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 …
Most days on the Missouri River, we’re fishing dry flies or nymph rigs. It’s a tailwater built for that — consistent flows, clear water, fish that see a lot of flies. But nymphs and dries aren’t always the best tool for targeting the river’s larger, more predatory trout. Big browns and rainbows didn’t get that …
Come October, my dogs and I are chasing wild roosters all over Montana. Not only do I enjoy pursuing these birds, but I also make use of every part of them. We have fine meals, the tail feathers adorn our Christmas tree for decoration, and of course, they make excellent flies. At the end of …
Cleaning your fly line is one of the simplest things you can do to improve your fishing — and one of the most overlooked. With premium fly lines running $90–$125, it pays to take care of them. A well-maintained line casts better, floats higher, and lasts significantly longer than a neglected one. Here’s why it …
Every guide has a version of this story. You’re rowing, reading the water, setting up for a drift you’ve made a hundred times — and from the front of the boat comes a voice: “Can we try over there?” It’s well-meaning. It almost always is. Maybe it’s a point toward the far bank, maybe it’s …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Some hatches can be predictable. The Mother’s Day caddis is one of them — and after a long Montana winter, it might be the most anticipated event of the year. When it fires, the Missouri River transforms. Fish that have been tight to the bottom for months suddenly start looking up, and big dry flies …
If there’s one skill that separates anglers who consistently catch trout from those who don’t, it’s mending. You can have a perfect cast, a great fly, and be standing in the right spot — and still get skunked because your line is dragging. Learning how to mend fly line is the single biggest thing most …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Pawleys Island South Carolina is a year round fishery but the big tides we see in the spring , summer and fall months are something you don’t want to miss. Flood tide fishing begins as early as March if we have warm water temperatures. Spring brings warmer water, longer days, and big tides that flood …
When fly fishing the Pawleys Island area choosing the right fly pattern can make all the difference. It can be confusing with so many patterns to choose from. My good friend and fishing buddy Mark and I enjoy talking about and tying Saltwater flies. Most conversations are about fly patterns, colors and their effectiveness on …
Speckled Sea Trout fishing means explosive bites and aggressive fights! The way sea trout fight and there beautiful colors make them a spectacular game fish! Big yellow mouths lined with teeth and fangs make them an ultimate ambush predator. Small trout feed primarily on shrimp and small bait fish. The smaller fish will be males …
Fly Selection for South Carolina Saltwater One of the most common questions my fly fishing clients ask is about fly selection—what I fish and what I trust. The good news is that saltwater fly fishing in South Carolina is refreshingly simple. A few months back, I had the good fortune to spend a day with …
