Missouri River Fishing Report 5.31.2017

May seemed to fly by, carried along by lots of water.  As we roll into June, river levels have come down significantly and fly fishing prospects are good.  The current flow on the Missouri River below Holter Dam is 8,740 cfs. The water temp is at 54 degrees.  Fishing is fine.  In fact, I’ve heard from some guides that fishing has been stellar recently.

For most anglers, it’s a boat show.  Wading areas are limited, but that does not mean that you can’t wade at all.  There are still some areas that fish just fine on foot.  If you need help figuring these places out, just swing by the shop and we can show you some options.

Even if the flows spike, you can still use these highwater tactics to catch fish.

The primary technique for catching fish is Nymphing with plenty of leader between the indicator and the split shot.  In bright weather, 6-7’ is the norm.  After adding a couple flies, the whole set up is 9-10’ long from indicator to second fly.

In terms of flies, or nymphs, there are many that are working.  Scuds, sows, worms, slender mayflies, chubby caddis and even rubber legs and crayfish.  PMD nymphs are getting active, so that means #14-16 options such as the Crust Nymph or the Split Case can be good.  The Orange Radiation Baetis is also a favorite.

Need nymphs? Check out our selection online.

If you have trouble working the deep Nymphing set up, consider your fly line.  Choosing a heavier weight forward line like the Rio Grand can make a big difference.  You can also adjust your rig by upsizing your line weight.  Putting a 6wt line on a 5wt rod or a 7wt line on a 6wt rod makes loading that rod and carrying that long weighted leader much easier.  Be patient with your cast.  Lift slowly and gradually accelerate once the leader is at the surface.  It’s easy.  Don’t fight it.

Leaders and other accessories you need can be found online here.

While dry fly fishing action has been limited, there should be improving possibilities soon.  I know of a few caddis eaters being taken on top.  Some adult PMD’s and Gray Drakes have been spotted around Pelican Point.  We should see a few more heads soon, especially if the flows steady out a bit.  We can always hope and always be ready.

Today is going to be a hot one.  Make sure you’ve got your sun screen and/or sun shields.  Bring along lots of fluids.  Go find your water.  It’s summertime.