PAST MISSOURI RIVER FISHING REPORTS 2024
January 4, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/4500
Temperature: 35 Degrees below Holter Dam
Annual Slay Day: We had a crew out fishing on January 1st. Fish were caught on a variety of nymphs including the Tailwater Charlie, Mo Zebra, UV Tungsten Sow, Bubble Yum, Pill Popper and some egg patterns. All winter-time standby flies. A fair number of midges were present. Hopefully we will see enough to bring up some heads later this winter.
Quite a few anglers have been fishing in the past month. Most are wading, but a few are still floating. Currently, all the boat landings are snow and ice free.
Trout Spey: Now is prime time for swinging. Buggers like the Thin Mint are always on the menu along with Balanced Leeches in dark colors. The Foxxy Clouser, Flare-A-Bou, Trout Spey Bugger, Trout Spey Intruder, Montana Intruder, Mini Montana Intruder, Bald Eagle, Pocket Rocket and many more will find connections. As fish tank up, Scandi set ups with leechy tung head flies will work for fishing the soft inside zones. Swing Skagit tips for streamers over the buckets, deeper runs and shelves. T-8 tips in 5/5 and 10’ or the OPST tips in the Riffle (S2/3), Run (S4 or S6) and Bucket (S9) Series will cover all bases.
Dry: A few midges out there. Not much dry fly action to speak of.
Nymph: Running longer leaders with split shot is the winter norm. Sow Bugs are the primary standby imitation throughout the winter months. Some are fishing their sow behind a worm. Others drop a Zebra Midge off their sow bug. Running a double sow bug rig with beaded and non-beaded versions is also popular. If you want to get technical, anglers find success short leashing midges (flies 2-3' under Palsa Tab indicators) in the slow edges, channels and back waters.
Streamers: Smaller weighted streamers like Flash N’Grabs, Flare-A-Bou, Chicago Overcoat, and the She Demon Bugger will provide action. Cold water slows things down. Whether you choose a floating line or a sink tip, get them deep and move them slowly.
January 10, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/5440
Temperature: 35 Degrees below Holter Dam
Winter has finally arrived, and we are focused on fly tying for destination saltwater trips as well as stocking the boxes for the Montana season ahead. We had a fly tying social at Elevation 3330 last night and helped Terry get ready for Belize. We also taught a few patrons how to tie some new fly patterns.
People often ask how the Missouri River fishes in the winter. My response is that it is always good if the weather is tolerable. Fish eat all year round when food is available, and food is plentiful on the MO all winter long. Think Sow Bugs, Midges and Minnows. If the weather allows you to fish, the fish will be biting.
Trout Spey: Now is prime time for swinging. Buggers like the Thin Mint are always on the menu along with Balanced Leeches in dark colors. The Foxxy Clouser, Flare-A-Bou, Trout Spey Bugger, Trout Spey Intruder, Montana Intruder, Mini Montana Intruder, Bald Eagle, Pocket Rocket and many more will find connections. As fish tank up, Scandi set ups with leechy tung head flies will work for fishing the soft inside zones. Swing Skagit tips with streamers over the buckets, deeper runs and shelves. T-8 tips in 5/5 and 10’ or the OPST tips in the Riffle (S2/3), Run (S4 or S6) and Bucket (S9) Series will cover all bases.
Dry: A few midges out there. Not much dry fly action to speak of.
Nymph: Running longer leaders with split shot is the norm. Sow Bugs are the primary standby imitation throughout the winter months. Some are fishing their sow behind a worm. Others drop a Zebra Midge off their sow bug. Running a double sow bug rig with beaded and non-beaded versions is also popular. If you want to get technical, anglers find success short leashing midges (flies 2-3' under Palsa Tab indicators) in the slow edges, channels and back waters.
Streamers: Smaller weighted streamers like Flash N’Grabs, Flare-A-Bou, Chicago Overcoat, Jig Thin Mint and the She Demon Bugger will provide action. Cold water slows things down. Whether you choose a floating line or a sink tip, get them down and move them slowly.
January 17, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/5240
Temperature: 33 Degrees below Holter Dam
We are deep in a cold period. The river is mostly frozen from Great Falls to above Mountain Palace. Shelf ice runs all the way to Holter Dam. Boat landings are now ice and snow covered. It looks like it will be warming up this weekend, but if you venture out, be careful.
Trout Spey: Now is prime time for swinging. Buggers like the Thin Mint are always on the menu along with Balanced Leeches in dark colors. The Foxxy Clouser, Flare-A-Bou, Trout Spey Bugger, Trout Spey Intruder, Montana Intruder, Mini Montana Intruder, Bald Eagle, Pocket Rocket and many more will find connections. As fish tank up, Scandi set ups with leechy tung head flies will work for fishing the soft inside zones. Swing Skagit tips with streamers over the buckets, deeper runs and shelves. T-8 tips in 5/5 and 10’ or the OPST tips in the Riffle (S2/3), Run (S4 or S6) and Bucket (S9) Series will cover all bases.
Dry: A few midges out there. Not much dry fly action to speak of.
Nymph: Running longer leaders with split shot is the norm. Sow Bugs are the primary standby imitation throughout the winter months. Some are fishing their sow behind a worm. Others drop a Zebra Midge off their sow bug. Running a double sow bug rig with beaded and non-beaded versions is also popular. If you want to get technical, anglers find success short leashing midges (flies 2-3' under Palsa Tab indicators) in the slow edges, channels and back waters.
