Missouri River Report 2.20.17
Lots of folks were out on the water this past week. Early reports were good, but then a funny thing happened. The fishing slowed down quite a bit. I’ve got a theory.
In the winter, the water is low, clear and largely weed free. The fish get used to hanging out in slow flows and slack waters where they are largely unmolested for weeks at a time. Suddenly, the weather changes. Wading anglers are abruptly standing in their living rooms. Boats are gliding over their heads again. They get a little uncomfortable. They begin to duck and cover.
I was out last Friday. Fishing on the swing was pretty steady with a grab every couple steps. Then in an hour's time, ten boats floated over the run I was swinging. One angler dropped anchor right in the middle of my casting zone and sat there for 10 minutes re-rigging, while I waited patiently for him to move along. Not surprisingly, the bite slowed quite a bit.
Folks out fishing last week had glowing reports. By Friday afternoon, the bite got a bit scratchy above Craig. Down in the Canyon and below, it was still excellent in places. Especially for anglers fishing unmolested waters.
Curious how the river is doing? Check out the current river flows here
Regardless of success rates, it was clear lots of anglers were ready to get out there and get some time on the water. Any day spent in Montana’s great outdoors is a special day and not to be taken for granted.
Small brightly colored midges are working well. Olive Zebra midges have had the edge over black lately. The basic Pink Ray Charles is never a bad choice. Zach Jones put his buddy on his first fly caught brown with a Firebead Soft Hackle Sowbug. Way to set the expectation bar, Zach.
A few fish have been taken on top with the esteemed Griffiths Gnat. The Midge hatches are starting to build. While you may not find fish rising steadily in one spot, you can catch them by simply fishing in the zone and waiting for them to find your fly.
It’s prime time for fishing the swing, especially under some clouds. The Predacious Fox, Black, Olive or Brown Balanced Leeches and Seal Buggers are top choices.
Need to stock up on flies? Check out our fly selection
Last week on a windy afternoon in Great Falls, Calvin Fuller and I decided it would be a great time to try out a Loop Q 8wt. Calvin was soon launching 80 footers off shoulder, when he got interrupted by a Carp. Not only do we like the rods, but they feel pretty good with a fish on too.
Some wintry weather is back in the forecast, but nothing like we had earlier in terms of cold. Hopefully we will see some precipitation. Our mountains on the east side desperately need some snow. As the temperatures cool, the fish will keep on eating. Less competition from other anglers will improve their mood. If you are planning an outing, stop in for flies, tips and all the accessories. You can check out our great new rods, reels and fly lines while you’re at it.