If you spend enough days nymphing rivers like the Missouri, you eventually stop arguing about whether a 10-foot fly rod is worth it and start wondering how you ever lived without one. For years, 9-foot rods were staples. They were versatile, familiar, and “standard.” But modern nymphing—especially on big, technical tailwaters—has evolved. Deeper rigs, longer …
Montana’s world-class rivers offer some of the best fly fishing opportunities in the country, and one of the most effective ways to experience them is from a drift boat. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, fishing from a drift boat allows you to efficiently cover more water, access prime fishing spots, and increase …
When most anglers think of the Missouri River, they picture cold, clear tailwater, long drifts, and technical dry-fly fishing. But tucked just upstream of Holter Dam lies one of Montana’s most overlooked fisheries—Holter Lake. For anglers willing to trade current seams for open water, this reservoir offers some of the most consistent and rewarding stillwater …
As winter sets in over Craig Montana, many anglers stash away their rods and waders, retreating to the warmth of fly-tying benches and daydreaming about spring hatches. But for those willing to embrace the cold, the Missouri River system offers some of the most rewarding and peaceful fly fishing opportunities of the year. The crowds …
Montana is truly blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, particularly when it comes to its rivers, lakes, and streams. Stretching across hundreds of miles, these waterways are the lifeblood of the state. Choosing the perfect fly rod for trout fishing in these pristine waters can often prove to be a challenging decision. With such …
Fly fishing on the Missouri River offers anglers the opportunity to experience world-class fishing in one of Montana’s most picturesque landscapes. A coveted stretch of the Missouri River lies just below Hauser Dam, known as “The Land of the Giants.” This section is famous for its trophy trout and incredible scenery. Fishing below Hauser Dam …
Fly fishing is not just a hobby; for many, it’s a way of life—a passion that runs deep into the oceans, streams, and lakes where trout, tarpon, and other game fish reside. For those who have a love for fly fishing and a desire to share that passion with others, becoming a fishing guide can …
Tucked into a rugged crease of central Montana, just off I-15. Wolf Creek clingings to the banks of the Missouri River, between Helena and Great Falls. Wolf Creek might not grab your attention at first glance, but for those who know the Missouri River, this is a name that carries weight. This is the start …
The Missouri River is renowned for its large, surface-feeding trout. “Head hunting for trout,” is the art of targeting individual rising fish. Head hunting is a challenge that requires precision, patience, and an understanding of trout behavior. This technique is especially popular on the Missouri from Wolf Creek , Craig and clear down river to …
When trout spey season kicks into gear, it’s all about the swing. The grab that comes from a trout inhaling a swung streamer is addictive, it’s the grab that keeps us coming back. But just as important as the cast or the swing is the fly at the end of your line. The Missouri’s trout …
Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River is the small town of Craig Montana. This little trout town is more than just a dot on the map, it’s the gateway to one of the finest tailwater fisheries in the country. This blue-ribbon stretch boasts abundant wildlife, prolific insect hatches, and some of the hardest-working …
The construction of Holter Dam in the early 20th century has had a significant impact on the Mighty Missouri. Standing proud across the river, Holter Dam has not only played a pivotal role in hydroelectric power but has also become a cornerstone of Montana fly fishing. Holter Dam’s Impact on the Missouri River Controlling outflows …
In the world of fly fishing, precision, reliability, and durability matter most. Meet the Orvis Helios 4, the newest evolution of the acclaimed Helios series. It’s built to raise the bar in fly rod performance. Packed with advanced technology and crafted with care, the Helios 4 blends innovation and expertise into a single, high-performance tool. …
When fall sweeps across Montana, the Missouri River undergoes a stunning transformation. The banks glisten with the amber and gold of turning leaves, temperatures drop, and trout get into hyperphagia, a period of heavy feeding. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just taking advantage of the last few outings of the season, fall on the …
Montana is world-renowned for its breathtaking scenery, vast wilderness, and legendary fly fishing. With crystal-clear rivers and streams flowing through rugged landscapes, the state has become a top destination for anglers from around the globe. When it comes to fly fishing in Montana, two of the most popular approaches are wade fishing and drift boat …
Planning a guided fly fishing trip to Montana is exciting, the thought of fishing to big trout on legendary rivers like the Mighty Missouri, Land of the Giants, or Yellowstone is enough to keep any angler up at night. But one question always comes up before the big trip: What should I pack? As Montana …
Sow bugs, or isopods, are small crustaceans that thrive in the cold, clear tailwater fisheries like the Missouri River. The Missouri, particularly the section below Holter Dam, is a classic tailwater trout fishery with an abundance of sow bugs. These little creatures make up a daily diet for trout, specifically in the upper stretches of …
Located below Hauser Dam, this famed section of the Missouri River is just 30 minutes north of downtown Helena. It is known for its large brown and rainbow trout, with fish over the two-foot mark being very possible. The scenery is world class, with towering cliffs, long deep pools, and rolling hillsides providing the perfect …
Nestled in the heart of Montana, the city of Helena is an angler’s paradise with its picturesque rivers, lakes and reservoirs. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and abundant water bodies, this region is a playground for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, Helena’s lakes and reservoirs provide ample opportunities to cast …
The Missouri River from Holter Dam to the town of Cascade is a dry fly fishing paradise. And we believe it offers some of the best dry fly fishing east of the continental divide. This world class stretch of river offers prolific insect hatches, crystal clear water and some impressive trout numbers. Let’s take a …
The Missouri River is known among fly fishermen as one of the best dry fly rivers in the west. Among the many hatches that draw anglers to its banks, the Trico hatch on the Missouri River stands out as a particularly captivating event. From late July through September, the Missouri River transforms into a technical …
It’s August on the Missouri River, and things are rolling along just as expected for late summer. Flows are holding steady around 3,500 CFS, with water temps hanging in the mid-60s. Mornings continue to offer the best action, with fishing tapering off a bit in the afternoons as the sun climbs high and the river …
Crayfish play a vital role in the Missouri River’s food web. As both predator and prey, they sit right in the middle of the aquatic hierarchy. These clawed crustaceans consume plant matter, insects, small fish, and even other crayfish. In doing so, they help regulate populations of other aquatic organisms, promoting balance and biodiversity throughout …
Practice for a Better Fly Fishing When you book a guided fly fishing trip, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. The promise of pristine water, and big fish can give anyone high hopes. But as the trip date looms, many anglers fall into the trap of thinking the guide will take care …