Streamers: Smaller weighted streamers like Flash N’Grabs, Flare-A-Bou, Chicago Overcoat, Jig Thin Mint and the She Demon Bugger will provide action. Cold water slows things down. Whether you choose a floating line or a sink tip, get them down and move them slowly
January 24, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/4500
Temperature: 33 Degrees below Holter Dam
Flows have been dropped and the daily high temps have moved up as much as 80 degrees from earlier lows. My vehicle registered 50 degrees by Prewit Creek on Sunday. Daily highs for the next week are projected to remain in the 40–50-degree range. The river is icy cold and still ice locked in the lower canyon, but very fishable from Holter Dam to the Mid Canon reach. These temps will keep chiseling away at the ice and lower reaches should be fishable soon. For now, it is best to focus up high and if you are wading, keep an eye upstream for floating ice. I enjoyed a fantastic session of swinging flies on Sunday in spring like temps and without wind. I had my chosen run all to myself and a couple eagles who wistfully watched me releasing healthy rainbows and one feisty brown.
Trout Spey: I found some success swinging with a Skagit head and an intermediate tip, but the fish were in slow enough water, that I was still dragging bottom in spots. I switched to an integrated Scandi line with a 13’ leader and my swing was better, and the catch rate improved. One of the keys to success with the Scandi set up is fishing a fly with enough weight to hover above the bottom. If you want the fly to get deeper, keep your rod lined up with the line on the water. If you need to elevate the fly, you can mend up our downstream to tension the leader and lift the fly. Often lifting the fly in a jigging motion will trigger a bite. Sometimes, the fish will also eat the fly when you release tension and allow the fly to drop. It is a fun process selling the fly and figuring out what it takes to trigger the bite. My favorite flies are balanced leeches and small minnow imitations like the Fly Project Bam Bam. If the fish get plucky and are hard to hook, you can try dropping a soft hackle or unweighted micro leech off the weighted fly. That will often seal the deal.
Dry: A fair number of midges out there and a few fish paying attention.
Nymph: Running longer leaders with split shot is the norm. Sow Bugs are the primary standby imitation throughout the winter months. Some are fishing their sow behind a worm. Others drop a Zebra Midge off their sow bug. Running a double sow bug rig with beaded and non-beaded versions is also popular. If you want to get technical, anglers find success short leashing midges (flies 2-3' under Palsa Tab indicators) in the slow edges, channels and back waters.
Streamers: Smaller weighted streamers like Flash N’Grabs, Flare-A-Bou, Chicago Overcoat, Jig Thin Mint and the She Demon Bugger will provide action. Cold water slows things down. Whether you choose a floating line or a sink tip, get them down and move them slowly.
There is a rare opportunity for excellent winter fishing right now. If you need any help dialing in your set ups and approach, we are here to help you.
Tight Lines!
MARCH
March 6, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/3700
Temperature: 34 Degrees below Holter Dam
Trout Spey: March is prime time for swinging. Pre-spawn Rainbows are grouping up in the upper river and getting competitive. If you find a run stacked with fish, the bites can be steady. In the Canyon and lower reaches, hungry browns are on the hunt for protein packed meals. They often hit hard and take to the air like steelhead. Who does not love that?
Skagit heads with tips from intermediate to T-11 work great for covering water from flats, to buckets and deep shelves. Don’t be afraid to change tip density and fly weight. You’ve got to get in front of them. On some broad runs with consistent depth, I will also choose an integrated Scandi line with a 13’ leader. One of the keys to success with the Scandi set up is fishing a fly with enough weight to hover above the bottom. If you want the fly to get deeper, keep your rod lined up with the line on the water. If you need to elevate the fly, you can mend up our downstream to tension the leader and lift the fly. Often lifting the fly in a jigging motion will trigger a bite. Sometimes, the fish will also eat the fly when you release tension and allow the fly to drop. It is a fun process selling the fly and figuring out what it takes to trigger the bite. My favorite flies are balanced leeches and small minnow imitations like the Fly Project Bam Bam and Flare-A-Bou. If the fish get plucky and are hard to hook, you can try dropping a soft hackle or unweighted micro leech off the weighted fly. That will often seal the deal.
Dry: Midges are out there and fish paying attention. If you get lucky with clouds and calm conditions, fish will get busy chomping emergers, adults and clusters.
Nymph: Running longer leaders with split shot is the norm. Sow Bugs will remain a standby for weeks to come. Some fish their their sow behind a worm. Others drop a Zebra Midge off their sow bug. Running a double sow bug rig with beaded and non-beaded versions is also popular. If you want to get technical, anglers find success short leashing midges (flies 2-3' under Palsa Tab indicators) in the slow edges, channels and back waters.
Streamers: Smaller weighted streamers like Flash N’Grabs, Flare-A-Bou, Chicago Overcoat, Jig Thin Mint and the She Demon Bugger will provide action. Cold water slows things down. Whether you choose a floating line or a sink tip, get them down and move them slowly. As we get deeper into March, don’t be afraid to start playing with larger flies. Browns will be more and more aggressive toward big meals as the month goes on.
Tight Lines!
