Nestled in the heart of Montana’s stunning landscapes, Helena is a prime destination for fly fishers seeking world-class angling opportunities. With easy access to nearby rivers, lakes, and streams, as well as a range of attractions in town, Helena serves as the perfect base camp for a Montana fly fishing adventure. Fly Fishing the Missouri …
Cleaning your fly line is an important part of maintenance and will help you catch more fish. With today’s premium fly lines ranging from 90-125 dollars I try to get the most out of them. Below are some of the benefits of keeping your fly line in good shape. Increased casting distance: Over time, dirt …
With the variety of flies that anglers and guides carry, one particular fly stands out as the undisputed king: the Rusty Spinner. This seemingly simple pattern has earned its crown on Montanas Missouri River for good reason. The Trusty Rusty The Rusty Spinner is a dry fly pattern that imitates the spent stage of mayflies. …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
The emergence of the Pale Morning Dun on the Missouri RIver can be a magical time. As a fly angler, one of the most exhilarating experiences is witnessing a hatch. The sight of mayflies emerging and fish rising to feed can be captivating and challenging. Many fly anglers eagerly anticipate the Pale Morning Dun hatch. …
The fishability and performance of the Hell’s Bay Professional are unlike any other skiff I’ve been on. Having spent thousands of hours in various boats and skiffs, I can confidently say that the Hell’s Bay Pro is the best skiff for South Carolina’s technical fishery. Hells Bay -World’s Finest Skiffs. After months of researching online …
Montana boasts some of the most breathtaking and picturesque landscapes in the entire country. It is a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities and opportunities to connect with nature. From towering mountains and vast plains to sparkling lakes and forests. Montana’s natural beauty is unparalleled. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, these …
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 …
When it comes to experiencing fly fishing in Montana, many anglers often rely on the expertise of fly fishing guides. Professional fishing guides are often a treasure trove of knowledge. Local waters, fish behavior, entomology and effective techniques to be used at different times. Pay attention to their instructions and ask questions if you’re unsure …
Crayfish play a critical part in the Missouri River’s food web. They serve as both predator and prey. Their diet includes plant matter, insects, small fish, and other crayfish. As a result, they help to control the populations of other aquatic organisms, and help maintain a healthy ecosystem. Crayfish also help to keep the water …
Nestled in the heart of Montana’s rugged landscape lies the majestic Smith River system, a cherished gem among outdoorsmen and conservationists. Its clean waters wind through breathtaking canyons and verdant valleys, offering unparalleled opportunities for fishing, camping, rafting, and solitude. However, the tranquility of this iconic river is now facing a potential threat with the …
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 …
The Gates of the Mountains and Holter Reservoir just 10 miles north of Helena is truly a hidden gem. Situated along the Missouri River, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish populations. Whether it’s a leisurely day of fishing or an exhilarating excursion into the backcountry, Holter Reservoir promises an unforgettable experience for …
Having owned many boats—from poling skiffs to offshore boats and jet boats—I’ve learned that no boat is perfect. Every build is a balance of speed, performance, and maneuverability. When designing the ideal jet boat for the Land of the Giants section of the Missouri River, I settled on the 1860 Crestliner with a Mercury 90/60 …
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 spring creeks in Montana is a cherished experience for those who seek the thrill of casting dry flies at weary trout. Montana is blessed with some of the best spring creeks in the world. Crystal-clear water that flows from underground springs, creating ideal conditions for trout to thrive. What is a Spring Creek? …
A fly fishing trip to Montana is an unforgettable experience, but careful planning is key to making the most of it. Choosing the right time of year, location, and gear ensures a successful and enjoyable adventure. Travel and Flights to Montana If you’re flying into Montana for your trip, you’ll likely arrive at either Helena …
Best known for its blue ribbon trout streams, Montana offers another exciting opportunity for anglers: fly fishing for northern pike. These apex predators provide a different kind of thrill, and exploring their world through fly fishing is an adventure and can be an exhilarating experience you won’t want to miss. The Northern Pike Northern pike, …
The Skwala hatch is a highlight of the spring fishing season here in Montana. Anglers from around the world travel to Montanas free stone rivers to experience the this renowned hatch. The skwala hatch is eagerly anticipated because it’s one of the first opportunities of the year to fish larger dry flies. Let’s explore the …
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 …
