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Home » Blog | Reports » Missouri River Float Distances

Missouri River Float Distances

Orvis Endorsed Missouri River outfitter - Jeff Lattig by Jeff Lattig on December 9, 2024 (Updated: February 15, 2026)
Craig Montana Boat launch

The Missouri River is often hailed as one of the best trout fisheries in the United States, and for good reason. This stretch of river, from Holter Dam to Cascade, offers consistent flows, cold temperatures, and an abundance of aquatic life that keeps the trout fat and healthy year-round. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, floating this river offers an unforgettable experience. To help you plan your trip, here’s a breakdown of the float lengths and take-outs from Holter Dam all the way down to the town of 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
Spring Fishing - Missouri River

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: Fishing News
Orvis Endorsed Missouri River outfitter - Jeff Lattig

About Jeff Lattig

Jeff Lattig is a Montana-based fly fishing guide and outfitter

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