March 12, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/3800
Temperature: 35+ Degrees below Holter Dam
The season is here. Ice is out or going out on the reservoirs and our water temps will begin a steady trend upwards. Many rainbows will begin staging to spawn, while others will begin to put on the feed bag as their metabolisms tick upwards. Browns get feisty in the afternoons when flows warm up a degree or two.
If you want to have some fun playing with larger trout, now is the time to hit the lakes for cruising fish on the front side of their spawning maturity. Holter, Upper Holter, Nilan, Willow Creek and Bynum to name a few will be excellent over the next six weeks.
Ice Out: Balanced leeches under indicators are the name of the game when the wind is blowing enough to create good wave action. When waters are calm, chironomids and #14-16 jig nymphs work better. Don’t be afraid to take off the indicator and cast and retrieve leeches, minnow imitations and nymphs either. There is always some combination of fly and technique that will get the fish chomping.
Trout Spey: It is prime time to swing streamers before the hatches get underway. If enough midges are out and you want to go lighter, consider swinging small soft hackles when you see fish working on top.
Dry: If you get lucky with clouds and calm conditions during the day, fish will get busy chomping emergers, adults and clusters. Otherwise, the midges will often come out as the sun begins to drop in the evening, creating a magic hour.
Nymph: Sow Bugs, Midges, Worms, Eggs
Streamers: Flash N’Grabs, Flare-A-Bou, Chicago Overcoat, Jig Thin Mint and the She Demon Bugger will provide action. Cold water slows things down. Whether you choose a floating line or a sink tip, get them down and move them slowly. As we get deeper into March, don’t be afraid to start playing with larger flies. Browns will be more and more aggressive toward big meals as the month goes on.
Tight Lines!
March 20, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/3820
Temperature: 37+ Degrees below Holter Dam
The weather was here and lots of folks took advantage of spring temps this past week. A couple afternoons topped out at 70 degrees. Ice is out or going out on the reservoirs and our water temps have begin a steady trend upwards. Of course, we have a cold front with winter weather expected for this coming weekend. That will slow things down for a brief time.
Ice Out: Balanced leeches under indicators are the name of the game when the wind is blowing enough to create good wave action. When waters are calm, chironomids and #14-16 jig nymphs work better. Don’t be afraid to take off the indicator and cast and retrieve leeches, minnow imitations and nymphs either. There is always some combination of fly and technique that will get the fish chomping.
Trout Spey: It is prime time to swing streamers before the hatches get underway. If enough midges are out and you want to go lighter, consider swinging small soft hackles when you see fish working on top. Otherwise, buggers, balanced leeches and squirrels are steady producers. Sometimes the fish will get chompy on the bling and flashy flies like the Flash N’ Grab and Montana Intruder will illicit some solid grabs.
Dry: Midges are the name of the game. If you get lucky with clouds and calm conditions during the day, fish will get busy chomping emergers, adults and clusters. Otherwise, the midges will often come out as the sun begins to drop in the evening, creating a magic hour.
Nymph: Sow Bugs, Midges, Worms, Eggs
Streamers: Flash N’Grabs, Flare-A-Bou, Chicago Overcoat, Jig Thin Mint and the She Demon Bugger will provide action. Cold water slows things down. Whether you choose a floating line or a sink tip, get them down and move them slowly. As we get deeper into March, don’t be afraid to start playing with larger flies. Browns will be more and more aggressive toward big meals as the month goes on.
The Trout Shop is open daily from 8-5.
Tight Lines!
March 27, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/3460
Temperature: 37+ Degrees below Holter Dam
Things are changing as spring begins to make its influence felt. Lots of rainbows are on the spawn, and not interested in eating. Please respect them in shallow water and do not wade in the obvious redds along the edges in faster flows. Focus on the smoother softer waters where non spawning rainbows and browns are feasting on midges. This is arguably one of the best times to dry fly fish the MO. The fish eating on top are not hard to feed with single adult midges and/or cluster midges. You can also short leash zebra midges a few inches to a couple feet down.
This is also prime time to streamer fish for brown trout. There are no weeds to contend with and with many of the rainbows out of the picture, the browns are easy to target and will likely see your fly. Almost any size or style of streamer will produce. The key is that color, flash or lack of flash preferences can change, so try a few options. Retrieve speeds should not be too quick yet either as waters are still cold. Slow in the morning and faster as the day goes on is good general practice.
Location: Holter, Upper Holter, Nilan, Willow Creek, Reservation Lakes
Ice out time is now and the big lake fish are cruising the shorelines. When the wind is blowing, send a balanced leech under and indicator out into the waves and let the waves make it dance. You can also cast and retrieve buggers and minnow streamers. If the wind drops, it is time to slowly retrieve nymphs or fish a nymph or chironomid under a small indicator. Just be aware that casting continually over calm waters will spook the fish. Be stealthy, and you will be rewarded.
The Trout Shop is open daily 8-5, ready to help you with flies, gear, information, shuttles and coffee.
Tight Lines!
