Missouri River Fishing Report 2.15.2017
Last Friday, you could feel the buzz starting. The tempo and the energy in the fly shop began to increase after a long winter’s nap. So far, the energy is carrying forth into this week. Suddenly fly cups are being filled again, fresh fly lines are being spooled, premium sunglasses are in demand and new fly rods are getting a second look. What has changed? It’s all about the mercury.
Looking for a fly rod? Check out the selection on our new North 40 Fly Shop.
While some anglers are fishing now, many are just beginning to feel the pull. Football is over and the longer days, sunny skies and warmer temps make folks think about spending time on the water again. Despite 18" or more of ice in places, one guy was in filling up on balanced leeches and nymphs for ice out. After two months of ice fishing, he wants the ice to go away, like now. This time last year there was no ice.
The river is opening back up fast.
A week ago when I came into work, it was below zero. Today, it was 50 degrees. A week ago, the fishing was confined to the water above Craig. Now, the river is flowing clean and ice is clearing from the banks all the way to Pelican Point and beyond.
Fishing is pretty good right now.
Here is a direct quote from a friend who was fishing last Saturday.
"Have the fish gods ever picked your lottery number? Well today, Chris’ number was chosen. I had, bar no other, the most incredible day of fishing on the Missouri River and I was worn out by 11. It was completely ridiculous. I lost track, but I think at one point I made ten casts and hooked ten fish. I caught Rainbows and Browns and even the biggest Whitefish I've ever seen. I'm not sure who to thank or what to do for an encore. I might just go to bed. My day is done."
While Chris clearly had an exceptional outing, it clearly illustrates the potential out there.
Curious how the river is doing? Read about current flows here.
Nymphing gets it done.
On the Nymphing side of things, nothing has changed. The usual suspects rule the day. If your scud and sow flies are rocking some pink, you’re going to be in the game. If your flies look like a worm or a midge or an egg, you’ve made a great choice.
Nymphing? Here's what you need to know.
The Mini Mo Czech, TFP Mo Zebra, TFP Tufted Zebra, Beadhead San Juan Worm, Firebead Ray Charles, Pink Crush and the Wire Worm are a good place to start. We’ve also got lots more flies, some brand new, that will get you into fish. Maybe not quite like Chris, but at least a few.
Trout Spey Weather
This is my favorite time of the year for trout Spey. It was 20-30 degrees warmer on the water the last couple days than on all previous outings this year. It felt pretty darn good. The fish were feeling it too. Some of the eats were surprisingly aggressive. Some of the fish took a little line and even jumped. What’s not to like?
Why a Spey Clave in Montana? Read this.
Many folks don’t groove with the fact that warmer weather usually means wind. Wind is not a big issue for Spey casting if anglers merely adjust their cast to the conditions. Up or downstream wind is easy to work with. Simply cast from the downwind shoulder. If the wind is behind the angler, aim high and cast like a hero. The most difficult wind is in your face. A strong Perry Poke can combat that problem, but why fight it. The river meanders. Just choose a run where you can work with the wind rather than against it.
Lots of flies can work on the swing. My favorite set up of late has been a floating scandi head or integrated line with a 12’ leader. The floating line and long leader makes it easy to adjust for varying depths and current speed. It also makes manipulation of the fly easy. If you are running a Skagit head, a 10’ intermediate tip is a great choice as are 7.5/2.5 and 5/5 Light Mo Tips.
Balanced Leeches have been our biggest seller all winter and continue to produce. Mini Montana Intruders and TFP Polar Minnows can provoke grabs when the sun is on the water.
If you want to get in the game for the first time or need to update your two hander, we’ve got the new Echo TR Trout 4113 and 3110 trout spey rods in stock. They are a perfect fit for the Mo.
Lately, I’ve been fishing a Loop Opti NXT 5110 and it’s been fantastic in the wind. Light, powerful, sensitive and fun to play fish on. I’ve been running 360 grains and loving it. If I’m not out bending it, you are welcome to grab it for a spin.
If you need any heads, tips or poly leaders to complete your set up, we’ve got everything you need to get your Snake Roll, your Double Spey, your Snap T and your Perry Poke on.
The weather is here.
The future looks mild. The fishing prospects are good. If you need some help taking advantage of it, we are here to help. If you don’t see me in the shop, you know where I’ll be.