John Arnold

Switch it Up – Montana Spey Video

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Here’s the latest edit, featuring the crew that stays around Craig for the winter, fishing the Missouri River with two-handed or “spey” gear. The class at our last Spey Clinic got to see the world premier. Aren’t you jealous?

[/vc_column_text][us_separator text=”MONTANA SPEY VIDEO” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/113932956″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]The last time I filmed a lot of early winter two-handed fishing was when Sara and I shot “Down & Across“, 3 years ago I think? Seems like ages. It’s one of my most viewed videos at 27K views. It seems that you like watching some spey casting and fishing on the Missouri River.

We’ve definitely got a bigger crew doing it now, both in the shop and on the river in general. Many of the rigs I see around Craig in the winter months are not towing a boat, but do have a magnetic rod holder on the roof holding a variety of switch and spey rods. We like to see that. Anglers like Terry Armstrong from Great Falls are out there several days a week.

This video features everyones favorite “Spey Witch” Sara Roholt, along with Ben McNinch, guides Mark Raisler and Beth Hood, and new player Erich Bittman (TroutNV), who makes all of that cool laser engraved stuff at the shop. Pretty diverse group of two-handed anglers. Ben and Sara are Missouri River gurus, and do a bit of Steelhead fishing in the Columbia Basin. Mark is kind of a “trout-only” angler who loves to cast. Beth fishes here in the winter and you can typically find her on the Morice and Bulkley Rivers in the fall. Erich grew up in the Puget Sound and leans towards the Skagit side of things. He fishes all over the place, but moved to Craig full time a few years ago, and you will see him out swinging on the Mo (summer and winter). If you attend any of the Spey Claves in the PNW you will see him there as well.

Also a shout out to Simon Perkins and Orvis, who is a huge supporter of small fly fishing video production, including my own. Check out tons of fly fishing videos on THE TUG…

At any rate, the “Swing Season” has been great thus far, and we have a lot of nice weather in the forecast. Hopefully it will hold through the holidays so you can get out for a few days and enjoy the fishing. Int he meantime, enjoy some virtual fishing through Switch it Up – VIMEO LINK.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

12 Days of Christmas @ TFM!

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This thing gets better every year!

Our buddy Cameron over at the Fiberglass Manifesto is holding his annual 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS contest again. Cam has been doing this for several years, and it really is a big deal. Prizes aren’t crap or leftovers that manufacturers can’t get rid of. Typical prizes range from $500 to over $1000 dollars! Get some!

This years theme is made in the USA, and Cam has some great gear from 25 different manufacturers. The best part?

All you have to do is send an email. No pic’s, no forms to fill out. Just send an email each day…

Here’s the link to the post that explains everything;

http://thefiberglassmanifesto.blogspot.com/2014/12/12-days-of-christmas-made-in-usa.html[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8561″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana Spey Clinic

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CLINIC #1 IS IN THE BOOKS

An excellent turnout for our first two-handed Montana Spey clinic of the year. The weather was nice, and we had a little glitch with our google drive sign up list and overbooked it. That’s OK. The weather was great – the best we’ve had in over a year – and the crowd was enthusiastic. All 18 of them, and we had some from as far away as Denver at this clinic. Might be the new distance record.

I continue to tweak our presentation and subject matter. We’re starting to get into the pure Skagit stuff a bit more, at least for those who want to learn “sustained anchor” techniques, as well as try Skagit lines instead of our preferred Scandi rigs. Ninch is your man.

I was glad to see several anglers really taking advantage of the gear available to them. Switching lines, rods, and tips to see how they’re rod reacts differently. It’s often dramatic. You just got to try it. Several attendees brought their own rods, and I think at least one or two of them will be looking for a different line. It’s so important that you get the right line for your rod. Try it, try it, try it…. That’s why we have all of those lines and tips at the shop.

And oh yeah, you can try them anytime your in town. Just swing by.

The ECHO Glass Spey Rod got a good workout, and most – if not all – of those who tried it loved it. We will have several more for demo (and for sale) by the first of the year. This rods really shined for those new to the sport. And veterans just love the funky, slow powerful action.

Our next clinic is Jan. 10th, weather permitting. Sign up now at the shop.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8550″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”8552″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”8551″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]After the clinic, Dewey just couldn’t help getting out there and nabbing a few nice Missouri River trout![/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8553″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Simms Sale items

Some Simms Stuff on Sale

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Say that 3 times fast? We just want to let you know that some discontinued/redesigned Simms products are on sale at Headhunters. And not beanies. No, we got some waders and boots on sale. Screaming deals if you’re in need. Especially BIGFOOT guys who are looking for a deal on those 14, 15, 16 size boots that only Simms makes. We’ve also got just a few women’s Headwaters waders and boots in stock.

Also, nice shot of Sara Roholt working “the Glide” on the Clearwater a few weeks ago. In her Simms Women’s Headwaters waders and boots no less.

Check it. They will go fast.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][us_image image=”8283″ size=”full” link=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_grid columns=”4″ orderby=”alpha” order=”asc” post_type=”product” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” items_quantity=”12″ taxonomy_product_cat=”sale-2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana spey fishing

Sunday Spey

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Ninch stretching it out on the upper river. He didn’t get one on this cast. It was the next.

The entire Headhunters crew has been out swinging with two-hands. A lot.

Try some swinging. You’ll like it. You can wear gloves. If you don’t twitch your fly, you can drink beer while you’re fishing. You’re uncle’s a swinger, right?[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8198″ align=”center” size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Storm 1

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Fall no longer exists. We go from flip-flops to Muck Boots in a day. Yesterday Mark, Chad and clients got caught out in it. They new it was coming, but you never believe the temp is really going drop 40 degrees in an hour. North winds. Snow in your eyes. Push.

Iced up guides.

Max Matioli and I hit the river quickly yesterday afternoon. Temps around 20, dropping. Snow increased quickly as the afternoon wore on. The skies were absolutely loaded with waterfowl, and and it was obvious that every Swan in North Central was headed south. Our guides were icing up like it was 20 below. Super fast and super hard ice. Teeth and slobber were the only solution.

The trout were tailing all over the place. Whatever it is they root around for in the late fall. Scuds or Crawdads I’ve always assumed.

We stayed out long enough to hook some fish and get 1 or 2 to hand.

Storm 1 has arrived. Winter is here.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”7440″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”7439″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Echo Glass Spey

Echo Glass Spey Rod – First Look

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]With the resurgence of fiberglass fly rods, it was only a matter of time before someone brought archaic glass technology to the two-handed market. Leave it to ECHO to be the first with a production model (there are some blanks out there), and they’re bringing both switch and spey models to us this winter. I first saw these at the iCAST/FTD show in July, and the “wiggle-test” alone told me I must try them.

Here’s the product intro from Red at ECHO via Midcurrent:[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/106846577″][us_separator text=”GLASS TWO-HANDER ARRIVES” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]So, there they are. Now I just need to give one a try. The one thing I know about non-graphite construction, is that I will either love it or hate it. There’s a lot more room for error when a manufacturer decides to go down the glass road.

We had briefly “grass-cast” the rod at our shop a few weeks ago during a visit from ECHO rep Brandon Prince. Loaded with a 510 Scandi, you could actually huck it off the sod. But that was our only test, and I wanted to give it a real workout before our Swing Season starts on the Missouri. Miraculously, an ECHO 12’9″ #7 glass two-hander arrives days before a scheduled Steelhead trip in Eastern OR. The perfect place to try it out.

[/vc_column_text][us_separator text=”FIT & FINISH” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Fit & finish are very nice on this rod. The blank is a classic glass color I believe aficionados refer to as “honey”. Very cool and the olive wraps look great on it. Guides are typical two-handed chrome.

I really like the grip and seat however. The grip is a classic “cork-only” style that you rarely see anymore. No, it doesn’t have 15 colors of burled and rubberized cork spaced throughout it. Which is fine by me. There is quite a bit of filler in the grip, but grips I see on rods costing 3X as much have the same. And at $300 I’m not going to say a thing.

