While most anglers on the Mo use traditional single hand rods for nymphing under an indicator or presenting dry flies to rising fish. More anglers are discovering the thrill of Spey fishing the Missouri River. Swinging flies with a light trout spey rods not only offers a different way to target big trout, but it also allows for effective presentations in a bunch of different conditions. Swinging flies can also help extending the fishing season well beyond the warmer months.
Why Trout Spey on the Missouri River?
Spey casting has its roots in the rivers of Scotland and the Pacific Northwest, but it has found a home on the Mighty Mo. The Missouri, with its long riffles, deep runs, and consistent flows, is the perfect river to use this method. Swinging flies allows two handed casters a way to target aggressive trout in a way that is fun and feels more interactive. Perhaps the greatest appeal of trout spey on the Missouri is its ability to shine during colder shoulder seasons. Fall and spring offer prime conditions for swinging streamers and soft hackles, as trout are more willing to chase and eat.
The Best Seasons to Spey Fish the Missouri River
While you can swing flies year-round, some seasons are better than others.
- Spring (March-May): As water temperatures rise and trout shake off winter lethargy, they become more aggressive toward streamers. This is an excellent time to swing small leech patterns and flashy baitfish imitations.
- Fall (September-November): Perhaps the best time for Spey anglers. Brown trout are in pre-spawn mode and highly territorial, making them particularly responsive to swung streamers. Additionally, cooler water temps keep fish active throughout the day.
- Winter (December-February): The swing game slows down, but it isn’t impossible. A well-presented leech or baitfish pattern fished deep and slow can still entice a take from a sluggish but opportunistic trout.
Choosing the Right Setup: Scandi vs Skagit:
At the heart of Spey fishing are two primary line systems—Scandi heads and Skagit heads. Each has a distinct purpose and can help you match your approach to conditions and fly choice.
- Scandi Heads :
Designed for finesse and presentation, Scandi lines excel when fishing smaller and lighter flies. Their longer, tapered design makes them perfect for delicate casts and smooth turnovers. On the Missouri River, Scandi setups shine during caddis or mayfly hatches, or anytime trout are keyed in on smaller patterns. If you want accuracy and subtle presentations, a Scandi head is the right tool. - Skagit Heads :
Skagit lines are short, powerful, and built to deliver heavy flies and sink tips. On the Missouri, Skagit setups are ideal when fishing deeper or faster water with streamers, leeches, or sculpins, especially during colder months when trout hold lower in the water column. The extra power of a Skagit head gets your flies down quickly and keeps them swinging in the strike zone
A highly Effective Method of Trout Fishing
Spey fishing the Missouri River offers a refreshing and highly effective way to target trout in one of the finest trout fisheries in North America. you’re swinging soft hackles during a hatch, stripping streamers in the fall, or methodically working a leech in mid-winter, the two-handed spey fishing is pure fun.