Great Falls Fishing Report 02.15.18
Missouri River
I’m still trying to remember how fun it was when I got out the week before last. For the past two weeks, it’s been fly tying season. Right now the Mo is running over 5000K. Lots of snow in the Missouri River Basin. One Hundred Forty-Five percent of normal snow/water equivalency currently listed. If conditions hold, we will see some strong runoff this spring.
It looks like the yo-yo is going to swing our way for possible fishing on Friday and Saturday before it drops to the bottom again. Temps near or above freezing with clouds could mean some really good fishing.
Winter on the Missouri River
February can be a great month when the weather cooperates. In the coldest weather, fish within a mile or two of Holter Dam. After a few milder days, you can venture beyond Craig. Always be aware of drifting shelf ice, especially after sustained cold weather.
Fish will be stationed near drop offs and shelves or cruising the slower flows. Look for walking speed current. Most days, the action will pick up around 11 a.m. and fall off quick as the sun drops.
If you get out in the afternoon on a milder day, the water temp will warm up that one precious degree or two that really gets the fish moving. When we get those 35 to 45+ degree days, its game on.
Trout Spey
Always a great activity during the winter months. Scandi or integrated floating lines and long leaders work great in the slower flows. Skagit heads with tips work best for dropping flies off shelves.
Best Winter Flies on the Missouri River?
Streamers
Trout Medusa, Montana Mini Intruder, Kreelex, TFP Polar Minnow, Jawbreaker Tubes, Vendetta Cray, Grand Master Phoenix, BB Damsel Dragon Bugger, GB Bugger, OB Squirrel Leech, RL Thin Mint, TFP Balanced Squirrels and Balanced Leeches.
Nymphs
Skurps, Pink Caviar Scud, Pink Ray’s, Pink Fire Bead Sow, Pink Poxyback Sow, Pink Soft Hackle Sow, Pink Firebead Soft Hackle Sow, Pink Crush, Mini Mo Czech, Rainbow Weight Fly, Pink Thunderbug, Rainbow Warrior, TFP Tufted Zebra, TFP Mo Zebra, JuJubee Midge, Zebra Midge, Tailwater Tiny, Tung Teaser, Gut Bomb Sow, Tailwater Sow, Rainbow Czechs, Worms, Eggs
Dries
Griffiths, Cluster Midge, CDC Midge Adult, Hanging Midge, Para Adams
Fly Tying Season and Events
Fly tiers are always welcome at our fly shop counter. Grab a stool and tie a fly or two. Next fly tying night at the Mighty Mo is February 20.
Missouri River Fly Fishers Banquet tickets on sale now for February 24th.
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