I really like the reel seat. It has a brushed/satin finish that reminds me of glass rods from the 60’s and 70’s. It also has a cork insert which I like. It also stayed tight while fishing, and you can put a tremendous amour of force on this rod, which often loosens reel seats and ferules (which also stayed true).

The rod comes in a nice natural colored cordura case with sock that’s a “rounded-triangular” shape.[/vc_column_text][us_separator text=”CASTING” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]I fished the ECHO glass 95% of my trip, lined up with a Airflo Compact Scandi 480gr head. The grain window is 480-590, and is designated correctly. While I will probably stick with the 480gr Scandi, I think I will recommend a 510gr for most casters in our shop. For Skagit systems, I will most likely use a short head at the top of the grain window.

Casting is effortless with this rod at short and medium distances. While obviously not the most powerful stick you’ll throw, the slow and smooth action definitely puts a smile on your face. And while slow, is not what I’d call “glacial”. It’s has some pop, and a ton of latent energy gets built up when you load the rod. You can really crank on this thing. Which is fun.

While the slow action makes you think Skagit, it throws a Scandi with power and accuracy, though you do need to nail the timing at longer distances. It doesn’t take long.

Speaking of longer distances, the ECHO glass easily casts the distances most anglers will find themselves fishing. I never felt that I didn’t have enough rod or distance, but I could get to “the end” of what the rod was capable of doing comfortably. I think using a 510gr line (or a longer head) would have added a few feet and some “punch” to the end of my  longer casts.

There are a few situations where fiberglass might hurt you. Giant rivers like the Thompson, and very windy rivers like the Snake and Deschuttes come to mind. But other than those unique places, I think this rod can be an everyday driver for most anglers. If I was packing for Smithers today, it would be the first rod in the car.

I didn’t use the ECHO glass for Skagit purposes, but I have no doubt that it launches a short head and a big tip. I will find out shortly here on the Missouri. Watch out Walleye.[/vc_column_text][us_separator text=”FISHING” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]The big concern with fiberglass (or bamboo) is the extra weight you’re carrying while holding your rod. A few ounces add up over the course of a week. The first thing I noticed when I picked it up, was that it was lighter than expected, and the butt diameter of the blank was much narrower than I expected. Good job ECHO.

But, it is heavier than some of the most modern graphite rods. The other rod I fished during the week was a similarly sized Sage METHOD 12’6″ #6, and I definitely could feel the difference. The weight does add up over several long days of fishing, but I don’t think I would call it a deal breaker. Smaller anglers or those with wrist/elbow/shoulder problems might find it an issue.

I found the rod light enough to balance with a Hatch 9+ no problem. My 7+ was a touch on the light side, but I would have used it without complaining. The rod does not feel like it needs an extra-heavy “spey” reel.

The slow action and extra weight do make mending a breeze, however. Long mends were effortless.[/vc_column_text][us_separator text=”CONCLUSION” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]The ECHO Glass two-hander is a great rod, and what I would call an unbelievable deal. A glass Spey rod for $300 could sell as a “gimmick” rod. Something you break out here and there for the challenge, comments and a few laughs. But this rod is not a gimmick. It’s a great fishing and casting tool. It really has few weak points, and for most anglers it may be all they need. The easy casting stroke will be less frustrating for newer two-handed casters as well. And for $300 you can easily afford to pick one up for a second (or 3,4,5) rod. More importably, those new to two-handed fishing can get a great rod without selling your roommates gear on ebay.

We will also be carrying the 12’6″ #6, and will have a switch or two to play around with.

All for now, but expect to hear and read more about the ECHO Glass Spey and Switch rods from us this winter.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Dancing Bears fishing reel

Abel “Dancing Bears” Reel Available now!

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Mark is Impressed!

Headhunters just received a few of the new Abel Grateful Dead “Dancing Bears” Special Edition fly reels. They will go quickly, as only 250 have been made… and that’s it! Don’t believe us? Ask the thousands of people who wish they would have bought last years “Steal Your Face” reel. We currently have the 5N and 7/8N in stock. We should be receiving a 6N shortly.

These collectors/stoner edition reels are hand painted and absolutely a one-of-a-kind. If you’re too young to be able to claim 400 Dead shows on your resume’, you can show your love for the Dead in this manner. These will not last long, and if you don’t beat it up will only increase in value.

And for you Deadheads, here’s some historical footage form 1972. WARNING: If you don’t like to watch naked hippies dancing about, then don’t watch this video![/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXLP7SDksao”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”7108″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”7114″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Best Montana streamer fishing

It’s nice. A little Too Nice.

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]A beautiful fall day yesterday in what was – I assume – record high temperatures. Nearly 80 degrees in North Central, and not a breath of wind. Too sunny for a big hatch, and the water is still too warm for Baetis. If you’re hunting for BWO’s on the Missouri River, think November. You’ll have the place to yourself. Until then, Pseudos and small caddis are the fare.

Mark, myself and Zak Dalton of Sage/RIO spent the day tossing streamers (and a few dries) on the Missouri. A few slower spells, but all in all a great day with plenty of fish in the net. A few good ones.

Our key to streamers yesterday? Slow – like in a coma – retrieves. We don’t like short strikes. The best flies were the usual Skiidish/Sparkle/Kreelex, etc. stuff.

Today we’re finally getting some clouds/rain. In fact I’m walking out the door right now. After that it’ll be back to that “too nice” weather pattern for another week. Today’s the day…[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”7119″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”7120″ size=”full” link=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Blackfoot River fly fishing

Blackfoot River Fly Fishing – Final Countdown

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Mark and I continue to sneak over to the Blackfoot River if we can both find a day off together. Fishing has been good, and only seems to be getting better. Typical for this time of year. Things are cooling down, fall hatches are intensifying and the fish know that it’s time to eat. In a month, their metabolism will slow to a crawl as the water temperatures drop into the 30’s.

Nighttime lows are a bit chilly at these higher elevations, so there is no need to be on the water early. The best fishing occurs from 11am on. By 3 in the afternoon, the water temps have hit their peak and you will see a mixed bag of bugs. The fish will also be at their most active then.

You’ll encounter a variety of mayflies, including Trico’s, Mahogany Duns, Hecuba’s and Baetis. October Caddis were hatching the other day as well. One of our favorites. We definitely found fish that were keyed on a specific bug. And by “keyed on” I mean that fish that were eating Trico’s were not going to eat our #12 Purple Haze no matter how many times we threw it at them. Amazing how an 8 inch Cutthroat can humble you.

Hopper patterns were working very well later in the day, and produced much larger average size fish. Purple More-or less was all we tried and all we needed.

We didn’t throw any streamers, as we have become old & cranky dry fly snobs. Or it can be described as “too lazy to change flies and rigs”. Conditions were perfect, however, with a socked in sky and muggy, warm temps. We absolutely saw a few large, green trout (char?) lying around in some tailouts. I have a feeling the streamer fishing would have been pretty good.

Very few anglers around, as all of the Missoula area streams are fishing very well right now. Most anglers are probably sticking closer to town on the Clark Fork and Bitteroot.

Fishing won’t last much longer on the Blackfoot. Soon, cold temperatures will make the effort to float not worth it for a few hours of decent afternoon fishing. Wade fishing in the late afternoon will continue to be worthwhile, however. If you want to float one of the prettiest rivers in Montana, the time is now.

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Missouri River Pseudos and Baetis

Pseudos… call them what you will.

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Mark and I hit the river at Pelican the other afternoon and both Pseudocleon (Pseudo’s) and Caddis were present in a big way. Fish were up all over the river eating both bugs. Mid-September is when both of these hatches start to ramp up, and the lower river is where things start. Cooler water down there. That’s the key.

Pseudo’s are often referred to as “Tiny Blue Winged Olives”, and apparently have been reclassified as Iswaeon Anoka. Got to keep up on my entomology!

Here’s a link to what Troutnut has to say about the Pseudocleon.