April 5, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: CFS/3620
Temperature: 39+ Degrees below Holter Dam
You should have been here yesterday. And the day before. But tomorrow will probably be good as well. Water at the dam is just two degrees from BWO’s. Temps down river have already topped 42 degrees and a few mayflies are coming off. Expect a major showing any day in the next week or so. Lots of midges have had the fish up for weeks. Even when the sun is shining. Nymphing has been best in the morning on the brighter days. Streamer fishing has been solid when the clouds are dimming the sunlight. Many rainbows are on the spawn, but those that are not have been eating dries well. When the BWO’s join the midges, it’s going to be awesome. The browns are eating everything from midges to articulated streamers.
Location: Holter, Upper Holter, Nilan, Willow Creek, Reservation Lakes
Lake fishing is in full swing for shoreline cruisers. Great reports have been coming from Holter, Upper Holter, Nilan and Willow Creek Reservoirs. Balanced Leeches are the go to when the wind has some surface chop rolling. If it glasses out, try stripping #14-16 Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns or Hares Ear Nymphs. Hanging Chironomids under indicators near the surface also produces well at times.
Location: The Trout Shop
Spring is here with a mix of weather, but the fishing can be great regardless. We are currently open from 8-5 daily. Give us a call or stop in for all your needs.
Tight Lines!
April 18, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: 3690 CFS
Temperature: 40+ Degrees below Holter Dam
Yesterday the water temps moved into the 43-44 degree range and the BWO’s really kicked off. Fish were acting like sharks in some reaches of the river. Last night we got some snow and the river temp dropped. It will be interesting to see how that affects the hatch going forward. Expect emergences to be a bit random and likely later in the day. Once we begin warming up through the week, the hatches should begin to time more consistently in early afternoon.
Sow bugs and BWO nymphs are king under the surface. Fish deep in the morning and consider shortening up later in the day. Some fish are stationed in very shallow water where they have been feeding on midges. Now they will be chasing more BWO’s.
Streamer fishing has been hit and miss depending on the day, the sun, the clouds, the reach of river, and the anglers. The next month or so is a great time to be hunting for those larger browns. When they are switched on, pulling the big flies is the way to go.
Many of our rainbows are still locked into spawning mode. As we move into May, water will warm and many of the fish who are distracted right now will be hungry. Expect fishing to continue to get better in the weeks ahead.
Conditions are very fluid this time of year. Epic one day and challenging the next. Weather is the big wildcard. If you need up to the minute details, please call us for daily updates.
Location: Holter/Upper Holter Lake and any reservoirs along the Rocky Mountain Front
Rainbow fishing has been fantastic this spring. Lots of fish are accessable near the boat landings and along the shore. Its often a social scene where the fishing is best, but it can be fun nonetheless. If you have a boat, you can find solitude cruising the shorelines or anchoring and casting in locations away from the shoreline access points. We are loaded with balanced leeches, chironomids and other nymphs the fish will eat.
The Trout Shop is open daily 8-5, ready to help you with flies, gear, information, shuttles, coffee, ice, drinks, breakfast sandwiches and river lunches.
April 25, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: 3340 CFS
Temperature: 45+ Degrees below Holter Dam
Mayfly season has arrived. BWO’s are hatching daily. Nymphs are getting it done all day, Soft Hackles, emergers, cripples and duns are all in play during the hatch windows. Spinner falls might get attention also. Lots of bug stages are in play. Midges are still prolific at times and get the fish up early and late most days. A few March Browns have been spotted. We will soon see if this hatch comes to fruition.
Sow bugs and BWO nymphs remain staples down below, with a few folks rolling some larger Mayfly nymphs. Streamer fishing is always in play, especially on the darker days, but with low clear water and bugs, the fish are busy eating the small stuff.
The outlook is for continued great fishing with more and more post spawn rainbows adding into the mix.
May 2, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: 3340 CFS
Temperature: 45+ Degrees below Holter Dam
Mayfly season has arrived. BWO’s are hatching daily. Nymphs are getting it done all day, Soft Hackles, emergers, cripples and duns are all in play during the hatch windows. Spinner falls might get attention also. Lots of bug stages are in play. Midges are still prolific at times and get the fish up early and late most days. A few March Browns have been spotted. We will soon see if this hatch comes to fruition.
Sow bugs and BWO nymphs remain staples down below, with a few folks rolling some larger Mayfly nymphs. Streamer fishing is always in play, especially on the darker days, but with low clear water and bugs, the fish are busy eating the small stuff.
The outlook is for continued great fishing with more and more post spawn rainbows adding into the mix.
May 10, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: 4240 CFS
Temperature: 47 Degrees below Holter Dam
Mayfly season is in full swing with lots of bugs hatching daily. Timing has been somewhat inconsistent with yoyo weather and yoyo water temperatures. Afternoons and evening are usually best if the wind cooperates, but sometimes, fish have been rising earlier in the day on midges, BWO spinner falls and some early duns. March Browns are also in the mix and have had sporadic appearances up and down the river creating excitement and great opportunity when they go off.
Sow Bugs are always in play when nymphing down below. Running short with BWO nymphs or even dry dropper with March Brown or Attractor Dry and BWO nymph has been popular in skinny water zones. You can fish however you like if you pick the right water. The wildcard is now going to be any water changes. We just got doused with rain and higher elevation snows. The flows on the tributaries have been up and down, but will likely go up again. We will see some increased flows and a little bit of color added to our low and clear water. That will likely make fishing even better and possibly kick off some great streamer fishing days. For now, it will be best to call for an updated report as conditions are in flux as we look ahead to 60- and 70-degree temps again after our latest cold front (6th Winter).
