Friday Fall Foto Last third of October is upon us. You better get that rod out of the case on e more time. Or two more times. Or three. Streamer fishermen are just getting their arms all lubed up. How is yours?
Headhunters Fly Fishing Schools Lots of education offered by Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig Montana. The leader in information, education, entertainment, and customer service on the famed banks of the Missouri River. Coming up this weekend we have our second installment of the Headhunters Fly Shop Advanced Fly Fishing School. The first week was a … Read more
Hump Day Brown Trout As I stated a couple days ago…the lid is about to come off this baby. Folks always ask me if I would call, email, let them know when the fishing is great. It is almost that time. Almost. The next couple weeks, the next month will be epic. The BWO’s are … Read more
SIMMS DOWNStream Jacket @ Headhunters Love this new outerwear piece from SIMMS of Bozeman Montana. SIMMS DOWNStream Jacket @ Headhunters. This past week we got to put it to the test for the first time this fall. And it performed well. A bit of rain and sleet greeted us on cool fall mornings. I have … Read more
Missouri River Montana Fishing Report October 17th 2016 The lid is about to come off this place. You are now reading the Missouri River Montana Fishing Report October 17th 2016. The most updated fishing report on the planet. Certainly in our neighborhood. Is it always good? No, not really. Is it always honest? Yep. Is it … Read more
Headhunters Advanced Fly Fishing School See Jane Fish Jane putting her new skills to work here on the Missouri River. The Headhunters Advanced Fly Fishing School ends today with another session starting this coming Thursday. Something you may want to be involved this coming year? We’ll let you know when the 2017 sessions are scheduled … Read more
Silly Saturday Scenery It is sure nice here on the Mo. It is not epic fishing, yet. It is merely damn good. Short leashing is on fire. Mid length nymphers rejoice. Dry fly anglers still searching for the change of insect size. Waiting really. You may have to wait another couple days. Good fishing everywhere … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Montana Trout Spey Video this Friday in October.
Enjoy.
The fishing is great. A bit windy here in Central Montana.
Spey Season is coming on the Missouri River. Get on board.
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Short and Sweet Missouri River Fishing Report Things are all good here in central Montana. The snow came, and the snow went. At least from the roadways. Still some good snow in the hills that started us off in the right direction towards winter. But before we get there we still have a lot of … Read more
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The legendary Rainbow Czech was popularized on the Missouri River by the crew at Headhunters. Works every day of the year. We’ve put together this Rainbow Czech Nymph Fly Tying kit that will allow you to tie up 2 dozen flies for your next fishing trip.
This fly is tied on to so many fishermen on the Missouri it will boggle you mind. Blown man.
The reason? This fly works 24/7. Honest.
Our number 1 selling fly pattern in the store too. The reason? This fly rules.
Tie it up in sizes 10-20 for all season, shoot all year long, angling success.
Our JUST ADD “VISE” fly tying kits are super popular and this one is no different. These kits are designed for tyers who have grasped the basic moves of fly tying, and are priced just as if you bought the materials individually. The package comes with everything needed to tie 2 dozen flies, and has a material list included so you can re-supply when needed. You can watch our short “how-to” videos if you need help with a step or two. These are just fantastic, and are great for those camped out on the Missouri River. Just make sure you have your vice, scissors and bobbin. If not, we have that stuff as well!
Order this and a few others for your late Autumn tying session. Then visit us not he Mo for the best November treat you could ever dream of.
It’s snowing again today…perfect.
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.10.16 Currently snowing on this Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.10.16 morning. About an inch on the ground and the weather forecasters predict even more on the way for the next 36 hrs. Then Wednesday? Sun. Until then true fall like conditions persist. What does that mean? It means … Read more
Silly Sunday Scenery Wooden Boat, Dog, Fishing, Fall Colors Really great scenery this time of year. Truly great fishing too. A really quite good tiny baetis bite in the morning and the afternoons with overcast skies keeps those bugs glued to the water. Shaping up to be one of the better October periods in some … Read more
Guide, Rental Boat, Wade Fish A natural progression for some who visit the Missouri River any time of the year. Get guided one day. Rent a boat the next. And wade fish to finish out the week. Hire a Guide The logical starting point is to hire a guide the first day you fish the … Read more
Friday Foto Fall Edition Soft hackles come out of the boat box this time of year. Swinging for those finicky BWO eating trout is a great pastime. A forgotten technique. For some. Get out here and enjoy one of our favorite times of the year. Later starts, fishing til nearly dark, and whiskey that tastes … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The first really cold week is behind us, and some of our visitors got to enjoy some downright cold and wet weather. If you didn’t have all of the right cold weather gear on Monday, you froze. And we definitely had a few clients on the boat who know this (they’ve experienced it before) yet continue to show up to the Missouri River in October with a sweatshirt from gym class and a golf windbreaker.
