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Home » Fishing Tips

Fishing Tips

Missouri river caddis hatch - brown trout

Missouri River Caddis Hatch

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreMissouri River Caddis Hatch
Missouri River brown trout

Crayfish Patterns for the Missouri

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreCrayfish Patterns for the Missouri
jumping rainbow trout

Streamer Fishing the Land of the Giants

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 when casting large streamer flies. The scenery is spectacular, with towering cliffs, long deep pools, and rolling …

Read moreStreamer Fishing the Land of the Giants
Blue wing olive

Fishing the Blue Wing Olive Hatch

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreFishing the Blue Wing Olive Hatch
missouri river guides

Streamer Fishing with Sinking Lines

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreStreamer Fishing with Sinking Lines
Missouri River Fly fishing guides

Fishing From a Drift Boat

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreFishing From a Drift Boat
fly fishing

Fly Line Maintenance

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreFly Line Maintenance
dry fly fishing the missouri river

Tips For Dry Fly Fishing the Missouri

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreTips For Dry Fly Fishing the Missouri
Trout Fishing and warm water

Trout Fishing and Warm Water

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreTrout Fishing and Warm Water
montana orvis endorsed fishing guide

Tipping your Fishing Guide

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreTipping your Fishing Guide
Adipose drift boat- Missouri river

Dont Guide the Guide

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreDont Guide the Guide
traveling with fly fishing rods

Traveling with Fly Rods

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreTraveling with Fly Rods
fly fishing spring creeks in Montana

Fishing Spring Creeks in Montana

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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? …

Read moreFishing Spring Creeks in Montana
planning a fly fishing trip

Planning for a Montana Fishing Trip

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read morePlanning for a Montana Fishing Trip
dry fly fishing the Missouri river from a drift boat

Dry Fly Fishing the Missouri

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreDry Fly Fishing the Missouri
fishing the pale morning dun hatch - Missouri river

Fishing Access on the Missouri River

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

The Missouri river is a large and diverse tailwater that offers a wide range of fly fishing opportunities. There are several public fishing access points along the Missouri River from Holter dam to Cascade Montana. However, river access can be confusing for those who are new to the state or unfamiliar with its laws. In …

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Orvis endorsed outfitter and guides

Walk and Wade Fishing in Montana

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

Montana offers endless opportunities for fly fishing. One of the most rewarding ways to experience the state’s incredible fisheries is through wade fishing.  The Essence of Walk and Wade Fly Fishing Unlike fishing from a drift boat, wade fishing allows anglers to explore remote stretches of rivers, find secluded side channels, and experience a more …

Read moreWalk and Wade Fishing in Montana
Sustaining Montana's Rivers

Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

Ahh spring, Montana really comes alive during the spring months with the arrival of wildflowers, warmer weather and rising trout. After a long winter anglers are chomping at the bit for pleasant weather and events like the Mother’s Day caddis hatch. Timing the Hatch Around mid May is when we begin to see our first …

Read moreMother’s Day Caddis Hatch
best redfish flies

Best Redfish Flies

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

When it comes to flies for Redfish, the selection isn’t as critical as the presentation. Where, how, and when the fly lands are everything. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the abundance of fly options available, but the most important factor is delivering the fly quickly and accurately into the fish’s path or line of …

Read moreBest Redfish Flies
Sustaining Montana's Rivers

Float and Wade Fishing Montana

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

Montana is a state known for its beautiful scenery, vast wilderness, and world-class fly fishing. With its crystal-clear rivers and streams, Montana is a haven for fly anglers. Two of the most popular ways to fish in Montana are wade fishing and drift boat fishing. Let’s explore the differences and benefits of float and wade …

Read moreFloat and Wade Fishing Montana
jet boat | Missouri River

Helena’s Lakes and Reservoirs

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

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 …

Read moreHelena’s Lakes and Reservoirs
flounder fishing

 Pawleys Island Flounder

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

Flounder Fishing Pawleys Island  is part of the culture! During the warmer months you see families flounder fishing from docks and causeways.  Southern flounder begin moving in from deeper nearshore reefs into tidal creeks and as the water begins to warm.  Pawleys Island Flounder will thrive and spawn in our marsh and inlets until late …

Read more Pawleys Island Flounder
Guy holding Redfish - santee delta

South Carolina’s Prize Inshore Game Fish

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

A fish that can grow up to 70 lb + or – and feeds in the shallows.  What else could a saltwater angler ask for?   Fishing for South Carolina Redfish, also known as Spot Tail Bass or puppy drum, are without a doubt the most targeted inshore game fish along the Grand Strand. Life Cycle …

Read moreSouth Carolina’s Prize Inshore Game Fish
fly fishing myrtle beach

Fly Fishing Winyah Bay

outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig

The historic sea port of  Georgetown is the third oldest city in South Carolina as well as the third largest watershed on the East Coast.  Four major rivers confluence at the bay; the Black , PeeDee , Waccamaw and the Sampit.   As a result of this fresh and saltwater confluence it provides essential nutrients …

Read moreFly Fishing Winyah Bay
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