The Trout Shop in Craig is now open 7-7 and we are busy in the mornings handing out coffee, breakfast sandwiches, lunches, flies and filling out shuttle forms. If you need a lunch first thing in the morning, you can call it in the day before. For fresh breakfast sandwiches and burritos, stop in and shop while your food is prepared or call in an order with a pick-up time if you are in a hurry.
See you in Craig at the Trout Shop!
June 4, 2024
Location: Missouri River
Flows: 5970 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 52+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Partly cloudy skies and gusty winds this afternoon. High of 67F. Winds WSW at 20 to 30mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
Summary: The second prolific mayfly hatch has started with Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) while the caddis hatches are building. Be sure to stock the fly box with every lifestage of the PMD (nymphs, emergers, duns, cripples, and spinners) and pay attention to what bugs are on the water. Midges and BWO's are waning with PMD's and caddis taking the stage.
Today's Tips: With high winds, nymphing is recommended. With higher water temperatures, fish can be found throughout much of the river, focus on steady moving water with flies like Tailwater sow bugs, Tungsten UV Sow, Frenchy, Perdigon Jig, Split Case PMDs, Ascending Caddis, Tung Dart, Caddis Pupa, Translucent Pupa or Blow Torches.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If the wind dies down and you find a window of opportunity, these are the flies we reccomend.Try a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, pr Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging with the Skagit setup? Try these flies: Hale Bop Leech, Thin Mint, She Demon, Mini Montana Intruder, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Flare-A-Bou, Slum Lord, #14 Chicago Overcoat. For you Scandi folks, try these flies: Biot Midge Emerger, Partridge and Yellow, Tung Dart, Pick N Roll.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches, Chironomids, Copper Johns, #16 Little Green Machine, #14 Black IPT.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, food and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
June 5, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 5790 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 52+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: It's sunny today with a high near 72. The latest cold front has left us with a decent breeze with a west wind at 18 to 25 mph. Bring your fast action rods today.
Summary: Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) are starting to go BIG TIME. Caddis hatches are still building. Stock the fly box with every lifestage of the PMD (nymphs, emergers, duns, cripples, and spinners) and pay attention to what bugs are on the water. Midges and BWO's are waning with PMD's about to go nuclear.
Today's Tips: With a decent breeze from the recent cold front, nymphing is recommended. With higher water temperatures, fish can be found throughout much of the river, focus on steady moving water with flies like Tailwater sow bugs, Tungsten UV Sow, Frenchy, Perdigon Jig, Split Case PMDs, Ascending Caddis, Tung Dart, Caddis Pupa, Translucent Pupa or Blow Torches.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If the wind dies down and you find a window of opportunity, these are the flies we reccomend.Try a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging with the Skagit setup? Try these flies: Hale Bop Leech, Thin Mint, She Demon, Mini Montana Intruder, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Flare-A-Bou, Slum Lord, #14 Chicago Overcoat. For you Scandi folks, try these flies: Biot Midge Emerger, Partridge and Yellow, Tung Dart, Pick N Roll.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches, Chironomids, Copper Johns, #16 Little Green Machine, #14 Black IPT.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, food and espresso. Stop in for a handful of PMDs. Tight lines!
June 7, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 5350 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 53+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. West southwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.
Expectations for the Weekend: Weather will be mild and sunny with highs in the low 70's. Flows on the Missouri River are dropping so be stealty. Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) are starting to go BIG TIME as we head into peak dry fly season. Stock the fly box with every lifestage of the PMD (nymphs, emergers, duns, cripples, and spinners) and pay attention to what bugs are on the water. Midges and BWO's are waning with PMD's about to go nuclear. Caddis hatches are happening, so plan accordingly. Returning to the river in the evening could put you in the middle of a good caddis swarm.
Nymphing: When the dry fly bite isn't as expected and you've missed the window, here are our top picks for nymphs. With higher water temperatures, fish can be found throughout much of the river, focus on steady moving water with flies like Tailwater Sows, Tungsten UV Sows, Frenchies, #16 Black IPTs, Perdigon Jigs, Jig Napoleons, Split Case PMDs, Ascending Caddis, Tung Darts, Caddis Pupa, and Translucent Pupas.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If the wind dies down and you find a window of opportunity, these are the flies we reccomend.Try a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging with the Skagit setup? Try these flies: Hale Bop Leech, Thin Mint, She Demon, Mini Montana Intruder, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Flare-A-Bou, Slum Lord, #14 Chicago Overcoat. For you Scandi folks, try these flies: Biot Midge Emerger, Partridge and Yellow, Tung Dart, Pick N Roll.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches, Chironomids, Copper Johns, #16 Little Green Machine, #14 Black IPT.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, food and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
June 10, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 4820 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 56+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Sunny with a high near 78. West wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.
Weekend Recap: Flows on the Missouri River were dropped further over the weekend. This tends to displace fish, so searching out new waters may be the ticket to catching more fish. With an increase in water temps, carry a handful of buggers and crayfish, like the Zirdle, just in case the PMD bite (dry or nymph) gets scratchy. Crayfish imitations fished with a slight jigging motion from time to time can entice a strike. It's important to carry each lifestage of the PMD (nymphs, emergers, duns, cripples, and spinners) and pay attention to what bugs are on the water. Midges and BWO's can still be found, but the majority of trout are expected to be focused on PMD's or caddis imitation. Returning to the river in the evening could put you in the middle of a decent caddis swarm.