We thought we’d throw together some of our favorite cold weather gear for fall in Montana. And we’ll definitely be seeing some more cold and wet weather in the next few weeks.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
While people are often amazed that we’ll be out fishing in sub-zero temperatures in the winter, few realize that it’s actually much colder to be fishing in 50 degree weather with driving rain and a little wind. Thats because 10 below is dry. It’s the wet that makes you cold, so the number one piece of gear to keep you warm is a QUALITY rain jacket. We like Simms, of course, and there’s not a better solution than the legendary Simms Guide Jacket. Gore-tex, a big hood, storm flaps and cuffs that let the water runs off and not in.
But any QUALITY rain jacket will do, including your ski or hunting shell. What doesn’t work well? Minimalist, lightweight hiking rain jackets like the Marmot Precip and Patagonia Torrentshell. These are designed for active sports and lightweight packability, not sitting in a drift boat for hours in a down pour. HINT: These can be awesome under your heavier rain jacket in a two-jacket system.
Then don’t buy a knockoff of a good rain jacket, or one that advertising a “coating”. They always suck. The cheap solution is to go old school and get yourself a nice yellow rubber rain slicker. The kind that the Skipper and Giligan wore while battling that fierce Typhoon. While it didn’t save them from getting lost in the storm, they did arrive on that island alive. And probably pretty dry. These things do not breath at all, but they do 1 thing and they do it well. They keep water out. We see these in the Florida Keys and Louisiana when we’re fishing in the salt. Remember to always keep the hood up so you don’t hear the giggles…
Here’s one on Amazon for $13.95
I was sharing this with some customers the other day, and it’s an easy one to remember. If the combined temperature of the air and water are 100 degrees or less, you’re going to get cold. Now this rule relates to submersion in water and hypothermia, but it gives you a good starting point for determining how much and what kind of gear to wear for a day on the water. In other words, if it’s pouring rain and 46 degrees (we’ll assume the air and rainwater are close to the same temperature) and the river temperature is 52 degrees (you’re going to be getting your hands, face and neck wet) then we’re approximately 46 + 52 = 98 degrees. It’s going to be cold, and definitely not a day to get your legs wet wearing shorts or lightweight pants. And if you or your buddy slip and fall in, you need to get warm quick.
And please bring it. I can’t count how many time I’ve heard “I have one of those killer Simms Rain jackets, but it’s at home…”. Also, take care of it, wash it periodically and use revives on it if it start to “wet-out” and leak.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20224″ align=”center”][us_image image=”20227″ align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Mark routinely carries 3 to 7 pairs of gloves in his boat. Kinda like OJ. Different gloves for different purposes. And while many are on the never ending quest to find the perfect fishing gloves (we don’t think they exist), we think it’s much more important to keep your hands warm than worrying about how well you can tie a loop knot with them on. We find that Kast makes the best fishing glove on the market. Super comfortable, super warm and incredibly waterproof. Also, the fit is perfect on just about everyone (fingers are not too long or two short). Yes you can fish with them on and even record with them if you have a good game camera, but it depends on what you’re doing. I’ll wear them all day when swinging a two hander. I’ll use them when streamer fishing from the boat as well, but probably not all day. Nymph fishing requires too much stripping with no tension to feel, So instead of taking them off I just don’t nymph. And for whatever reason I can’t comprehend throwing dries with gloves on.
But when you do dunk your hands to release a fish, they stay dry, and the cuffs keep water our all day long. By far the best solution we’ve found and we sell a truckload of them each year.
Many of us carry some Minnesota style Choppers in the boat. These aren’t for fishing with unless you’re beating salmon on the head with a baseball bat. These are for warming your hands back. They work great by themselves with the sole liner gloves which can be worn by themselves. They work even better, however, with some hand warmers inside. They tough as hell and cheap. Look for them at ACE or your local hardware store.