While these bugs may be part of the Blue Winged Olive clan, to the angler they are a completely different hatch. Yes they’re smaller. And that’s a pain as eyesight diminishes over time. They also emerge from the nymph sub-surface. Total pain in the ass. But the real difference lies in when and where they hatch.

Unlike Blue-winged Olives, Pseudo’s (or Anoka’s… I’m going to start calling them that) love the sun. They typically hatch from late morning through the afternoon on sunny (and cloudy) days. Unlike BWO’s, you don’t need a nasty cold front and rain to produce a big hatch. They also tend to hatch “riverwide” meaning in all types and speeds of water. Our true BWO hatches are often localized. You’ll see them above and below riffles, then you may float a mile without seeing any. Not true with the Anoka. They’re everywhere.

Our trout tend to key on the sub-surface emergers, especially in sunny conditions. Oh, it looks like they’re feeding on top to most anglers. And sometimes they are. But you’ll see lots of fins, and this means the fish are feeding just sub-surface. This can make matching the hatch extremely difficult. I love to fly fish, but throwing #24 emergers at roaming packs of risers in the middle of the river is not my favorite thing to do. I’d rather mow the lawn.

So how do we approach the Anoka hatch? Most anglers on the Mo’ will use traditional BWO cripples and duns down to about #20. This isn’t really the correct size (#22-24 is about right), but you can usually get fish to respond, especially if there is any cloud cover. Keep in mind that there are usually a few BWO’s present during even our earliest September Anoka hatches. Fish often pick them out of the masses, as they do Caddis.

The most important factor Anoka’s play, is that they get the fish up and rising. Yes they are difficult to match and fish, but – on the Missouri – it’s always better to have the fish up than not. If I know where they are, and that they are feeding on top, half the battle is already won. Now I just need to find a fly that I can see, and they will eat. For Mark and I the other night, that fly was a #12 Stimulator. Go figure.

So, the Pseudo’s – or Anoka’s – are here. Like clockwork. The hatches are big and they last for hours. Get out there and figure out a fly that works for you. Along with what appears to be an excellent fall caddis hatch, we’re on the front end of 6-8 weeks of fantastic dry fly fishing.

Here’s a few dry flies that I’ve had good success using during this hatch over the years. These are all bigger than the real bug, but usually get enough positive responses that I’m content:

  • Nymens DOA Cripple – BWO #20
  • Quigley’s Half Dun – BWO #18 – 20
  • Harrop’s D&D Cripple – BWO #18
  • Light Orange Parachute #20 (hard to find)
  • No Hackle – BWO #20 (hard to find, harder to tie!)
  • Light Olive Parachute #20

Don’t be afraid to a throw caddis at those fish, especially if you see a violent rise here or there.

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Montana Fly Fishing Sale

Labor Day Sale & BBQ!

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As usual. We’re having a Labor Day Sale, BBQ and general Mo-down this coming weekend 8-30 thru 9-1. This is a great chance to pick up some awesome fly fishing gear at great prices. We will be outside under the tent, having a great time and helping you score some deals. A few of the things you’ll be able to snag:

  • All flies will be 50% off on Sunday ONLY! Yes, everything. Ninch’s orders.

  • BBQ as well on Sunday afternoon, so come by and at least get a free dog, Dog.

  • Saturday – Monday you will find 30% off all sun shirts (tech-T’s), 40% off logo hats, and if you spend $100 you’ll get a free shuttle coupon good for any Missouri River shuttle anytime!

Also, we will have some good to great discounts on fly lines, packs and bags, summer clothing and demo rods. Why? Why not?

Open 7am – 9pm. Oh boy is this great!

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Derek DeYoung Redfsih

DeYoung – Redfish Confetti

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Here’s a neat video from our bud and famous Montana artist Derek DeYoung. You get to watch the process of a DeYoung painting in creation, and Derek shares a little story about Redfish, one of his – and our – favorite species to chase. Check it out, and make sure and go to Derek’s website where you can order all sorts of cool fly-fishy art and paraphernalia. You can also get some DeYoung gear at Headhunters,[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/103727537″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River Photos by Jon Covich

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]We had a visit from well known angler, photographer and tackle rep Jon Covich last week. Jon was taking his boys on a fly fishing trip through Montana before they had to go back to school. I asked these boys if they were excited to go back to school, and they both just dropped there heads and shrugged. Adair could learn something from these two. She likes school.

You’ve seen Jon’s photo’s on the pages of just about every fly fishing magazine over the years. You also may know him as a member of the Flywater Travel team. To see more of his photo’s go to www.joncovich.com, and here’s the direct link to his blog post about his trip.

Here’s a few of his great shots of the Missouri River.

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“Hoot Owl” Restrictions on Dearborn, Sun and Smith

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With all the water Montana has received this season, stream closures due to warm and low flows are not on most people’s mind. We do have a few however, and as they are all in our area, you should be made aware. Read the descriptions closely for the exact stretches and times that are closed.

Dearborn River

Hoot Owl Restriction 
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
From Highway 434 Bridge downstream 41 miles to the confluence with the Missouri River north of Craig (8/8/2014)
View Water Body Report

Smith River

Hoot Owl Restriction 
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Smith River from Eden Bridge to the confluence of North and South Forks of the Smith River.(8/8/2014)
View Water Body Report

Sun River

Hoot Owl Restriction 
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Sun River from mouth of Muddy Creek to Highway 287. (8/8/2014)
View Water Body Report

None of these will drastically affect anyones fly fishing right now, though there are a few anglers who might hit some of these on foot right now. Fortunately, there are plenty of other wade fishing opportunities in the area if you like to get away from the crowds on the big rivers. The upper creeks on the Blackfoot River are a good place to start. Streams in the Little Belt range are another good place to look.

LINK to Montana FWP closure list

 

Birthday Girl on the Elk River BC.

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Today is Julie’s Birthday. You can’t wish her well face to face, because she is floating down the Elk River in BC (in the front of the boat, of course), sticking big Cutties on dries. Single dries.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6143″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Julie making the right cast (above) and setting the hook into another big one (below).[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6144″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Julie has been on fire this week, not only catching lots of fish, but lots of big fish. Here she is with our good buddy and longtime Elk River guide Darcy Richardson. They say these fish have shoulders. I would agree. At the top, guide Sebastien Stewart is showing off another big shouldered Cutt that Julie caught.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6146″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]The Elk is a fabulous fishery, but the scenery is a big part of a fishing trip here. It’s incredible. Plenty of splashy waves to run, here with Darcy on the sticks. Also, it looks like it’s been a while since they’ve been in this spot, but they been in this spot. Julie is fine with the fact that these bear tracks are a little old.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6149″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”6148″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”6153″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Our trip to Fernie, BC was great from start to finish. Great food as well, including some outstanding Sushi, Indian Food and great unique Mexican street food. Special thanks to Paul, Darcy and Sebastien at the Elk River Guiding Co. who made our trip memorable. These guys get down to the Missouri a bit as well, and you may run into them around the shop.

Speaking of the shop, thanks for all you do to make Headhunters run smooth, Julie.

Happy Birthday![/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6155″ size=”full” link=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Employee Appreciation! – Closed this Friday Night

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Headhunters will be closing at 5 PM this Friday August 8th, instead of our usual 9-10 PM. The entire staff is getting together for our annual Employee Appreciation Day! For those rolling into Craig after work, you’ll have to find another shuttle option. Fishing is way better in the morning anyhow. We will see you bright and early at 6 AM on Saturday morning.

Blackfoot River Cutthroat

Freestone Reprieve

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Sara and I hit the Blackfoot the other day, along with my 9 year old daughter Adair. Rumors that some Spruce Moths were hatching had us up early and on the water, despite the fact that we’ve been working very long hours and fishing hard early and late here on the Missouri River.