Nymphing: When the dry fly bite isn't as expected and you've missed the window, here are our top picks for nymphs. With higher water temperatures, fish can be found throughout much of the river, focus on steady moving water with flies like Tailwater Sows, Tungsten UV Sows, Frenchies, #16 Black IPTs, Perdigon Jigs, Jig Napoleons, Split Case PMDs, Ascending Caddis, Tung Darts, Caddis Pupa, and Translucent Pupas.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If the wind dies down and you find a window of opportunity, these are the flies we reccomend.Try a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging with the Skagit setup? Try these flies: Hale Bop Leech, Thin Mint, She Demon, Mini Montana Intruder, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Flare-A-Bou, Slum Lord, #14 Chicago Overcoat. For you Scandi folks, try these flies: Biot Midge Emerger, Partridge and Yellow, Tung Dart, Pick N Roll.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches, Chironomids, Copper Johns, #16 Little Green Machine, #14 Black IPT.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, food and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
June 13, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 5270 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 56+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Sunny, with a high near 79. Calm wind becoming east northeast around 6 mph in the afternoon.
Midweek Update: Flows on the Missouri River have been up and down, so searching out new waters may be the ticket to catching more fish. PMDs are happening and just about any PMD pattern will bring fish to hand. Classic beadless and beaded pheasant tails, Split Case PMD, Crack Back PMD, Frenchies, PMD Cripples and Duns are all working. The Caddis nymph bite is starting to perform as well, so pack some Blow Torches or Bloom's Weight Flies with both the silver bead and red bead.Water temps are creeping up, so it's not a bad idea to keep a few crayfish and bugger imitation to sell trout an easy meal. Crayfish imitations fished with a slight jigging motion from time to time can entice a strike. Midges and BWO's can still be found, but the majority of trout are expected to be focused on PMD's or caddis imitation. Returning to the river in the evening could put you in the middle of a decent caddis swarm.
Nymphing: When the dry fly bite isn't as expected and you've missed the window, here are our top picks for nymphs. With higher water temperatures, fish can be found throughout much of the river, focus on steady moving water with flies like Tailwater Sows, Tungsten UV Sows, Frenchies, #16 Black IPTs, Perdigon Jigs, Jig Napoleons, Split Case PMDs, Ascending Caddis, Tung Darts, Caddis Pupa, and Translucent Pupas.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If the wind dies down and you find a window of opportunity, these are the flies we reccomend.Try a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging with the Skagit setup? Try these flies: Hale Bop Leech, Thin Mint, She Demon, Mini Montana Intruder, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Flare-A-Bou, Slum Lord, #14 Chicago Overcoat. For you Scandi folks, try these flies: Biot Midge Emerger, Partridge and Yellow, Tung Dart, Pick N Roll.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches, Chironomids, Copper Johns, #16 Little Green Machine, #14 Black IPT.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, food and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
June 17, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 6390 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 55 Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Rain and snow before noon, then rain and snow showers between noon and 3pm, then rain showers after 3pm. Some thunder is also possible. High near 41. Northeast wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%.
Looking Ahead: With this cold front moving through the area, we'll see significant rain and possibly snow early in the week. If you're open to fishing in the rain, working a streamer could be a good use of your time on the water. Nymphing should be excellent if you can find a hatch window. Look for bugs glued to the film. Over the weekend, the most productive fly was a tiny size 18 frenchy. PMD's, Caddis and Callibaetis are hatching, so stock the fly box with these bug imitations.
Nymphing: Run a deep rig with your flies 6-8ft from the indicator. Run double tungsten with BB shot to get down to the fish while the water is running high and fast. A good tip is start long to find bottom, then back the length of your rig off until you'r seldomly ticking bottom. Here are our top picks for nymphs. Try size 18 Frenchies, Tailwater Sows, Tungsten UV Sows, #16 Black IPTs, Perdigon Jigs, Jig Napoleons, Split Case PMDs, Ascending Caddis, Tung Darts, Caddis Pupa, and Translucent Pupas.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers willing stand the rain, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If the weather clears and you find yourself in a hatch window, these are the flies we'd be using. Always cast flies first to the fish with a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging? Try these flies: Hale Bop Leech, Thin Mint, She Demon, Mini Montana Intruder, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Flare-A-Bou, Slum Lord, #14 Chicago Overcoat. For you Scandi folks, try these flies: Biot Midge Emerger, Partridge and Yellow, Tung Dart, Pick N Roll.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches and Chironomids.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, breakfast, lunches and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
June 24, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 5400 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 57+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Sunny, with a high near 78. West wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.
Weekend Recap: Nymphing has been good with the usual Tailwater Sow, Split Case PMD, Blow Torch, and Zirdles when the bite slows down. Working a crayfish pattern this time of year can be really good and should be considered while out on the water. PMDs and Caddis are on top. Keep an eye out for heads and plan your cast and make them count (fly first to the fish).