An old hockey player I knew from Duluth showed these to me years ago. He advised that while they are terrible in a snowball fight, they are fantastic in a fist fight. FYI…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20226″ align=”center”][us_image image=”20220″ align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
These are easy to forget, which is lame because they are cheap and you can buy them everywhere. And most fly shops carry them. Mark and I have been known to pass them out for free on days when we know it’s going to be arctic. I always keep a few in my boat and in my gear bag. Remember to open them up inside your car or at the shop when you buy them. Give them a chance to good and warn before you take them into battle. I usually keep 1 in each pocket of my rain jacket to warm my hands up in between sips of Redbreast (see below).
And these can also be used in your wader feet as well. Put them on top of your foot when you slide into the stocking feet. Money.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20225″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Yes, they are expensive, and it’s often difficult to get the Simms model (which is the best by miles), but they are a total game-changer for those who fish where or when it’s often chilly. You will completely forget that your feet ever got cold while fishing. An added bonus is that they are easy on and off, which is great at the end of a cold day. You can also easily use the above hand-warmers in them, and they do make a “toe-warmer” model as well. We can’t recommend these enough.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20223″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Patagonia coined that term years ago, and like “Coke”, they’re all called that. Simms makes a great one, and I prefer the North Face version, but the bottom line is that they all have similar properties. They are very light, exceedingly warm, dry quickly and work when wet. That last one is huge for fly fisherman and women, as we are constantly putting our hands in the water to release fish. We also have our casting hand in the up position all day, which lets water run down our arm. And if you’re on a multi-day float trip, you’ll love in one. We like the lightweight versions and use them as layering garments under our rain jackets. Number 5 on the list, but a must-have. No really cheap way to do this – the cheeps usually suck – but you can often find good deals on last years colors or even buy a used one on eBay.
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If I could only bring 1 thing to eat ro drink on a chilly day, it would be Redbreast Irish Whiskey (see below). If I could bring 2, it would be Redbreast and a hot thermos full of Campbells Chicken Noodle or Chicken and Rice Soup. This has save countless days for me, and warms you up much better than coffee, cocoa or tea. You also get some lunch with the deal, and it will taste much better than that soggy sandwich full of cold-cuts. Make sure and use a little more water than called for, and “season” your thermos with a little hot water before you toss the soup in. Also, I highly recommend sticking with the cheap, regular old Campbells, and avoid anything that has the words “healthy” or “low-sodium” on the can. Your body wants that fat, salt and grease when it’s cold, and I’ve found that the allegedly “healthy” variants cool off much quicker. Also – NEVER use dried potato soup, unless you want to watch it explode all over your buddy.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20222″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Popularized on the Missouri River by legendary Fly fisherman and Naval Aviator “Lieutenant Dan” Kaufmann, Redbreast is a wonderful premium Irish whisky smooth enough for your LDS buddy. We like it from below zero up to about 50 degrees. If the air temperature goes above 50, we put it on ice in the cooler and play it by ear from then on.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20228″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
I’m actually not a fan of propane heaters in the boat, or propane anything for that matter. But a lot of people carry these in the drift boat, and they are almost a fixture in Winter Steelhead country. I find they work best when your hand is close enough to get burned on the white hot steel grate in front of the burner. From there on out to about 1 inch they provide a nice warning effect. After that I get just as warm putting my hand in the cooler to get the battle of Redbreast.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20231″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
I don’t do this enough, and honestly I have mixed feelings about leaving fire-rings and dead coals on the beach in the Missouri River Wilderness. But when you really need to warm up, nothing ticks all the boxes like a good bonfire. Part mental, part physical. The Missouri River has lots of excellent sand/gravel beaches to build a fire on, especially during low winter flows. Bring a few pieces of your own wood, and do the right thing before leaving. Make sure the fire is completely out and scatter the ashes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20221″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
“Don’t go outside without your hat on!” – mom
you know this one…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20218″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Fishing reports are all over the place right now. As is the weather. And your options. Typically fall in Craiglandia, and we love it. Is it easy fishing like April? No, but it’s really damn good and you can choose just about any method you want and any section you want.
