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Missouri River Fly Fishing Guides | Craig, Montana

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Home » River Journal » Missouri River Float Distances

Missouri River Float Distances

Orvis Endorsed Missouri River outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig on December 9, 2024 (Updated: April 6, 2026)
Missouri river float distances

The Missouri River from Holter Dam to Cascade runs 35 miles through some of the most productive trout water in the country. Consistent flows, cold temperatures, and a dense aquatic food base keep fish feeding year-round. Whether you’re planning your first float or scouting a new section, here’s a breakdown of every put-in and take-out from the Holter dam to Cascade. Distances are approximate.

Missouri River Float Distance Chart

Holter Dam to Cascade • All Distances Approximate

1. Holter Dam
Section Distance: —
Total from Holter: 0 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking, restrooms
2. Wolf Creek Bridge
Section Distance: 2.3 mi
Total from Holter: 2.3 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
3. Craig
Section Distance: 5.5 mi
Total from Holter: 7.8 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking, fly shops, shuttles
4. Stickney Creek
Section Distance: 3.7 mi
Total from Holter: 11.5 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
5. Spite Hill
Section Distance: 0.7 mi
Total from Holter: 12.2 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
6. Dearborn
Section Distance: 1.5 mi
Total from Holter: 13.7 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
7. Mid Cannon
Section Distance: 1.5 mi
Total from Holter: 15.2 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
8. Mountain Palace
Section Distance: 6.0 mi
Total from Holter: 21.2 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
9. Prewett Creek
Section Distance: 1.2 mi
Total from Holter: 22.4 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
10. Pelican Point
Section Distance: 3.5 mi
Total from Holter: 25.9 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
11. Cascade
Section Distance: 9.1 mi
Total from Holter: 35.0 mi
Facilities: Boat ramp, parking
River Flow Guide
🔵 Low Flows (Below 3,500 cfs)
Shallow sections more pronounced. Great for wade fishing. Navigate riffles carefully. Expect to share water with walk-and-wade anglers.
🟢 Ideal Flows (4,500-8,000 cfs)
Perfect floating conditions. Side channels open, hazards manageable, fish actively feeding. Best overall experience for most anglers.
🔴 High Flows (Above 8,000 cfs)
Faster currents require strong rowing. Side channels may disappear. Anchoring more challenging. Monitor conditions closely.
Essential Float Tips
✓ Plan ahead based on season and current fishing conditions
✓ Arrange shuttle service in advance—Craig has reliable local options
✓ Check weather and river conditions before launching
✓ Give wade anglers space—float on opposite side of river
✓ Anchor in eddies, not prime seams—leave productive water for others
✓ Know your take-out in advance—you don’t want to miss it
Craig Montana Boat launch

River Etiquette

  1. Respect wade anglers: Communicate, float on the far side of the river from wade anglers. Avoid rowing directly through their runs or lingering in high-traffic spots.
  2. Be mindful of other boats: Maintain a safe distance, especially when passing boats that are anchored. Communicate your intentions clearly.
  3. Anchor with care: If you’re stopping to fish, find a safe eddy and avoid blocking key seams or runs for other anglers.
Category: Planning
Orvis Endorsed Missouri River outfitter - Jeff Lattig

About Jeff Lattig

Jeff Lattig is a Coast Guard licensed captain and Orvis-endorsed outfitter with over a decade of guiding experience across fresh and saltwater fisheries. He founded and operates Living Water Guide Service on Montana’s Missouri River.

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