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.

This legendary stretch is a highly productive tailwater that flows north through a steep canyon before emptying into Holter Reservoir near the the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. It’s home to some of the largest trout in the entire Missouri River system. As a result, the Land of Giants has earned a reputation as a world-class fly fishing destination for anglers in search of 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.

Land of the Giants Fishing Seasons

The Land of Giants, or L.O.G., fishes best from April through November. In the spring, rainbow trout move out of Holter Lake and begin swimming upriver to spawn. After the spawn in late spring, the trout settle into summer patterns, spreading out between Holter Reservoir and the upper river system. Their movements often depend on water temperatures and insect hatches.

As fall arrives and the weather cools, the trout become more active in preparation for winter. They often feed heavily during this time, making it a prime season for anglers. If you’re a streamer junkie, fall is ideal for fishing with sinking lines and large flies. Big browns and rainbows tend to get more aggressive and are more likely to chase down larger patterns.

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 L.O.G. 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.