Always good in the Autumn and no exception right now. Your best bet is to use smaller mayfly patterns like Military May’s, Little Green Machines, and Lightning Bugs. Fish them deep-ish in the morning, say 5 feet with a B shot in front, and go shallower as the day progresses. Going shallower is especially important on dark, cloudy afternoons.
I’m not sure if there are any patterns that aren’t working right now, but I hear mumbling from the fly case of Ninch’s worm, scud patterns large and small, Caddis Pupa and a few are still tossing the Crawdad. Understanding the different water types and where to throw the right fly is important the further you get away from standard Mayfly nymphs. If you don’t want to think about it stay small and use a mayfly nymph. Leave the experimenting to those creative types.
The dry fly game has been good to great this week. As usual, the nastier and closer it is, the more heads you’ll find. But are you prepared for the weather? Make sure and bring a couple pair of gloves, some hand warmers, a thermos full of coffee or cocoa, and layers, layers, layers!
While the air is cold this week and the river looks like fall, water temperatures are still up in the mid-50’s. Too warm for those big fall BWO hatches. Prepare for Pseudo’s, a few Calliabetis and some October Caddis.
Pseudo’s are the main game, and you shouldn’t worry about the right fly. Have several right fly’s for different situations. Lonely Browns tight to the bank are often less selective. But those roaming packs of Rainbow’s in the middle can be nasty. If you stick a fish, I’d probably just cut that fly off and try something different. It doesn’t take too many passes through the pack for them to clue in to your presence.
Not many anglers concentrate on Callibaetis or October Caddis. Both bugs hatch locally (meaning in certain areas) and neither hatch in great numbers. If you see a couple float by you are in one of those spots. Like PMD’s, our trout prefer the cripple or spinner stage of the Callibaetis, but you can get them blind on a Parachute Adams (remember that one?) or a Purple Haze. October Caddis are large, orange and like to move around on the surface. Your fly should do the same.
Often the most popular, but not always the most effective, method during October. We preach small bugs, but most revert to the loud, obnoxious and Trump-ish streamers that are in vogue to our south. Yes, they work also, but day in and day out you’ll get more fall fish on the smaller clousers, buggers and zonkers that most full time Missouri River fisherman use.
All floats are producing right now, and Brown Trout are staging up around some of the creek mouths and shallow flats they inhabit this time of year. Shallow water requires delicate presentations. Heavy tips may be a good idea from the boat, especially in deep center of the river runs. The faster ones.
Our favorite fall patterns include the Kreelex, Skiddish Smolt, Foxy Clouser and the MRS Bugger. Egg sucking patterns are often overlooked but can produce very well this time of year.
Doesn’t really matter. The water will be a little colder the lower you go, so if you’re looking for BWO’s go Pelican to Cascade. Water temps are dropping rapidly, so hopefully it won’t be too long until that hatch gets going. Nymphing is best from Holter Dam to Mid-Canon. No surprise. Lower down in the Canyon things are hot as well, but you may find average fish size a bit smaller, especially on sunny days.
We’re often asked which float is the best for fall streamer fishing, and I don’t think there’s an answer to that one. Anglers who know where to throw it on the float they are on do well. Those who don’t, don’t. My advice?: If you hit 3 rip rap banks in a row and get nothing, switch to the shallow side – or the middle – in the next run. Try something different!
All and all the fall fishing is better than it’s been in a few years, and the cooperative weather pattern we’re in right now bodes well for the remainder of the month. The best part, however, is that all methods are productive and you can choose your favorite most days.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The two-handed crowd is beginning to show up for the fall streamer experience. Last year I stated it was a bit early. I still think that, with the opportunity to present dry flies to 20-inchers on a daily basis, but this fall is shaping up a little different than last year. The weathers a little nastier. The weed and algae hangup is almost non-existent. Water temperatures are cooler. And most importantly, the trout are grabby.
This week is bringing some excellent streamer fishing weather to most of Montana, and the Missouri River is no exception. Yesterday was wet, cold and windy, and this morning folks can see snow on the high peaks if you can see them through the clouds. Cooler temps and a chance of precipitation are forecast through the week. Game on for streamer and dry fly anglers.
