A new fishing access site near Sportsman’s Bridge in Bigfork is now open to the public.

The new 18.22-acre site encompasses about 1,000 feet of shoreline along the west bank of the Flathead River off Oldenburg Road and includes a concrete boat ramp, 11 standard-size parking stalls and 39 truck/trailer parking stalls.

“The new Sportsman’s Bridge Fishing Access Site is a nice upgrade for our community and visitors,” said Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Regional Supervisor Amber Steed in a July 31 statement. “This site not only preserves access to the Flathead River but also enhances safety and capacity for recreationists, addressing the growing demand in the Flathead Valley.”

State wildlife officials initiated the project in 2021 after it became clear that plans to widen the 70-year-old

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