Nymphing: Nymphing should be excellent. Running a deep rig with your flies 6-8ft from the indicator can prove productive in sunny conditions. When the sun is out, fish hide deep or take cover near the banks to hide from prey, so adjust your strategy to get a fly in front of them. Run double tungsten with BB shot to get down to the fish while the water is running high and fast. A good tip is start long to find bottom, then back the length of your rig off until you're seldomly ticking bottom. Try size 18 Frenchies, Tailwater Sows, Tungsten UV Sows, #16 Black IPTs, Perdigon Jigs, Jig Napoleons, Split Case PMDs, Ascending Caddis, Tung Darts, Caddis Pupa, and Translucent Pupas.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers willing stand the rain, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If you find yourself in a hatch window and fish are up, these are the flies we recommend. Always cast flies first to the fish with a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging? Try these flies: Hale Bop Leech, Thin Mint, She Demon, Mini Montana Intruder, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Flare-A-Bou, Slum Lord, #14 Chicago Overcoat. For you Scandi folks, try these flies: Biot Midge Emerger, Partridge and Yellow, Tung Dart, Pick N Roll.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches and Chironomids.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, breakfast, lunches and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
July 3, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 5400 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 57+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: High near 69. Light and variable wind becoming west 5 to 9 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitaiton is 80%.
Summary: Pack your rain gear! There's a good chance of precipitation, but light winds should allow for some excellent nymph fishing. PMD's and caddis are still the main hatches with Yelow Sallies and brown drakes showing up from time to time. We suggest nymphing with tailwater Sow bugs, split case PMD's, Blow Torches, and some Crayfish imitations like the Zirdle.
Nymphing: Try Tailwater Sows, Tungsten UV Sows, Frenchies, #16 Black IPTs, Perdigon Jigs, Jig Napoleons, Split Case PMDs, Psycho May, Purple Weight Fly, Ascending Caddis, Tung Darts, Caddis Pupa, and Translucent Pupas.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers willing stand the rain, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: If the clouds part and you find yourself in a hatch window, these are the flies we recommend. Always cast flies first to the fish with a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging? Try these flies: Bead Head Caddis Pupa followed by a Transluscent Pupa or PMD Soft Hackle. Micro Leeches and Flash N' Grabs can also get you hooked up.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches and Chironomids.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, breakfast, lunches and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
July 15, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 4180 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 62+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Sunny, with a high near 94. Light and variable wind becoming west southwest 8 to 13 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.
Summary: It's hot and sunny. If you're wanting to get some good shots on fish with dries, get on the water early, winds are expected to pick up around 3:00pm. Dry fly fishing has been amazing with some Caddis and Tricos dominating the water. There are still PMDs around with the trout being focused on spinners. Word on the river is Caddis has been key; Cornfed Caddis, Wike's Hi Vis Spent Caddis, and Keller's Center Stage Caddis in tan. The fish like 'em in the film.
Nymphing: Try Tailwater Sows, Tungsten UV Sows, Frenchies, #16 Black IPTs, Perdigon Jigs, Jig Napoleons, Split Case PMDs, Psycho May, Purple Weight Fly, Ascending Caddis, Tung Darts, Caddis Pupa, and Translucent Pupas.
Streamers: For the die hard streamer anglers willing stand the rain, try Flesh Eating Scuplin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N' Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat, and White Dungeon.
Dy Flies: Always cast flies first to the fish with a Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, Film Critic, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, or Purple Haze.
Trout Spey: Still swinging? Try these flies: Bead Head Caddis Pupa followed by a Transluscent Pupa or PMD Soft Hackle. Micro Leeches and Flash N' Grabs can also get you hooked up.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches and Chironomids.
Hard copies of Daily Fishing Reports can be picked up at The Trout Shop in Craig. Open 7am to 7pm daily. We've got shuttles, drift boat rentals, breakfast, lunches and espresso. Stop in and say hi. Tight lines!
July 24, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 4160 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 64+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Sunshine and a few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 95F. winds SW at 15 to 25 mph.
Summary: Still hot here in Craig. Bring your sunscreen or pick up one of our new sun hoodies at the Trout Shop while you're here. With this hot weather, there will continue to be more and more weeds in the water column. If you're wanting to nymph fish, there will be lots of false casting to get them off. Fishing has been great overall. Dry fly fishing continues to be productive. Caddis, Ants, PMD spinners, and trico spinners are todays specials. Hoppers are also a great option this time of year.
Hoot owls around the state are bringing more and more anglers to the Mo, so it's good to keep that in mind when you come visit. Be courteous to others and share the river, share your sunscreen, share beverages, fish and be merry.
Nymphing: Tailwater Sow, Tungsten UV Sow, Frenchy, #16 Black IPT, Perdigon Jig, Jig Napoleon, Split Case PMD, Psycho May, Purple Weight Fly, Blow Torch, Ascending Caddis, Tung Dart, Caddis Pupa, Translucent Pupa
Streamers: Flesh Eating Sculpin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N’ Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat.
Dy Flies: Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, Purple Haze, Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Split Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Rusty Spinner, Guide Wina Spinna Trico, Clear Wing Trico.
Trout Spey: Bead Head Caddis Pupa followed by a Translucent Pupa, PMD Soft Hackle or Pulsating Emerger, Micro Leeches, Flash N’ Grabs.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches and Chironomids.
Trout Shop is open 6am to 6pm. Come through!