If hitting the river with a two-handed rig is on your agenda, here’s a few tips:
This time of year you’ll find a Scandi head on my rod in 95% of the runs I’d be fishing. No need to get real deep in most spots, and I like to cover lots of water in the early fall (our trout are moving around a lot right now). If you’re using a Skagit head use an intermediate tip like the iMOW. Most troutspey (2-4 weight) anglers will be using one of the super short Skagit heads like the OPST Commando or the new Airflow Scout. If you are looking for an excellent line for a faster Scandi style cast on your micro-spey, the Scientific Angler Adapt is an excellent choice. It is an integrated line, and one of the few I really like in the sub-300 grain region.
There are a few spots where you’ll want to fish deeper. Below Holter is one. Lots of deep and quick water, and there might be a few large migratory Browns that have moved in there. Here I’d be using a Skagit system with a 10-12 foot T-8 or T-11 tip and a big nasty streamer. Egg sucking might be a wise choice.
I see many anglers who are trying to use techniques adapted from Steelhead fishing. In particular, the strange obsession with seeing how short and heavy a leader can actually be. Think 12″ of straight 20lb on the end of a Skagit tip. Like many, I’ve done this successfully on BC Steelhead rivers, but the Missouri River is not full of wild anadromous Steelhead. And it’s clear. It’s full of old resident Brown trout who are very aware of their surroundings and what food is supposed to look like. I always try and keep a Skagit leader around 5-6 feet long. Typical tippet would be 0x-2x flouro. Scandi and long belly lines should have a leader the length of the rod attached.
If you fish the Missouri often during the fall, you’re probably aware that it is common to find Brown trout lying in very shallow water. This is especially true during stormy weather (like this week) and early and late in the day. I like to cover large flats, often ranging in depth form 1 to 3 feet. This is no place for a tip, so stick to a floating line/head. If you do use a sink tip, you’ll be cleaning lots of weeds off the flat for me, which I appreciate.
But a floating line is not the only important piece of the puzzle. You also need to land you line and fly gently. A line or head with a longish front taper helps achieve this. Standard Compact Scandi heads in the 30-35 foot length are usually perfect. Mid belly lines present very quietly, but can lack the power to turn over large flies. Remember to stop the rod tip high just like your dry fly cast. If you drive that tip down, you’ll roll that fat spey head into the river and probably be able to count on two hands the wakes of big trout scattering.
This is really the only time of the year that skating a dry fly can work with any consistency for us. Caddis hatches are not massive this time of year, but there are a few around including the giant October Caddis. Our trout have recently been feeding on hoppers and flying ants, so surface bugs with motion are on their brains. For the October Caddis I’d be using a 5-6 weight two-hander, but if you’re trying to imitate the smaller brown caddis you’ll need to drop down to a 2-3 weight to match the lighter tippet you’ll be using. The violent take also requires a very light and limber rod to absorb the shock. The smaller ECHO glass rods are perfect, and the new Sage Pulse 3110 is a very limber rod as well.
Most people I talk to are going to use the biggest and nasties fly in their box this time of year. I get it. But realistically you are probably going to do better with a smaller Clouser, Kreelex or small heavy bugger. Just saying’. Large home-brew soft hackles that imitate October Caddis can also work pretty well.
It’s starting to get pretty cool on some of the Freestones, but an afternoon spent on rivers like the Big Hole or Blackfoot could produce some very big fish and are definitely worth a try. These rivers are low right now, allowing you to cover them bank to bank.
Good luck out there if you’re giving it a go, and stop by the shop if you have any questions about spey lines, lightweight “troutspey” rods, leaders, flies, rigid, shooting lines, reel, etc.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] October Foto-Shadowing A few shots to get you all revved up for October and November fishing. October Foto-Shadowing You oughtta come on out. Give us a shout on our Fall Fishing Hotline 406-235-3447 or 877-DRY-FLYS. Operators standing by 7am-8pm daily! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid columns=”3″ post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”20200,20201,20199,20198,20197,20195″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”4px” items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_600_600_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”3″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”3″ … Read more
Silly Saturday Scenery Man with Dog Edition The sun ends today as we head into weather that gets our blood pumping. Overcast along with moisture makes us happy. The bugs like it. The fish like it. Anglers like it. What’s not to like? A few Headhunters are heading over to the Clearwater River to swing … Read more
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The Swing Season is upon us, and we are starting to line up our free Spey Clinics for the 2016-17 season. Folks are asking about it and many have already swung a fish or three this season. Our clinics and methodology continue to evolve, as spey fishing for trout – not Steelhead – has become the primary focus. Lighter and shorter rods, ultra compact heads, and a new generation of flies are where the typical Montana angler is headed.
