Great Falls, Montana Fishing Report 11.22.18

Missouri River

It’s all about the weather.  When the wind and the temperature hold to a reasonable level, the fishing is pretty good.  The prospects for the coming week should be ideal for late fall angling.  Happy Holidays!

Swing Season

Water temperatures have fallen quickly this past week and unless you are right below the dam, you can expect morning water to be chilly.  If you want to get an early start, fish high and near the dam.  Water temperatures there will remain consistent, so the fish are more active at early light.  Further downstream, you will want to get a later start, or you can simply move downstream in the afternoon.

Grab a handful of leeches in a variety of colors and get your swing on.  This is a great time to be on the Missouri River with a two-handed rod.  Micro intruders, little Clouser minnows and baby sculpin patterns will also get you in the game of tugs.

Nymphs

We are moving into winter fare with scuds, sows, tiny mayflies, and midges.  Popular flies include; the tailwater sow, the Ray Charles, the firebead rays and the zebra midge.  Our shop favorites are the mini Mo Czech, the skurp, the tufted zebra and the Mo zebra.

Dry Flies

It’s midge season.  You might see a baetis or two, but henceforth, the midge is our primary top water hatch matcher until April. You will want to roll CDC soft hackle emergers, single adults, and cluster midges.  Dropping a tufted zebra 6-inch off a small dry is a great way to target rising fish who are often focused on emergers just under the surface.

Streamers

There are plenty of hungry fish out there and streamers are a great way to target them.  Size 8-10 buggers in black, olive, and brown are solid choices.  On the brighter side, sparkle minnows, polar minnows and skiddish smolt have been popular lately.

See past reports from the Great Falls region here, or click here to view all northwest regional reports.