Central Montana is known for its variety of hunting and fishing. The upland bird hunting include ruff and blue grouse, sharp-tailed and sage grouse, Hungarian partridge, and pheasants. Turkey is also abundant with both fall and spring seasons. Central Montana is known for its bird hunting as people arrive from other parts of Montana and the nation. Big game is also an attraction because of its large Elk populations in all the mountain ranges and the Missouri River Breaks. Also hunted are Black Bear, Lion, Mule Deer, White-tailed Deer, Antelope, and Big Horn Sheep (World class in the Missouri River Breaks).

Central Montana recreation is vast and unencumbered by large crowds. Big Spring Creek, Judith River, Missouri River, Crystal Lake, Warm Spring Creek, Ackley Lake, Petrolia Lake, and Fort Peck Lake are the primary water sources for fishing and recreation. Besides the water sources, five area mountain ranges provide a variety of hunting and other forms of recreation. The Central Montana area has quality agricultural land with reliable production of hay, small grains, and cattle. Seventy miles north of Lewistown is the Missouri River. Hunting and fishing opportunities are available through the BLM and Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge. Fort Peck is noted for having more shoreline than the state of California. Fort Peck Lake enjoys nationwide recognition as a hot spot for walleye fishing. Each year the Governor’s Cup is held at Fort Peck Lake, which attracts anglers from all over the State in search of large walleye. The lake also offers excellent fishing for sauger, smallmouth bass, lake trout, chinook salmon and northern pike.