We still have plenty to say about Steelhead and the equipment and techniques we use to catch them, however. And in our class you’ll likely be starting out with a 12’6″ 6 weight outfit, one we consider ideal for summer run Steelhead. But the trout gear is there as well, and we’re finding most of the questions we receive revolve around fishing in Montana.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”2016-17 Class Schedule
DECEMBER 3 and 4
JANUARY 28 and 29
FEBRUARY TDB
-all classes limited to 12 students-
” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center” google_fonts=”font_family:Raleway%3A100%2C200%2C300%2Cregular%2C500%2C600%2C700%2C800%2C900|font_style:600%20bold%20regular%3A600%3Anormal” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22border-top-width%22%3A%222px%22%2C%22border-right-width%22%3A%222px%22%2C%22border-bottom-width%22%3A%222px%22%2C%22border-left-width%22%3A%222px%22%2C%22padding-top%22%3A%2210px%22%2C%22padding-right%22%3A%2210px%22%2C%22padding-bottom%22%3A%2210px%22%2C%22padding-left%22%3A%2210px%22%2C%22border-style%22%3A%22solid%22%7D%7D”][vc_column_text]We have always held a class a month throughout the winter starting the first weekend of December. This year will be no different, but we will be offering two classes on that weekend. You can sign up for either the Saturday or Sunday session. The format will remain mostly the same, though I always try and keep it up to speed with new changes in gear and technique.
We will meet at the Craig house behind Headhunters at 9:00am for a visual presentation designed for those who are new to spey casting. I’ve found that even experienced two-handed anglers gain at least 1 new thing from the presentation. This is the best time for Q&A if you have some. Coffee, juice and pastries provided. We will then move down to the river for our hands on casting with our very experienced spey casting team of Ben McNinch, Sara Roholt, Curt Reynolds, Dwayne Sutphin, Mark Raisler and myself. With a limit of 12 at each class you’ll definitely get plenty of hands-on instruction.
Bring your own gear, especially if you don’t like it. Likely it was lined up wrong at that big box store. We can fix it up and make proper line recommendations.
If you don’t own gear that’s no problem as we have more than enough for the entire class. Our gear is also split between Skagit and Scandi rigs, so you can try either. And if you don’t know the difference no problem. Thats what the clinic is about.
Later in the afternoon you can try a wide variety of demo rods from ultra-light 2 weights up to typical winter Steelhead rods. You can also try a new or different line on your own rod, as we will have a large assortment of lines form OPST, Airflow, Scientific Anglers and RIO.
If you’re interested we recommend you sign up as soon as possible. Our clinics always have a waiting list, and we are reducing the class size somewhat this year so space will definitely be limited. Call the shop at 1-877-379-3597 or 406-235-3447 to sign up. You can also correspond via email.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_image image=”20176″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Jana Noges New Breed Chicks Rule We love having females in the boat. They generally out fish their male counterparts. Are you gonna ring your wife, or girlfriend? Why not bring her out this fall with you to finish off your 2016 fishing season. We have several female only groups that fish with Headhunters Fly … Read more
Mid-Week Missouri River Update The sun is out, the bugs are not, the subsurface bite is on. The sun will go away as we roll over this hump day and look towards the weekend. Rain on Saturday. Back to fall weather. Bring it. Until then the nymphing is shit hot. As good a September bite … Read more
New Breed Chicks Rule Great Falls Edition Patty B. with this nice rainbow trout on Friday. Fishing with Headhunters All Star Brett Matula. Tuesday and all is well. Sunny and warm this week. Winter, or near fall as we get towards the weekend. We are all in on the fall weather. Bring on the BWO’s. … Read more
Let the fishing guide, guide… To get the most out of your fly fishing guide trip the best method is to let the fishing guide, guide you. Sometimes I get an angler in the boat who wants to guide me. And that is OK. I used to buck that feller, but now if that what … Read more
Missouri River Late September Fishing Report Pretty good on the river this week. Nymphing is categorized in the rockstar area. Pretty good The blind dry fly game is coming on as well. The headhunting is pretty damn good in the afternoon with the advent of BWO hatches. The streamer fishing is getting rolling in good … Read more
Friday Missouri River Fog Foto Craig Boat Ramp. Launching. Fading into the fog. Friday Missouri River Fog Foto. It’s about to get real good here…
Fish 12, Sleep 12. Autumnal Equinox 2016 Today the daylight hours and dark hours equal the same. 12 hours of each. Tomorrow, more dark than light. Summer is over my fishy friends. Along with the darker hours we get cool fall fly hatches. And more time to sleep. Take advantage of the darker hours by … Read more
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We keep saying NO to mining in Montana.
