Spring Mack Days gears up for March 14 opener

The 2024 Spring Mack Days Fishing Event sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes is just around the corner. Lake trout anglers are gearing up to hit the waters of Flathead Lake for the 59-day event, which begins next Thursday, March 14, and continues through Saturday, May 11.

Up to $225,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the event, which is sanctioned by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes have a special tribal fishing permit available for those plying the south half of Flathead Lake. Check with fishing license vendors for the permit.

Enter just one fish to qualify for the lottery drawings that begin at $2,000 and go to $100. Fish one day or fish every day. As your fish total goes up over 11 lake trout entries you begin to accumulate bonus dollars. The higher your total number of fish entries the higher the bonus amount. Categories for special prizes are Ladies, Youth 12 and Under and 13-17, Captains, 70 and Over, Largest Lake Trout, Smallest Lake Trout, Top Twenty Anglers, and more.