Great Falls, Montana Fishing Report 07.26.18
Missouri River
If you like wading the Missouri River, your time has come. The water has fallen below the 6K mark. It will likely be in the 5K range for some time, but who knows. It’s been really hard to predict the flows this year. In any event, the higher waters are over. From now on, it will be low and likely lower.
Nymphs
The Zirdle continues to be a popular fly and is still producing for some. Purple or grape weight flies are another solid go-to. You’ll want to trail with your favorite scud/sow. Lots of #14-#18 mayfly patterns are working like the venerable green machine. It won’t be long before the zebra in #18 and #20 takes center stage again up toward the dam. Micro mayfly nymphs of the pseudo, trico, bwo variety are always in there. Further down, you can roll with a larger grouping of ever-popular jig nymphs like the hares ear, PT, hot spots, or the assassin.
Dry Flies
Hatches have been inconsistent, but at times there are lots of bugs on the water. Sometimes the fish get after them. Sometimes, they don’t seem to care. It can be maddening when you find lots of bugs and few to no rising fish. Hopefully, a rhythm will emerge soon. You might find a pod here and there on tricos, but heads have been a little sparse.
For now, the most consistent window has been late when the sun is off the water. (Caddis or evening duns or both.) If mayflies on are the water, the fish seem to prefer them. If caddis are the primary source, low riding or spent patterns will get the eats.
Streamers
I’ve heard one glowing streamer report recently. A big white Galloup’s boogie man was the theme. Lots of streamers can work and the formula for the day can change. Olive worked best for me on my last attempt at fishing the big fly.
Local Streams
Great reports from Belt, the Sun, Highwood, Otter, the Smith and Hound Creeks. Dry flies are getting eaten on all of them.
The Lower Missouri River
I’ve been addicted to catching carp, walleye, drum, channel catfish, goldeye and smallmouth bass of late. Grab a 7 or 8-weight with a floating line, some OX and a hand full of jawbreakers or jigged zirdles and get ready to rumble. If you get bit off by a pike, toss a big streamer with some wire or 40# FC.
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