We still say NO.
Not too much more to it that that.
No mining near our National Treasures.
Period.
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] A week for dries and streamers The weather is perfect. Gentle rain, overcast, and cool. Maybe some mega hatches of baby Baetis. Will you be ready for action? A clean fly line is pretty important for headhunting success. Those who are hunting for the big brown … Read more
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Pretty crucial for Missouri River fall streamer fishing.
This perennial locals favorite works!
The weather this week has us thinking more and more about chucking the big fly for big fall brown trout.
Rainbows too. But who doesn’t fantasize about the golden bellied brown trout as we daydream the day away.
We have lots of Just Add Vise Kits in the store and online. Get a few and start filling your evenings stocking your streamer boxes for the fall season anywhere USA![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/122342741″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Monday Morning Missouri River Fishing Report Marcie caught this bad brown on a tiny small olive mayfly. A sz 20! She is kicking off our Monday Morning Missouri River Fishing Report! Nymphing is on fire this week, and last, and the 8 weeks ahead of us still! Short leash, deep rig, or even in … Read more
Sunday Brown Trout More of these on tap this fall! Don’t put that fly rod in the closet yet…
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SIMMS waders made int eh USA, and fixed in Bozeman Montana.
Try picking put the phone and getting someone to answer questions about your overseas made wader?
When we have problems we just pop them in the mail and let the pros take care of it.
Chris Golz is one of the masterful team in Bozeman. If you are ever in the neighborhood you should stop in for a tour of the wader making facility. Totally worth the time. Pretty cool stuff.
Enjoy your Saturday. It is wonderful here on the Mo. A bit windy today though…
Check out more from SIMMS and Wader Makers.
Want to get in on our comprehensive wader selection while in Craig? We have your size. 22 sizes in stock...everyday.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoYApfoq9mc”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid columns=”3″ orderby=”title” order=”” ids=”6756, 6835, 8226″ post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Friday Foto Fall Foreshadowing This image from the Blackfoot River last week. Bobby Clark after catching couple Cutthroat on a Chubby Chernobyl. The Blackfoot is about over as we move into cooler weather on the westside. But it is just heating up over on the eastside of the Rockies here on the Mo. A couple … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/182807553″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Pat Clayton – CEO at Fisheyeguy Photography – and I put together another “Life Aquatic” nature video, this time featuring some of the original Montana natives… Bull Trout. Took some work and some bushwhacking but we got some very nice footage, and of course Pat’s incredible underwater still images. And this is Pat’s first serious effort with some underwater video. Really cool watching big Bull Trout pay Pat no never mind. That’s what Apex predators do.
If you like Pat’s images – and you’re a social media buff – I highly recommend following him on Facebook. Great images, humor and some conservation commentary. I’ve said it before, but Pat’s devotion to trout and the rivers they inhabit is incredible.
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New Breed Chicks Rule #879 New Breed Chicks Rule #879 with Betsy straight outta Michagan today with this nice Missouri River Rainbow. She and her husband roaming around Montana this week. Here first and then off to Boz-Angeles fro more fishing fun. Not their first trip to the Mo, and not their last. Like so … Read more
Tuesday Missouri River Fishing Report The river is active out there as we are headlong into this popular September month. Nymphers love to visit in September as the fish get off of the August slow down. Although this last August was as good as we could hope for with much better fishing than the previous … Read more
5 Tips for early fall Missouri River Fly Fishing A few reminders, tips and techniques to get you off the ground this fall. The Missouri River can hand your ass back to you this month. Pseudo’s are out, the weather can be foul, and your new office friend who said he can row real good…can’t. … Read more
Cooler weather today and tomorrow. Check out the forecast if you are heading up or out here for a fishing spell. Bring warm gear. If not pick it up at your cold weather fly shop in Craig, Headhunters. Check out the counter punch to Patagonia’s Puff Ball from SIMMS. We got it and we like … Read more
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From 1998 Patrick Roy v. Chris Osgood.
