If you’ve ever dreamed of targeting big trout in a stretch of river that lives up to its name, the Land of Giants (LOG) below Hauser Dam on the Missouri River should be on your radar. We are one of the very few outfitters permitted to access to the Land of Giants section of the Missouri River through the Gates of the Mountains Marina.
This legendary section is an incredibly productive tailwater flowing north through a steep canyon and eventually into the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area on Holter Reservoir. This reach of the upper river holds some of the largest trout in the Missouri River system. As a result, the Land of the Giants has become a world-class fly fishing destination for those seeking the thrill of targeting trophy-sized trout.
Accessing the Land of the Giants Section
The best way to experience fly fishing in the Land of the Giants is by jet boat (power drifter). These boats are used to travel across Upper Holter Lake and up to Hauser Dam. Upon arrival, guides will row using oars, just like a traditional drift boat. The current is moderate, but the deeper runs and riffles demand mobility—this is where a jet boat shines. Unlike traditional drift boats that require a shuttle, a jet boat allows anglers and guides to motor upstream and fish multiple prime spots throughout the day. Our guided fly fishing trips depart from the Gates of the Mountains Marina every morning, beginning in April and running through October.
Fly Fishing the Land of the Giants
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, anglers can cast their lines against a backdrop of towering cliffs, rolling hills, and expansive open skies. Rainbow and brown trout measuring up to 24 inches are not uncommon. These massive fish are a true testament to the health and vibrancy of the fishery. The majority of trout over 24 inches are caught in the lower reaches of the river, where the currents are slow to moderate. These trophy fish thrive in the slower sections of the river, where they don’t have to expend unnecessary energy.
Best Time to Fish the Land of the Giants
One of the best times to fly fish in the Land of Giants is during the annual pale morning dun (PMD) and Caddis hatch. These hatches begin in late June and run through August. During the Caddis hatch, the Missouri River is alive with large trout feeding on the surface. The Pale Morning Dun hatch typically begins late June offering fantastic dry fly fishing on the Land of Giants. Pods of rising trout can be seen sipping these pale yellow mayflies in the slicks or back eddies along the river banks.
Missouri River Fishing Seasons
The Land of Giants fishes best from April through November. In the summer, trout move out of Holter Lake and begin to swim upriver, searching for cooler, more oxygenated water. During the fall, the weather cools down, and the trout become more active as they prepare for winter. Fall trout can and will feed heavily in preparation for the colder months. If you are a streamer junkie fall is a great time to fish with sinking fly lines and large flies. Big brown and rainbow trout become more aggressive and are more likely to chase larger flies.
Fly Fishing Methods
Fly fishing is the most popular method on the Missouri River, and anglers typically use a variety of tactics. Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers can all be effective in fooling these large trout.
Indicator Fishing Subsurface
Nymphing is a very effective way to target these trout. With abundant sow bugs, scuds,crayfish and mayfly nymphs, anglers often will have the most success fishing subsurface with two nymphs. Well-presented flies under an indicator dredging deep runs and a drag-free drift is key.
Streamer Fishing the Land of Giants
Streamer fishing is a fan favorite at LOG. It can be very effective and provides an exciting visual experience. Watching a two-foot brown trout chase and inhale a streamer is what gets us out of bed in the morning. Streamer rods should be fast action 6 – 7 weights. These stouter rods really help when chucking and ducking larger flies on full sinking fly lines.
Dry Fly Fishing the Land of Giants
The dry fly fishing at the Land of Giants can be fantastic. Swarms of caddis, pale morning dun and trico hatches can be epic, not to mention the terrestrial fishing during the afternoons. Seeing one of these giants slurp a big foam dry fly off the surface of the water can be an exhilarating experience.
Target Species
While the Land of Giants section of the Missouri River is known for its impressive trout, it’s important to note that the river has a variety of fish. Mountain whitefish, Kokanee Salmon, Northern Pike, Perch and Walleye. In fact, the state record Walleye was caught in Holter Lake not far from the marina. Anglers looking for a unique fishing experience will not be disappointed with what this fishery has to offer.
Abundant Wildlife and Geology
In addition to fly fishing, the Land of Giants area is also known for its abundant Montana wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see bald eagles, osprey, beavers, otters, and other wildlife along the river. The area is also home to several species of big game, including bears, deer, goats, and bighorn sheep. The Land of Giants section of the Missouri River is a must-visit destination. With breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and massive trout, this stretch of river is truly a fly-fishing paradise.
