protects critical river and riparian habitat, expands lawful public access and reflects strong community partnership and public input.”

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and Montana FWP Director Christy Clark took a boat tour of the property recently to officially welcome it to Montana’s public land portfolio.

Montana FWP plans to manage the site for habitat conservation and public access to banks to keep the ecosystem pristine.

READ MORE: Director Named For U of Montana's New Hunting/Conservation Center

A FEW GROUND RULES WILL BE IN PLACE

• Day Use: Welcomed and encouraged. Pull up your raft, stretch your legs, and cast a line.
• Float-in Camping: Allowed, but keep your spontaneous side in check—it’s restricted to a designated campsite and will be by reservation only.
• Hunting: Permitted, but subject to specific weapons restrictions.

NOT SO FAST, MY FRIEND

Montana FWP is currently finalizing the official site rules and setting up the online campsite reservation portal. The full details are expected to drop on the FWP website in the coming weeks.

What a gift to an iconic Montana river.