Hebgen Lake, located in southwestern Montana, is a man-made reservoir spanning approximately 12,406 acres with a maximum depth of 85 feet. The lake is situated near the western boundary of Yellowstone National Park and is considered one of the premier stillwater fishing lakes in Montana. The lake was created in 1914 as a result of the construction of the Hebgen Dam, an earth-fill dam that retains the waters of the Madison River. Hebgen Lake is known for its abundant populations of brown and rainbow trout, as well as kokanee salmon and arctic grayling. Anglers from all over the world come to Hebgen Lake to test their skills and try their luck at catching trophy-sized fish. The lake's clear waters and diverse aquatic habitat make it an ideal location for fly fishing and other angling techniques. In addition to its exceptional fishing opportunities, Hebgen Lake is a popular vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake's close proximity to Yellowstone National Park also makes it an ideal basecamp for exploring the park's iconic landmarks and natural wonders. However, Hebgen Lake's tranquil setting was disrupted on August 17, 1959, when a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the area. The earthquake, which was one of the largest in Montana's history, caused a massive landslide that blocked the Madison River and formed a new lake, known as Quake Lake. The earthquake also caused significant damage to the Hebgen Dam, but the structure remained intact and prevented a catastrophic flood. Today, Hebgen Lake and the surrounding area have fully recovered from the earthquake and continue to be popular destinations for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you're an angler looking to catch a trophy trout or a nature enthusiast seeking adventure in the great outdoors, Hebgen Lake has something for everyone.