Three Must Haves from a backcountry Guide There are some fly fishers who crave a certain type of solitude—the kind that involves strapping on a backpack, hiking up a mountain to an alpine lake, or bouncing down dirt roads to a remote stream, then trekking for miles through gin-clear water just to cast dry flies …
July has arrived in full force, and the river is fishing well. We’re solidly into our summer patterns now, and there’s something for just about every angler—from early risers chasing heads on the Trico spinner fall to afternoon prospectors rolling dries blind through the flats. Flows, Temps, and River Conditions Outflows from Holter Dam are …
Hoot owl restrictions in Montana refer to fishing regulations that are put in place during times of high water temperatures. These regulations are designed to protect fish when they are most vulnerable to stress due to low oxygen levels. These restrictions, named after the time of day when owls are most active (early morning or …
Montana, renowned for its incredible rivers and abundant trout, attracts anglers from all over the world. However, with increasing temperatures and lower water levels, trout face significant stress, and the responsibility falls on anglers, guides and outfitters to adopt practices that ensure the sustainability and health of these cherished fish. Below are some key considerations …
For many anglers, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of seeing a trout break the water’s surface and sip a carefully placed dry fly. But achieving success in dry fly fishing requires more than just luck. It demands skill, patience, and practice. Whether you’re a seasoned dry fly angler or just starting out, these dry …
Traveling with fly fishing rods can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for any angler. On one hand, there’s the anticipation of exploring new waters, chasing elusive fish, and experiencing the thrill of the catch. On the other hand, there’s the challenge of transporting delicate gear safely and ensuring it arrives intact at your destination. Let’s …
June is a fine time to be on the Missouri River. The water’s alive, the bugs are hatching, and the trout are looking up. If you’ve been waiting for the Missouri to show off, June is the month, thick hatches, rising fish, and enough daylight to make you forget what time it is. See below …
Fly fishing isn’t just a hobby; it’s a passion that takes us to serene waters, allowing us to connect with nature in a profound way. Behind every successful fishing trip lies the expertise and dedication of professional fishing guides and outfitters. Great guides not only know the waters intimately but also possess a strong ability …
May on the Missouri River has delivered a true spring spectacle. With flows around 4,500 CFS and water temperature hovering around 50°F, the river is in great shape despite the steady rain that’s been falling across the region. The extra moisture has really helped things green up and will help to fill our reservoirs. May …
The emergence of the Pale Morning Dun on the Missouri River is a magical time and one of the most anticipated events in Montana. Watching these mayflies come off the water and trout rise with purpose is captivating. PMDs hatch on many rivers across the state, but what happens on the Missouri is in a …
Somewhere between the launch ramp and the takeout, the definition of a “successful” day on the water gets a little murky. For some, it’s a matter of numbers—how many fish hit the net, how many grip-and-grins were snapped. But for others, especially those of us who’ve spent a lifetime on the water, it’s something deeper, …
From the month of May through Septmeber hard core dry fly anglers are either on the Missouri River or dreaming about it. Late spring is the beginning of dry fly season especially for those who love the Missouri river caddis hatch. The caddis hatch occurs every year when millions of caddis flies emerge from the …
The Blue Wing Olive (BWO) is a member of the Baetis family, a common insect found in our beloved Missouri River. This small insect plays a big role in the food chain, serving as an important calorie source for brown and rainbow trout. Let’s explore the entomology, life cycle, and patterns for fishing the Blue …
In the world of guiding, there’s a quiet current that runs through the community—one of pride, skill, stories, and yes, ego too. It’s a job that demands a lot. Early mornings. Long days. High expectations. And a never-ending pursuit of fish. But above all, guiding is a people’s job. And the truth is, the people …
Spring on the Missouri, particularly the section below Holter Dam, is a time of transition. The river’s famed blue-ribbon section from Wolf Creek to Cascade comes to life, and the opportunity for exceptional fishing begins. The bitter cold days of winter give way to an energized fishery as water temperatures begin to rise. Brown and …
Having owned a wide range of boats—including big center consoles, technical poling skiffs, jet boats, and drift boats—I recognize quality and attention to detail when I see it. As a full-time fishing outfitter and guide, my boats are more than just equipment; they’re my office and my livelihood. Adipose drift boats are built in Helena, …
Good vs. Great Fly Fishing Guides: The Difference is in the Details Professional fly fishing guides are as diverse as the waters they navigate, from the vast flats of the Florida Keys to the technical tailwaters in Montana. While many guides can put clients on fish, the truly great ones elevate the experience far beyond …
For those passionate about fly fishing, the name Orvis is synonymous with quality, tradition, and a commitment to the outdoors. One of the hallmarks of their dedication to excellence in fly fishing is the Orvis Endorsed program. An Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Outfitter is a service that has been carefully selected to meet stringent standards …
Few rivers in the American West are as entomologically rich and trout filled as the Missouri River between Holter Dam and Cascade, Montana. Sustained by cold regulated flows, and prolific aquatic life, this 35-mile stretch is a bug factory. From midges in winter to clouds of Tricos in late summer, trout here are supported by …
A world-class fly fishing destination and one of Montana’s finest fisheries, the Missouri River sits just a short drive from Helena. This a year-round tailwater begins at Holter Dam and flows north 35 miles through Wolf Creek, Craig, and down to Cascade. Along the way, it’s lined with deep pools, shallow flats, and productive riffles—prime …
Montana’s reputation as a fly fishing paradise is often tied to its world-class rivers. But for the discerning angler, the state’s stillwater fisheries offer equally rewarding opportunities. Lakes and reservoirs such as Holter Lake or Hebgen lake provide diverse habitats where trout grow fat on the abundant aquatic life. Success in these waters often hinges …
While dry fly purists may focus on rising trout, nymphing—specifically short leash nymphing—offers an effective way to target trout before, during, and after a hatch in the shallows. Short leash nymphing on the Missouri River combines precision, adaptability, and an understanding of the river’s unique characteristics. Here’s a dive into the short leash program, complete …
The Missouri River is often hailed as one of the best trout fisheries in the United States, and for good reason. This stretch of river, from Holter Dam to Cascade, offers consistent flows, cold temperatures, and an abundance of aquatic life that keeps the trout fat and healthy year-round. Whether you’re an experienced angler or …
Streamer fishing is a dynamic and exhilarating method of fly fishing for trout. Streamers can entices aggressive strikes from big predatory Brown and Rainbow trout. While traditional dry fly or nymph fishing focuses on imitating aquatic insects, streamer fishing mimics baitfish, leeches, and crayfish. One of the keys to success in streamer fishing is utilizing …
