At the northern reaches of Holter Reservoir lies Hauser Dam, a towering structure that not only regulates the flow of the Missouri River but also serves as a prime fishing destination. Here the Missouri River flows north through a steep canyon and eventually into the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area on Holter Reservoir . This sections of the Missouri River is called “The Land of the Giants.” Aptly named, is a specific stretch of the River that is revered for its abundant and massive trout. Here, anglers have the chance to encounter some truly impressive fish, often exceeding the average sizes found in other sections of the river. As a result, the Land of the Giants reach has become a prime destination for fly fishermen seeking the thrill of landing trophy-sized trout.
Fishing Access to the Land of the Giants
The best way to experience fly fishing in the Land of the Giants is by jet boat. Jet boats are shallow-draft vessels that help navigate the fast currents and shallow waters of the upper River. Guided fishing trips depart from the Gates of the Mountains marina every morning beginning in April. These boats are used to travel across Holter Lake and up the river providing quick access to areas that are unreachable by foot travel. Upon arrival, guides will row using oars, just like a drift boat. The use of oars helps the guide to manage the drift and avoid hazards like submerged rocks and shallow gravel bars.
Fly Fishing the Land of the Giants
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, anglers can cast their lines against the backdrop of towering cliffs, rolling hills, and expansive open skies. Rainbow and Brown trout measuring up to 24″ are not uncommon. These massive fish are a true testament to the health and vibrancy of the fishery. In my personal experience, most fish over 24″ are caught on the lower reaches of the river. These trophy fish like the slower areas 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 PMD and Caddis hatch. These hatches begin in 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 mid 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 pre spawn in April through December. The summer, trout will move out of Holter lake and begin to swim upriver looking for cooler and more oxygenated water. During the fall, the weather cools down, and the river becomes less crowded. The trout also become more active as they prepare for the winter, feeding heavily in preparation for the colder months. Fall is a great time to fish with sinking fly lines and large streamers. Big brown and Rainbow trout become more aggressive and are more likely to chase after large streamers.
Fly Fishing Methods
Fly fishing is the most popular method used on the Missouri River, and anglers typically use a variety of tactics. Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers can all be used to fool these large trout. Anglers should be prepared to use heavier, 6-weight rods to find success on this stretch of water. The stillwater fishing on Holter Lake is world-class, and the lake provides great Chironomid and Callibaetis hatches. Sight fishing with large dry flies or stripping buggers or leeches can all produce large fish.
Indicator Fishing Subsurface
The Land of Giants is a place where you can get deep into your backing. I recommend 9’ 6″ rods to help manage the drift from a boat. Reels with smooth drags are also essential for protecting lighter tippets and small flies. Nymphing is a very effective way to target these fish. When nymphing, we’re often fishing two nymphs on a 4X tippet 4-5′ from the split shot to the indicator. Adjusting depth as needed.
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 me out of bed in the morning. Streamer rods should be 7-8 weights. These stouter rods really help when chucking and ducking larger flies on full sinking fly lines. A 6 weight is sufficient when casting smaller wooly buggers and leeches.
Dry Fly Fishing the Land of Giants
The Dry fly fishing at the Land of Giants can be fantastic. Swarms of Caddis, PMD and Trico hatches can be epic. Not to mention the grasshopper 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.
In addition to fly fishing, the Land of Giants is also known for its abundant 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. Breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and massive trout, this stretch of river is truly a fly-fishing paradise. Our US coast Guard captains have an intimate knowledge of this fishery, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.