The drive to the Blackfoot is just over an hour for us. Not bad, but the “early-on” culture at Headhunters required that I roust a 9 year old out of bed at 5am and hit the road. No easy task, as I had to ready the raft, gather the proper tackle, get gas and lunch… Thankfully, I didn’t have to roust the 29 year old out of bed. She was waiting for us with coffee at the Stray Bullet Cafe’ in Ovando.

Fishing the Blackfoot is an entirely different experience from our home waters on the Missouri River. Scenery, shade and crystal clear waters trump big fish and technical presentations. And there’s Cutthroat. Both Sara and I learned to fly fish chasing Westslope Cutty’s in Idaho (my spoiled daughter learned to flyfish on the Mo’). We both love them, and they represent the wildness of the Northern Rockies.

The fishing experience isn’t necessarily “trophy”, but the river experience is. There’s a very mountainous and remote feeling to much of the Blackfoot, at least when compared to most famous Montana trout streams. Cutthroat are the main quarry, but you’ll also encounter Brown, Rainbow and Bull Trout.

At one point, Sara spotted two big Cutts rising delicately in some flat water near the bank. By “big”, I mean these were 14, maybe 16 inch fish. Sara was pretty excited – I could tell she wanted to fish for them –  but let Adair work them with a dry.

Adair is used to the quick takes of the Missouri, and she pulled the fly away from both fish before they got there. You know how slow those Cutts rise. She managed to get several more looks from the fish, but they wouldn’t be fooled again.

It was a pretty intense session, reminiscent of working some big rising fish on the Missouri. As we moved on, Sara continued to work the water hard, hitting every bucket, seam and riffle. She picked up several nice Cutts before we pulled over on some risers.

[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5957″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Adair leans into a native 17 inch Cutthroat Trout she caught on a Spruce Moth pattern.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Adair got another chance and nailed a very nice fish in the 17 inch range. These Blackfoot Cutts are very healthy right now. Heavy and strong, it’s a chore to pull them out of the slots that run through the bedrock bottom.

The fishing and hatch began to taper off late in the afternoon, though we still caught some smaller fish and Sara nailed a nice Brown on an Ant pattern. The fishing slowed, but the scenery and speedy riffles made the float out enjoyable.

While big western fisheries like the Missouri, Henry’s Fork, Platte and Bighorn garner so much attention, pure freestones like the Blackfoot are often given second class status. They shouldn’t. While Sara and I have had much better fishing recently – in terms of numbers and size – back on the Mo’, we both enjoyed a day off on the Blackfoot even more.

There’s something to be said for not having a specific game plan for each fish. Just floating down the river, flicking a dry out over the water. Kind of like it’s supposed to be.

[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5958″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River trico fishing video

Dead Flies Don’t Swim – Video

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/101744402″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Dead Flies Don’t Swim is a short video shot last week in our backyard. Mark and I love the Trico hatch, and this season it’s been better than it has in years. We thought we’d go out and gather a few clips with the help of shop guys Braden Lewis and John Ewald. Mark shares some of his thoughts on this famous Missouri River hatch. Video or not, it’s nice to get out early in the morning with friends.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River Reach Cast

Can an animated GIF teach you to Reach Cast?

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Our own Braden Lewis executing a proper reach cast. If you watch it enough times, will it embed itself into your brain?[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGhyZWYlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRmltZ2ZsaXAuY29tJTJGZ2lmJTJGYWxzc2MlMjIlM0UlM0NpbWclMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRmkuaW1nZmxpcC5jb20lMkZhbHNzYy5naWYlMjIlMkYlM0UlM0MlMkZhJTNF[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Monday Missouri River Macro

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Here’s your Monday Morning Macro of yesterdays Missouri River nymph survey by in-house biologist Braden Lewis. Pretty cool shots, and another weekly change in what’s on the menu for Missouri River trout. Kind of like those “visual” menu’s at Denny’s. If you swim for a living.

What do we see this week? Lots of damsel nymphs, not as many scuds, but still many PMD nymphs. The variety of mayfly nymphs is increasing, with some Trico and Pseudo nymphs, as well as others that Braden will have to get out his ID book to work on.

A big Crawdad made the scene. He appears to be molting. Lots of sucker fry, an often overlooked but very important food source. The Sucker fry were incredibly fragile, beginning to croak a few minutes after we put them in the tank. 1 juvenile sculpin made the scene as well.

The bad news? 1 caddis larva. One. Can you find it?

Make sure and CLICK ON THE IMAGES to enlarge in a lightbox.

Fly Tiers, take a good look at that Sucker fry.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5858,5859,5860,5861,5862,5864,5865,5866,5867,5868,5869,5870″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana carp fly fishing

Carp Master Max

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Another weekend gone, and another set of photo’s from father/son Ken and Max Rubino in my inbox. This Great Falls duo puts in a ton of days on the Missouri River. It’s a rare weekend that they aren’t in the shop arranging a shuttle.

I don’t hear Ken talk much about Carp, but Max won’t leave them alone. I suspect that he takes a peek in every slough they float by. His favorite Carp fly? I ain’t telling, but if you look closely, and are familiar with the Headhunters fly selection, you can figure it out. Hint: It’s not some drab, small bead-head.

This is a magnum Carp for our section of the river. Max actually looks like he might be straining a little hefting it for the camera. Ken and Max also did a little evening fishing for trout, but I can’t show the pictures and give away the fly…

One tip Max. In the picture with that Carp on the tape, it looks like you have a cold beer in that koozy. I’m not sure, but I think that it’s against the law to drink beer while Carp fishing in Montana until you’re 18?

Nice pic’s team Rubino. Keep ’em coming. As for the rest of you, get out and do a little Carp fishing.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5784″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana mayfly hatches

PMD’s Up Close

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Local “shop kid” Adair has a new hobby. Quickly freezing mayflies is the latest in 9 year old entertainment around here. Never tried it myself, but I have quickly discovered that frozen Mayflies are much easier to photograph than “hot” bugs. Here’s a couple of detailed shots of our favorite Missouri River Mayfly for those who have never looked close, or those who can’t because the eyesight ain’t so good no more.

To learn more than you need to know about Ephemerella Infrequens, here it is at Troutnut.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5750″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

New Flies for the Missouri River

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Once upon a time, Mark and I ordered all the flies for Headhunters. It’s a grueling task, especially when it comes to finding and having faith in new flies that we’ve never tried. These days, the Ninch does all the fly ordering (which I’m thankful for). Ben does an excellent job of finding new productive patterns, using his instincts and listening to the “word on the creek”.

While Ben takes on an extreme load for Mark and I, it means were not in tune with what we have in the bins. Nearly every day I walk by our massive fly selection and notice something I’ve never seen before. Today I picked out a few flies that – were I still guiding every day – I would definitely be trying right now on the Missouri. They have all of the elements I like in mid-summer patterns. While they are not all necessarily new patterns, they’re new to Headhunters and new to me.

CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO OPEN IN A LIGHT BOX[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5733,5734,5735,5736,5737,5738,5739,5740,5741,5742,5743,5744″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Blackfoot River Fishing Report 7.8.14

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We’re finally starting to get over to the Blackfoot River on a regular basis. Our favorite freestone has been fishing for a while with deep, heavy rigs, but we’ve been waiting for the water to clear and the surface action to pick up. Also, we’ve been way busy fishing the Missouri River, which has been excellent. A couple of our guides have been over to the Blackfoot in the last week, and reported good fishing and Salmonflies. Guide JP Basile and I decided to head over on a rare day off to see for ourselves.

Blackfoot River fly fishing

The Blackfoot is on the drop and was flowing 2600 cfs (at Bonner) while were on it. Though the upper main stem is running low and dirty, the North Fork is high and clear so visibility below the confluence is not an issue. Water temperatures are in the high 50’s. Comfortable for both fish and fishermen. We wore shorts.

The big stoneflies were definitely hatching. The fish have seen some pretty intense angling pressure over the last week and were a tad bit suspect of our offerings. Refusals and whimsy takes were not uncommon. We caught fish on a wide variety of dry flies from #12-#4. We did not use a dropper at all, though we did try some emerger style trailers. No doubt we would have hooked many more fish with a dropper. As it was we had some pretty decent fishing, including a few nice ones like JP is showing you here. The big Cutt-bow above was a particularly strong fish.