July 26, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 4010 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 65+ Degrees Fahrenheit
Weather: Sunny with a high around 85F. Winds WSW at 10-20 mph.
Summary: Still hot here in Craig. Bring your sunscreen or pick up one of our new sun hoodies at the Trout Shop while you're here. With this hot weather, there will continue to be more and more weeds in the water column. If you're wanting to nymph fish, there will be lots of false casting to get them weeds off. Fishing has been great overall. Micro Mays or pseudo mays have been productive with nymphing. Dry fly fishing continues to be productive. Caddis, Ants, PMD spinners, and trico spinners are todays specials. Hoppers are also a great option this time of year.
Hoot owls around the state are bringing more and more anglers to the Mo, so it's good to keep that in mind when you come visit. Be courteous to others and share the river, share your sunscreen, share beverages, fish and be merry.
Nymphing: Tailwater Sow, Tungsten UV Sow, Frenchy, #16 Black IPT, Perdigon Jig, Jig Napoleon, Split Case PMD, Psycho May, Purple Weight Fly, Blow Torch, Ascending Caddis, Tung Dart, Caddis Pupa, Translucent Pupa
Streamers: Flesh Eating Sculpin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Flash N’ Grab, Montana Intruder, Chicago Overcoat.
Dy Flies: Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Rage Cage Caddis, Hot Mess, Cornfed, 401K, Adams, Ms. Tickle, Purple Haze, Challenged PMD, Sparkle Flag, Split Flag, Film Critic, Profile Spinner, Rusty Spinner, Guide Wina Spinna Trico, Clear Wing Trico.
Trout Spey: Bead Head Caddis Pupa followed by a Translucent Pupa, PMD Soft Hackle or Pulsating Emerger, Micro Leeches, Flash N’ Grabs.
Stillwater: For those of you who choose wide open stillwater, we reccomend these flies: Balanced Leeches and Chironomids.
The Trout Shop is open 6am to 6pm!
N/A
September 12, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 4260 CFS
Water Temp: Temp is 60 Degrees Fahrenheit
Summary: Precipitation has brought cooler air temperatures. Nymphing deeper with a zirdle/streamer and mayfly nymph is getting the most fish. Stick to the inside bends for less weeds. Terrestrials like the cinnamon ant have been working on top. Pulsating emergers in the film. As weeds let go and float on, streamer fishing will get better and better. We're also not far from Trout Spey.
Nymphing: Tailwater Sow, Tufted Zebra, Zebra, Flying Zebra, Tung Teaser, Frenchy, Psycho May, Two Bit Hooker, Mico Mays, Blow Torch, Purple Weight Fly, Jig PT’s, maybe a worm. Zirdle, Yuk Duster or Zonker.
Streamers: Flash N’ Grab, Chicago Overcoat, Flesh Eating Sculpin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Montana Intruder, Sparkle Minnow, Clouser
Dy Flies: Henneberry Hopper, Thunder Thighs Hopper, Glitter Ant, Cinnamon Para Ant, Water Walker, Chubbies, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Cornfed Caddis, Adams, Ms. Tickle Pseudo, Purple Haze, Sparkle Flag, Guide Wina Spinna Trico, Clear Wing Trico, Cluster Midge, Buzzball, Cuzzball
Trout Spey: Small Leech followed by Soft Hackle, or Pulsating Emerger. Montana Intruder .
Try swinging with a Scandi and lightly weighted fly through fast water and over the flats.
Soft Hackles: Partridge and Yellow, Pulsating Emerger
Stillwater: Balanced Leeches, Callibaetis
The Trout Shop is open 6am to 6pm!
N/A
October 3, 2024
Location: Missouri River Below Holter Dam
Flows: 3230 CFS
Water Temp: 58 Degrees
Summary: It's going to be sunny with a high near 61 and mild southwest wind becoming northeast in the afternoon. Nymphing deeper with a zirdle/streamer (like a thin mint or yuk duster) and caddis or mayfly nymph is getting the most fish early in the day. Shorten up your rig in the afternoons. If the sun is off the water, try a streamer. Cooler night time temperatures tell tales of fall and fish will start to react to that by gorging themselves to survive the winter.
Nymphing: Tailwater Sow, Tufted Zebra, Zebra, Flying Zebra, Tung Teaser, Green Machine, Frenchy, Psycho May, Two Bit Hooker, Mico Mays, Blow Torch, Purple Weight Fly, Jig PT’s, maybe a worm. Zirdle, Zonker, Bugger, Thin Mint.
Streamers: Flash N’ Grab, Chicago Overcoat, Flesh Eating Sculpin, She Demon Bugger, Skiddish Smolt, Flare-A-Bou, Montana Intruder, Sparkle Minnow, Clouser
Dy Flies: Glitter Ant, Cinnamon Para Ant, Hi-Vis Spent Caddis, Cornfed Caddis, Orange Chubby, Adams, Ms. Tickle Pseudo, Purple Haze, Cluster Midge, Buzzball, Cuzzball
Trout Spey: Small Leech followed by Soft Hackle, or Pulsating Emerger. Montana Intruder.
Try swinging with a Scandi and lightly weighted fly through fast water and over the flats.
Soft Hackles: Partridge and Yellow, Pulsating Emerger
Stillwater: Balanced Leeches, Callibaetis
The Trout Shop is open 6am to 6pm!