Kelly Island - Missoula

Kelly Island is a state fishing access site located on the Clark Fork River. The habitat of this large 648-acre, undeveloped island is a unique mix of cottonwood bottoms, large meadows, and ponderosa pine forests with remarkable wildlife populations. Waterfowl concentrate here in winter and spring; the numerous backwater sloughs provide ideal resting spots. Around March, great blue herons begin to gather at the island's historic heron nesting area. Canada geese also nest on the island, sometimes in the heron nests. Wood duck boxes and goose nesting platforms have been erected here. Red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, and great horned owls commonly nest on the islands as well. This is a good spot to see Lewis' woodpecker and bald eagles. White-tailed deer are extremely abundant and seen year-round; beavers are common, and foxes are seen occasionally. River crossing can be difficult, but it's easy to get around on the island because of a myriad of well-worn animal trails. Visitors at other times can either boat or wade across the river. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WADE IN RIVER DURING SPRING OR OTHER PERIODS OF HIGH WATER.