As the Blackfoot continues to drop, you can expect smaller insect to come into play. Yellow Sallies, PMD’s, Green Drakes, Caddis and others will have the fish looking up, especially in softer thigh-deep riffles.In prime Salmonfly water you will continue to see the big bugs for awhile.

Nymphing is good, though we prefer to stay on top. It takes a bit of filtering to get past all of the aggressive smaller Cutts, but worth it when one of the big ones inhales your offering. As stated, I think you can use a wide variety of patterns and sizes on the Blackfoot River right now. I would definitely be trying some Green Drake patterns as well as small to medium size Chubby’s, etc.

Blackfoot River montana cutthroat

We always get our shuttles from Leroy and Sue at Ovando River Shuttle – 406-793-3717 or 406-210-4164. Give them a call.

Blackfoot River Shuttle Service

Monday Morning Missouri Macro

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Braden and I set up the Macro Tank the other day to see what exactly is squirming around in the Missouri River. Lot’s of PMD nymphs, and relatively few Yellow Sallies like last week. I do see many stages of PMD nymphs as well. Looks to me like a more olive nymph patterns than the more mature amber nymphs with dark wing cases we gathered last week. Also, lots of scuds and the Damsel nymphs are showing up.

If you want to know exactly what we have here, you’ll have to talk to Braden face to face. Stop by the shop. He’s hesitant to identify things quickly. He does his homework, and does it right.

Do you need to know what they’re called, or just what they look like?

We’re still getting our photo set-up dialed in. Expect the images to get better soon.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5695,5696,5692,5691,5693,5690,5689,5688″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Slow Motion 4th of July – Video

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Here’s a short I dod a year ago today. I was playing around with the 240fps WVGA setting on the GoPro Hero 3. Pretty cool super slo-mo. Enjoy your Holiday weekend, and please be safer than Team Headhunters was in 2013! After watching this we decided to use cakes instead of mortar tubes…[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/99947567″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Richardson Chest Fly Box

New Breed Chicks. Richardson Edition.

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Renee Faltings shows off her sick PMD inventory. Renee is from the Ketchum/Hailey, ID area, and all the cool kids there rock a Richardson Chest Box. They always have. Many moons ago I was a guide on Silver Creek and had one myself. I did not, however, paint my toenails blue. It was the 80’s, and I painted them teal or purple.

Interested in one? It takes quite a while to get your build from Richardson, or you could call Renee’s buddies at Silver Creek Outfitters and see if they have any in stock. They sometimes do.

Big Dries.

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]The other day I was picking a few big “foamies” out of the bin for a day on the water. A customer leaned over my shoulder and asked “what the hell I was going to use those for?”. “The Missouri”, I responded. He gave me that “you are a liar look” all fly shop owners have received at one time or another (whether they are telling the truth or not). I wasn’t lying.

Many visitors to the Missouri River during mid-summer are in search of technical “match-the-hatch” fly fishing. And we are too. We love it.

So why would I be picking out some big foam stonefly patterns if I like matching the hatch? Because, I like matching the hatch…

While technical ‘purist” think of PMD, Baetis and Trico hatches when they envision themselves standing in the Missouri, the fact is that we do have a few other bugs that dictate what the trout are looking for. Just a few.

Everyone knows that ant patterns – like Missouri River guide Dave Bloom’s Ant – are a staple for dry fly fishing. I’ve often said that if there was a “One Fly, Dry Fly” contest on the Mo’, I’d choose this pattern. And there’s a reason. Get out and walk the willow lines banks and scabby flats and you’ll see ants everywhere. Ants on bushes. Flying ants. Ant hills. They’re everywhere.

While a #14 ant isn’t exactly a “foamie”, many latin spouting Eastern anglers scoff at the notion of throwing an ant pattern. To them it’s the same as throwing a Royal Wulff or stimulator. But in reality, an angler on the Missouri is most definitely matching the hatch (albeit terrestrial) when tying on an ant pattern.

And those big Foamies? Well, we do have a few Golden Stones and Salmonflies on the Missouri River. A few. We also have plenty of hoppers and Yellow Sallies. If you look around, you will see the big stoneflies and the shucks they leave behind on stream side rocks. And while you won’t see many flying or on the water, they are here. It’s almost like they hatch at night.

And because they are there, our trout eat them. The big ones are always on the lookout for a large winged meal with rubber legs. While guiding “Margarita” Ron Bartek last week, we managed a few fish each day on the big flies. Only a handful of fish, but they all looked like this…[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5619″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]These bugs are not for throwing into pods below Wolf Creek. They’re best suited towards searching the banks or fast flats when little else is going on. You absolutely need some experience to figure out the right kind of water, but it does work. Sometimes it works great.

Rev. Ninch from the Church of Flyentology picked out a few of his favorites for you to see. While He probably won’t tell you when or where, he’ll show you the bug. Will I tell you? Nope. Somethings you have to figure out without the help of Google. But we’re giving you a start.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5638,5639,5640,5641,5642,5643,5644,5645″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River PMD Patterns

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Ninch and I were going through the fly bins the other day and pointing out a few of our favorite PMD patterns for the Missouri River. Right now. Cripples and spinners, mostly. There are others. Here are some macro shots of a few of them.

click on the images to bring them up in a lightbox.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5609,5610,5611,5612,5613,5614,5615″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Beaver Bash 2014 – Beaver Island Carp

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]I’m sitting in the Traverse City, MI airport with Alex Landeen (above), waiting for our respective flights home. Alex to Tuscon, myself to Great Falls. We’ve both got our laptops out and are reviewing the images and video we captured on our first trip to Beaver Island. The typical verbal recap is going on as well. We both agree it’s an incredible place. Incredible.

I feel a little hungover, but I’m not. It’s more of a “cumulative” hangover from a week of fishing, dining and drinking with a great crew.

This trip was put together by Cameron Mortenson (TFM) and Kevin Morlock (Indigo Guide Service), with the idea of bringing a variety of blogger/media types to the hallowed Carp fishing grounds at Beaver Island. I felt fortunate to be invited with the likes of Cameron, photographer Alex Landeen, multi-media producer Matt Smythe, and carp aficionado Dan Frasier of Carp Pro.

[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5543″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Kevin Morlock (left) and Cameron Mortenson (right) heading out onto the flats on a rare calm morning.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]

The Island

Kevin Morlock runs a pro-operation along with guides Steve Martinez and Austin Adduci. Gear, flies, knowledge and – most importantly – company were all top shelf. Not only did they show us the fishing, they spent the evenings showing us around Beaver Island’s eating and drinking establishments. Definitely putting in long days, but as they put it, “Island Life” is a big part of the Beaver Island experience. By the end of the week, you feel like your part of the community.

We also had the chance to eat dinner (it was great everywhere) with Steve West from the Beaver Island Chamber of Commerce, who shared his thoughts on what makes Beaver Island so special. He pointed out that along with the great hunting (turkey’s, anyone?)and fishing, BI is a great family destination. Our guides agreed, and all have their families out for a week of island life during the 4th of July week.

Cameron and Kevin arranged lodging at the Fisherman’s House, a chill cottage right across from the harbor on the main drag. We walked everywhere, and because crime is non-existent in this paradise, left our gear out on the front porch. I think I was buzzed enough that I left my camera gear out there as well a time or two.

Instead of taking the ferry, we flew out on Island Airways, and the crew there was friendly and accommodating. I hear the 2.5 hour ferry ride is a blast as well, especially if you bring a few “boat drinks”.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5449″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]

The Fishing

It’s really hard to describe the fishing at Beaver Island. I had read about it, and the idyllic descriptions of “flats that make you think you’re in the Carribean” seemed overstated. They’re not. We had some rough weather during the week, but when the sun popped out, it did not seem like the Great Lakes. The flats are smooth and blue, and the water is as clear as any I’ve ever fished.

