Great Falls, Montana Fishing Report 06.28.18
Missouri River, Montana
I believe our high water “runoff” season has finally peaked and water should begin falling into fine fishing shape. Many locals and some tourists have been afraid of the Mighty Mo as it rolled along at higher flows. Guides from around the state unable to fish many of Montana’s other famous waters have been clogging the Mo with traffic. Now, they are spreading out again. From here on out, the Missouri River will resume normal operations. Get ready for July. It should be awesome. It’s go fishing time.
Nymphs
Some anglers are fishing deep. Others are fishing short and tight to the banks. Fish are also suspended in the frothy seams. As the water levels change, the fish keep moving. When you find the formula for the day, you can catch lots. If you are not catching fish, change your depth or the type of water you are fishing.
PMD nymphs, caddis pupa, weight flies, Czech nymphs, Tung Jigs and sow bugs are the standard fare.
Dry Flies
Fish have been on the rise late in the day. Some savvy shoreside anglers have been getting them working the edges with PMD cripples, spinners and spent caddis. It’s only going to get better as the flows drop another foot. In fact, it should get really good.
Streamers
Fish are still eating the big flies. Galloup’s Peanut Envy in yellow or olive has been a solid producer lately below the Dearborn. As the water clears, the Sparkle Minnows, Flash N’ Grabs and bugger variety will be worthy choices to try.
Local Streams
Conditions are improving and some waters will be in great shape as we head into the 4th of July window. Streams off the Belts should be good. On the Rockies side, it might be another week or so.
The Warmer Slower Waters
We’ve got the flies you need for pike, tiger musky, bass, carp, walleye, sauger, perch, goldeye, drum and channel cats. There are a bunch of multi-species fanatics around our shop. While Montana offers some of the best trout fishing in the country, fly fishing is not just for trout. If you are intrigued and want to step outside the trout box, stop in for a chat.
Click here to see past Great Falls reports, or here to view all northwest regional reports.