Missouri River Float Distances and Takeouts ~ Living Water Guides

Holter Dam to Cascade

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 on the Missouri River 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
→ Get directions

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 become more pronounced. Side channels may require lining or dragging in spots. Good conditions for walk-and-wade anglers – give them room. Check before you launch.

🟢 Ideal Flows (4,500-8,000 cfs)

The Missouri fishes best in this range. Side channels open up, hazards are manageable, and fish are actively feeding across the water column. Most guided float days run in this window.

🔴 High Flows (Above 8,000 cfs)

Currents move fast and anchoring gets technical. Side channels can push fish into unpredictable lies. Experienced oarsmen only. If you’re unsure, this is a good time to call a guide.

-> Check current flows at the Holter Dam gauge (USGS)

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

Floating a new section for the first time? Our guides run this water daily, they know which ramps are worth the drive, which sections hold fish in each season, and how to read conditions before they become problems.

PLAN A GUIDED FLOAT

River Etiquette

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.
Be mindful of other boats: Maintain a safe distance, especially when passing boats that are anchored. Communicate your intentions clearly.
Anchor with care: If you’re stopping to fish, find a safe eddy and avoid blocking key seams or runs for other anglers.

Missouri River Float Distances and Takeouts

Missouri River Float Distance Chart

River Etiquette

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