The Carp here are big, and they can be aggressive. They feed on small invasive fish called Goby’s, which remind me of the many small “bullheads” I caught growing up on the Puget Sound. So this isn’t nymph or slow leech Carp fishing. The flies are big. Bigger and heavier than most Permit flies. The fish hunt and chase. Bring your 9 weight.

We fished on foot and from the boat. Both were productive. I usually prefer fishing from the boat with some eyes up on the platform, but the fish are so easy to spot and the flats so wadeable that being on foot would be my choice. Looking for Carp in rough water on downwind beaches was a blast.

The fishing here is going to appeal to the sight-fishing and saltwater crowd. If you’re a “body-count” fisherman, it may be a little tougher than you want. Casts need to be long and accurate. Not easy with the heavy flies and long leaders we often threw at deep tailing fish. Body-count anglers would love the Smallmouth fishing that takes place a little later in the year, however.

While the fish and the fishing are great, all three of our guides acknowledged that the island and the community were a big part of what makes the Beaver Island experience so special. Agreed.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/98947199″][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5446,5448,5452,5551,5552,5553,5554,5555″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]

Would I go Back?

Absolutely. Especially with a great crew like we had on this trip. I was hesitant to participate in a trip with a group of anglers unknown to me, but Cameron nailed it. Combined with an excellent bunch of guides, it was perfect despite some nasty weather that chilled the water and our fishing.

And don’t forget that this is coming from a guy who has been know to dis’ Carp fishing. But this is so cool. I’m changing my mind, at least at this location.

I could see doing Beaver Island with my hardcore Keys buddies, or with my wife and daughter.

MORE

Check out Alex Landeen’s great photo’s and writing about our trip to Beaver Island as well.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Beaver Island Carp Fishing

Beaver Island Carp

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So I get invited to go on this Carp fishing trip by me friend Cameron Mortenson of the Fiberglass Manifesto. It’s to a place called Beaver Island, which sits in the middle of Lake Michigan. I’ve heard of it, and to Carp fly fishing fanatics it’s legendary. Kinda like the “Seychelles of Carp Fishing”.

Several months ago I accepted the invite. Now I’m there. Or here?

Guide Steve Martinez pushes Cameron Mortenson across a Great Lakes flat.
Guide Steve Martinez pushes Cameron Mortenson across a Great Lakes flat.

Also along on the trip are Dan Frasier (Carp Pro), Alex Landeen, Matt Smythe (fishing poet), and guides Kevin, Steve and Austin from Indigo Guide Service.

So far, an excellent crew in a great location. Incredible fishery. I’ll do a longer post when I return, so for now, a few images will have to do.

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Dan Frasier from Carp Pro.
Photographer Alex Landeen enjoying an apres'-fishing beverage.
Photographer Alex Landeen enjoying an après’-fishing beverage.

Missouri River Fly Fishing Map

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We’ve done a little tweaking to our popular Missouri River Montana Fly Fishing Map recently. Cleaned it up a little, and made some adjustments that reflect changes to access over the last few years. The new copies will be arriving at Headhunters soon, and we will no longer be printing them on the back of our brochure. Who needs a brochure in this digital age? We will have un-folded maps on paper you can scratch notes on. Secret fishing spots, where you his the Redbreast on your last trip, etc.

You can also find the map in a PNG format on the Missouri River Map page on this website. If you want to print your own, you can also download a printable PDF version here: Headhunters 2014 Missouri River Map.

Thanks to the crew at Media Works in Bozeman![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River Fly Shop

GigaPan Technology

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Our good buddy Andy Watson at Bull Stock Media took this cool GigaPan image of our shop after work last week. Very cool stuff. You can zoom way in and out, pan around and even read the leader packs on the back wall. This image is comprised of about 90 full size images stitched together. Impressive robotic technology from Andy and GigaPan. We’ll leave it on our Flyshop Page, but here it is on the blog for you to waste another hour at work. Those TPS reports will just have to wait, Lumberg!

Best to click the “fullscreen” icon on the bottom left, and play with it full size.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_raw_html]JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyaHR0cCUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy5naWdhcGFuLmNvbSUyRmdpZ2FwYW5zJTJGMTU2MTM0JTJGb3B0aW9ucyUyRm5vc25hcHNob3RzJTJDaGlkZXRpdGxlJTJDZnVsbHNjcmVlbiUyRmlmcmFtZSUyRmZsYXNoLmh0bWwlM0ZoZWlnaHQlM0QyNTAlMjIlMjBmcmFtZWJvcmRlciUzRCUyMjAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIyNzUlMjIlMjBzY3JvbGxpbmclM0QlMjJubyUyMiUyMHdpZHRoJTNEJTIyMTAwJTI1JTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGaWZyYW1lJTNF[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]If you are a Pro Bull Riding, rodeo or photography fan, check out the Bull Stock Media website. Full of great images of bull-riding.

Andy also takes some great fishing images. Here’s a great shot of Andy with a nice Brown, and one of my favorites he took on the Missouri with his wife Jacey and Livingston guide Eric Adams.

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Missouri River Walleye fly fishing

Save a Trout, Kill a Walleye

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]You’ve seen a lot of Walleye pic’s from us this spring. Most of them dead. Which is how they should be. If I were a religious zealot I would say that God put Walleye on Earth to make fish tacos with. I like fish taco’s.

I think Walleye are great fish. They are stealthy creatures, and you need to use all of your fish-problem-solving-skills to catch them. Especially on the fly. But also with bait.

Do they fight? Not really. Are they big? They can reach trophy size on the Missouri River, especially below Holter and Hauser Dams. Do they eat well? Nothing that swims in freshwater is better for the fork. Or the Tortilla.

If you want to go catch a few, there are several ways to get them. Flies, lures, dead minnows and live leeches all work to different degrees. The most popular lure is a small countdown Rapala. A Rainbow Trout pattern works best. That concerns me.

Walleye are voracious predators. As much as I like fishing for them (as an alternative and change of pace), and as much as I like to eat them, I don’t like them. They eat trout, and lots of them.

Many of our local Walleye anglers were put off when Montana FWP decided to remove the limit on Walleye below Holter Dam. A major dis’ to their favorite fish. The reason, however, is the dramatic impact they can have on one of North America’s most prolific trout fisheries. Walleye are fish eating machines, and can power through pounds of trout fingerlings in a day.

There are many fisheries in Montana where Walleye are managed as the primary fishery. If you are one of the rare breed of catch and release Walleye anglers, go there.

The above Walleye died today at the hands of some Missouri River fly anglers. Good job fellas. Can you imagine how many baby trout this guy has chowed in his life? Lots. Nice fish by the way!

If you catch a Walleye – and you’re a fan of trout – make sure and introduce him to the Priest. He deserves it. You’ll be saving thousands of fish for the future.

Save a Trout, Kill a Walleye.

T-shirts coming soon.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5256″ size=”full” link=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River rock skipping

Skipping Rocks

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Ninch, Mark and I headed out on the river yesterday. The plan was to shoot some video and get a day on the water together. An option that will be rare for any of Team Headhunters for the next few months. We’ve got a short (3 day?) lull – only a few trips a day – so, go get some ourselves, right? Maybe get some cool video for the blog?

When it comes to shooting video, three things at the top of my “don’t like it” list are:

  1. Filming nymphing.
  2. Filming from the boat.
  3. Filming nymphing from the boat.

But, with the river jumped up slightly to 10,900 cfs – meaning nymph fishing would likely be the only option – and it being the only day we could all do it, we went.

The thought, of course, was that we will make nymphing look easy and fun. How could we not? Three pro’s like us, rolling down our home river hooking and landing fish at will. Nymphing is easy, and watch all these big Browns in the air! The reality was little different.

After a couple of 32GB cards of Ninch doing lots of mending, and Ninch landing a few fish, we decided to pull over and reassess. “Reassess” means that we pulled over to gather as many possible reasons and excuses that would explain our suckiness.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner parallax_bg_width=”110″ parallax_speed=”normal”][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5173″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]We came up with plenty:

  • Late start at 11am.
  • Wrong float.
  • They bumped up the river.
  • Little Prickly Pear blew out.
  • Too sunny.
  • Not enough clouds. (see how easy it is to come up with excuses?)
  • Joes’ bar was closed this morning. (still not sure why?)
  • Didn’t have any beer. (Because Joe’s was closed)
  • Wrong moon. (not sure what the moon is)
  • Too much pressure. (We didn’t see another boat)
  • There were tons of boats, but they are all in front if us. (we started late)
  • Weren’t using fluorocarbon. (I’m sure we were)

I could go on and on. And we did. They are all great reasons, and we have used them many times in the past. But the reality was that we were just sucking, and probably not giving nymph fishing in high water the respect it deserves. Just one of those days when we didn’t have it.

So we pulled over to skip rocks for awhile. Because skipping rocks is always fun, and it lets you burn off a little frustration.

The islands on the Missouri have some excellent rock-skipping-rocks, and we found them. Mark claims the world record is 23 skips, but I didn’t have time to check that one. Got to be more, doesn’t it? I’m sure I had some 23 skip tosses when I was 12 or 13.

The whole thing reminded me of skipping rocks with my dad and brothers when I was young.

Which made me wonder; did our dads teach us to skip rocks when the fishing sucked?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Trout Porn

Trout Porn Stars

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]We received a visit from Team Trout Porn last week, as they hit the Missouri River as as part of their annual spring tour of Montana. Talk about enthusiasm, this crew seems to always have a smile on their face, regardless of the fishing, location, weather or water conditions. But they always catch fish, so they should be smiling.

For those of you who are not familiar with Trout Porn, they are group of young-ish anglers who run one of the most popular Facebook/Fly Fishing pages in the webiverse. Always loaded with awesome shots from around the world, if you like looking at images of big fish, you need to check this out. If you subscribe to the “Quiet Sport” ethos, then you might want to take a pass. If you like to have fun while you fish – and stick piggies – then you should “Like” it.

My favorite part of Trout Porn is that I don’t really have a clue who they are. They use nicknames like “Grasshopper” and “Headhunter”. As far as I can tell they are from Alberta, Wyoming, and Montana. At least. I do know a couple of names, but that’s about all. They promote trout, and not themselves. Not the usual bunch of media kooks we see around here. They really seem to love trout fishing and have a great time.

Trout Porn also releases a free e-zine that’s fun to flip through. Each member contributes a “newsletter”, and there is some great still photography/video from a variety of contributors.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhGtUWlr4dU&list=UUPgqztlTj6MqbZT3_evPqyQ&feature=share”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Restigouche River Lodge

Restigouche Fall – Season’s on the Fly

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”http://youtu.be/kQoo-RZso1U”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]For those who were asking about the trip Ben Hardy and I made to the Restigouche River Lodge, New Brunswick, last year, here is the latest episode of Seasons On The Fly. SOF producer Greg Heister was in camp with us last fall, and even followed us around with a camera for a day or two.

You may have already seen this on TV, but if not, enjoy. A great representation of fall fishing on the Restigouche. You can view more episodes from Season’s On The Fly at Greg’s YouTube channel.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Opening Day. Take a Kid Fishing.

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In my case, it’s my kid. This Saturday marks the opening of many smaller streams in Montana. While many (most?) area creeks will be too high for good fishing and safe wading, there will be some small stream opportunities available in our area. What a great opportunity to teach a youngster about “Opening Day” traditions.

Our family will be busy at the shop for the Craig Caddis Festival this Saturday, so Adair and I headed out on an after school mission yesterday. While Adair always catches way more fish from the boat, she enjoys wade fishing much more. Exploring the banks of a river is high on most kids list. And a lot of adults.

P1000536

I was hoping to hit some late-afternoon dry fly fishing, but we only saw one fish grab something from the surface. Once.

We waited for the bugs, watched and explored. No rattlesnakes on this mission, but we’ve seen them in this area before. We watched a local ranching family move some cattle, and found a big Rainbow holding over a spring in a slough.

P1000516

When it became apparent that the bugs were not going to come – but a massive thunderstorm was going to come – I quickly tied on a nymph rig with a couple of caddis pupa. We waded out to some sunken islands on a nice drop off, and got to work. Within ten casts, Adair was into a nice Brown that put up a tremendous fight.

Land it. Get a hero shot. Clip the flies and head for home. Don’t push it. One is enough.

Turns out we left just in time, as a big thunderstorm was bearing down on Cascade.

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Don’t miss those opportunities to take your kid(s) fishing. It’s way too easy to say “we’ll go fishing next weekend”. Even in Montana. Better yet, take a kid who doesn’t get the opportunity, or doesn’t have an adult in their life to show them rivers and fish.

Kinnetic Loop

Kinnetic Loop – Available on iTunes

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/79952560″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]A Kinnetic Loop is a celebration of our past, present and future. Produced by our good friend Simon Perkins at Sharptail Media, this was another film featured at the Down the Hatch Fly FIshing Festival in Missoula last month. You can watch the trailer above, or better yet, go to iTunes and download the full length version for $2.99.

[us_btn align=”center” icon=”fas|download” target=”_blank” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fmovie%2Fa-kinetic-loop%2Fid864021403%3Fuo%3D4%26amp%3Bat%3D11l7vV” style=”4″ label=”FULL VERSION” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2217px%22%7D%7D”][/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Freestone Drifter Video

NRS Freestone Drifter – Video

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/93172739″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]The much anticipated NRS Freestone Drifter has finally arrived at Headhunters. We’ve received many questions about this “inflatable drift boat” designed by the whitewater/fishing guru’s at NRS. Many questions revolve around performance, but just as many are curious about the packaging and set-up. After all, this boat comes standard ground shipping. Yes, you can mail it.

Sara and Ninch are here to give you an idea about the size of the package, and what set-up entails. Pretty easy as you can see. Sara says it took and eighteen pack to build it. Not true. I had a few of those beers as well while operating the camera.

If you’re interested in a performance review and video, give us some time to properly use the boat in a variety of conditions and rivers.

In the meantime, you can check out this post about our initial impressions of the Freestone Drifter from last year.

If you’re interested in purchasing one, we have 1 available right now (the rest were pre-sold). If you buy an 18 pack for Sara or Ninch, they might help you set it up!

Demand is high, so give us a call and let us know if you would like to be on the next shipment list.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Land of the Giants – Missouri River

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Our “Land of the Giants” guides are running some great trips right now. Spring fishing at LOG is pretty good. You’d be hard pressed to fins any better in the state right now. Of course, if you don’t like catching big fish you may not like it.

Above is a picture of a great Brown trout angler Brent Hope caught with Capt. Ryan McCourtney a few days ago. Nice fish for sure, and not unusual while exploring this stretch of the Missouri River via jet-boat.

Nymphing his typically the rule when fishing LOG in the springtime. Nymphs typical of the Missouri below Holter are just as effective on this stretch. Scuds, sow bugs and “pink stuff”. Ryan likes to mix it up a little, and I’m betting that this fish was caught on a streamer. Hope you like casting big sink tips!

Ryan also loves to hunt heads, and if you see rising fish you can be assured that he will put you in position for a shot.

Land of the Giants – Missouri River Spring Special

We’re also running a Spring Special on LOG trips through the end of the month. For a mere $400 you can enjoy the wonderful scenery and fabulous fishing at LOG. Ryan can also take you to some other sections of the Missouri River only accessible by jet boat.

If you’ve always wanted to hit this section of the Missouri, give us a call at the shop. We only have two LOG guides – Capt. Ryan McCourtney and Capt. Jeff Parker – and as you can imagine, they get booked up well in advance.

1-877-379-3597 or 406-235-3447

Fiberglass Manifesto Montana

Fiberglass Manifesto on the Missouri

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner parallax_bg_width=”110″ parallax_speed=”normal”][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Fellow blogger and friend Cameron Mortenson of The Fiberglass Manifesto visited us this week following the Orvis Guide Rendezvous in Missoula. He and I spent a couple of days pounding the Missouri with the finest glass rods from Epic, Graywolf, Steffen Bros. and Orvis. Fishing was OK. Not great, but pretty good.

On our first day we fished Craig down with nymphs and did not do great. One here. One there. Singles where we should have caught 5. That’s how I would describe it. In the afternoon we switched to a big foamy dry fly. If you’ve fished with me, you know my attitude… if we’re going to have shitty fishing, we’ll be doing it with dries (shitty fishing with nymphs is totally unacceptable in my world).

We did get a few nice ones on the dry, but it was still less than stellar. We pulled off kind of early so we could head upstream and do some wading for Walleye. Cameron grew up in Michigan, and now resides in the deep south, so he has caught all kinds of fish. Many of them trashy. But he had never caught a Walleye.

Cameron broke out his Swift Epic 686 glass rod, a new reel from Bozeman Reel and a black mini-Sculpzilla per Ninch’s instructions.

Fourth cast… boom! A small Walleye, but one that I later discovered was delicious! A few minutes later I landed another (also on glass), which meant that my wife and daughter got to eat that night.

Was that the first Walleye caught on a glass fly rod in Montana? Or beyond?[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”4410″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Day two saw a marked improvement in the fishing. Nymphing in the canyon was very good. Ninch’s new Pink Lucent, something, something scud was the fly (ask Ninch what it’s called). A few Skwala’s were crawling around the boat during lunch so we switched to that and had some pretty good action. A few nice fish, but you got to stick with it.

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I Like Glass

I really enjoyed casting all of the great rods Cameron was packing. These are not toys. These are high end rods built by custom builders. Beautifully crafted with great actions faster than you would expect from fiberglass.

If you’re interested in fiberglass fly rods, check out Cameron’s blog at The Fiberglass Manifesto. Actually, if you’re interested in fiberglass you already know about TFM. Cameron single handedly rejuvenated interest in glass. So, if you don’t know anything about fiberglass fly rods, then check it out. Some beautiful rods and pretty interesting stuff at Cameron’s blog.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

FISHSKI

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]You might remember “FISHSKI” as Mark’s old licenses plate tags. Now, a major motion picture. Here is our entry for the Orvis Down the Hatch Film Festival held last weekend in Missoula, MT. It was a great film-fest. Awesome shorts and a raucous crowd. Mark and Jared got more than a few laughs from the audience, and I had fun making it. Enjoy.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/88129001″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Fly Fishing Belize

Did You Fly Fish Belize in High School?

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These Kids are Alright

Here a video from Lonely Osprey Productions, and group of younger anglers from the East Coast. We’ve become familiar with these cats through Vimeo. Here’s what they say:

We are a group of 15 and 16-year-old kids from Manhattan. It is hard to foster an interest in fly fishing while living in a big city like New York. We have started a fly fishing club at our school which has gained a surprising amount of traction: approximately 25 members. We fish the trout streams in close proximity to the city, as well as the long island sound for stripers, blues, and albies. Occasionally, we get to fish the tropics and this is when most of our filming takes place. However, stay tuned for our upcoming striper film!
Thanks for the exposure and keep the videos coming.
Tight Lines!
-LOP (Thomas Freund and Michael Kamsky)

Cool. Very. Now here’s what they do:

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Montana Cinema – Thunderbolt and Lightfoot

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Who doesn’t love a movie that was filmed in your backyard? While Montana isn’t known as a location for motion picture filming, we have had a few excellent Hollywood productions filmed here. Of course you all know and make fun of “A River Runs Through It”. While it has been blamed widely for “ruining fly fishing”, and is the butt of many jokes amongst guides in the west, it really is a pretty good story and film. But you’ve seen it.

There are some other – and much better – films shot in Montana. A few of those were filmed right here in our backyard. My all time favorite “Montana Made” film is…

“Thunderbolt & Lightfoot”

Not many folks I meet have seen this one. I always think of it when I drive by the scenic overlook at Mt. Palace (which is every day). Watch the last scene of the movie and you’ll know why. Filmed in the greater Great Falls area in 1973, it stars Clint Eastwood and Jeff Bridges (how can you go wrong?). It was also the directorial debut for Michael Cimino, who’s next film was the “Deer Hunter” (another all-time favorite).

The story revolves around a bank heist, and who doesn’t love a “Bank Heist” flick? Eastwood, George Kennedy, Eastwood regular Geoffrey Lewis and Bridges make up the gang.

Here’s just one clip, featuring some great footage up near Augusta. While actor (and Eastwood regular) Bill McKinney is playing this crazy Hillbilly, I’m sure you could meet the real-life equivalent if you spend enough time hitch-hiking the back roads around here.

 

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQKDQCYsEZM”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]I’ll bet you thought all those bunny rabbits were going to die.

There’s plenty of other scenes featuring locations familiar to anyone who has traveled around the area. Wolf Creek, Augusta, Ulm, etc.  Almost worth watching just to see how many places you can identify.

“Thunderbolt & Lightfoot” was a critical success, and also gets an 86% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. A movie well worth watching, and one that many Eastwood and Bridges fans may have missed (Bridges was nominated for Best-Supporting actor).

Headhunters Rating [vc_icon color=”custom” size=”xs” link=”” external=”0″ icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-star” custom_color=”#32beeb”][vc_icon color=”custom” size=”xs” link=”” external=”0″ icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-star” custom_color=”#32beeb”][vc_icon color=”custom” size=”xs” link=”” external=”0″ icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-star” custom_color=”#32beeb”][vc_icon color=”custom” size=”xs” link=”” external=”0″ icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-star” custom_color=”#32beeb”][vc_icon color=”custom” size=”xs” link=”” external=”0″ icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-star” custom_color=”#32beeb”] (a “must see”)[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”4110″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Orvis Helios 2 Montana

Orvis Helios 2 – Video

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Here’s a pretty cool video showing the manufacture process for the Orvis Helios 2 back yonder in VT. Good job making a video about building fly rods that I watched to the end. The Helios 2 continues to one of our favorite rods. We posted a review/comparison of the Helios 2 and Sage ONE last year. We received comments and email from all over the world.

Unfortunately, that post got lost in our database crash last year.

If you don’t remember, we love both of these rods, but the Helios came out on top in the power department, and we gave it the advantage when it came to streamer fishing, and tossing big dry-dropper rigs. The ONE we preferred for our technical dry fly fishing on the Missouri.

Now, Sage has introduced the METHOD. We may have to do a METHOD/Helios 2 comparison. Pester Mark and I and we will get it done…

John’s favorite Helios 2 rig:

Orvis Helios 2 9′ 6 weight, Orvis Mirage reel, RIO Ourbount Short full intermediate (entire line is intermediate). My all time favorite streamer rig. It will be getting a workout on the blackfoot and Missouri soon!

 

Precipitation Report & Runoff Predictions

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Snotel Reports We’re really starting to cross the line between a “good” snow year, and a “big” snow year. The low spots in the state are in far western MT, where the lower Clark Fork and the Kootenai are at 98% of normal, with snow-water equivalent of 120% +/-. That’s the least amount of precipitation I see. … Read more

Newsletter Returns

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After nearly a year of laziness – a new record for me – our eNewsletter has returned. We are aware that many of you look forward to our newsletter, and that it is the preferred platform for receiving the latest news. Those who are fans can look forward to more frequent emails in the future. … Read more

Free Fly Fishing Trip

Cancer Donation Guide Trip Winner!

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We want to thank everyone who donated to Jon and Shannon Hardy’s Boston Marathon fundraiser. Great job, Headhunters Community. Sixty-seven of you donated over $2800 for team Hardy, and Dana-Farber Cancer Research. Jon just emailed and he and Shannon pulled the winner from the hat. And the award goes to… Dan Kauffman, San Diego, CA. … Read more