A good Saturday diversion.
Cool this morning, warm this afternoon. Windy all day.
Nymphing pretty good. Not many anglers on the water.
Saw some Callibaetis. A few Green Drake sort of bugs, but smaller. No BWO’s on the upper.
Some tossing the blind dry today. Terrestrials still in play as we did reach 81F. Not as warm as we move into Sunday and the week ahead.
Think winter as you watch the video. It will be here soon. But, actually let’s stave it off for the next couple months. Still lots of dry fly fishing in front of us. And we so love the dry fly action.
Until then we toss the nymph and stroke the streamer.
Tough goalies fight at center ice![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJlCdIOWkYM”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Friday Foto Blackfoot Sunburst Fun times on the Blackfoot. September is a nice time to be there. Get over the divide and enjoy. Fishing on the Mo? Pretty good. Read yesterday’s fishing report and we will see you this weekend! Check out the sale rack at the shop. Discounted sportswear, demo rods, fly lines, shorts, … Read more
Headhunters Fly Shop September 8th Fishing Report The big news this weekend and the following week is the weather. IT is a much cooler September already than it has been in the past several years. And we like it. Maybe a great BWO fall season is upon us. A decent showing of top water BWO’s, … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Blackfoot River September Fishing Report Fished the Blackfoot yesterday and today. Can’t tell you what happened today, but I can chat at you what happened yesterday. Flows ar equate low with Bonner registering about 400 cfs. Boney, skinny, thin man. Ran the NRS IDB yesterday, but will be running my Adipose Flow today. Saw … Read more
Missouri River September Fly Fishing Forecast Headhunters Fly Shop delivers for you today the Missouri River September Fly Fishing Forecast. We have shed the heat of August as we stare into the fold of fall. And we like what we see. Gone are the morning hatches of summer, the blazing high sun, and along with them … Read more
Fall is on the way Leaves are turning now. This morning feels more like October than September. Still a few more warm days ahead. Several. Rain all night long and into today. Cooler temps all week long. Good BWO bite and time to dust off that streamer rod. Enjoy your Monday. Back to work tomorrow…
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Browns and Brews Review Good times last night in Craig Montana. Red Lodge Ales, The Front Brewing Company, The Mighty Mo Brew Co, and Eagle Beverage poured beer from 4-8pm. Yummy is all I can say. Many enjoyed the tastes and sounds of Rocket to Uranus playing on Izaak’s Log Jam til dark. Dancing? … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Big Half Price Fly Sale Today Half Price Fly Sale today in conjunction with the Browns and Brews Fest. Come on down for the day and night. Float first. Drink local beers from local brewers second. Buy sale flies thirdly. An easy progression. Check out the rest of the sale stuff too with demo … Read more
Friday Foto Mighty Mo Brew Co Big party tomorrow in Craig. Big Sale too. Beer, Half Price Flies, Craig MT? Sounds like fun. Come buy and float the river, then have a few beers at the Browns and Brews Festival, then load up on them cheap flies. Be certain to sample Mighty Mo Brew Co … Read more
Missouri River Labor Day Weekend Fishing Report Good reports from most coming into the shop int he afternoon. The Missouri River Labor Day Weekend Fishing Report looks pretty promising. Good decent not too hot weather with light winds and a party in Craig to boot! Today we give you the bulleted version of the Fishing Report. … Read more
Yellowstone River Fish Kill Here is the latest info. The Yellowstone is open, partially. Read carefully. The latest info on the Yellowstone River fish kill includes updates from the governor, the guides, and FWP. We have spoken to a few Yellowstone river guides and they all say essentially the same thing. Holy Shit. This … Read more
Browns and Brews Fest & Big Sale! This Saturday in Craig Montana we have the 2nd Annual Browns and Brews Craft Beer Festival. Craft Beer Fest! Breweries Red Lodge Ales, Mighty Mo from GF, The Front Brewery from GF, and Eagle Beverage will be in attendance for this grand occasion. 4-8pm is the Fest with … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]I’ve been using the Fishpond Drifty Boat Caddie this summer and I’ve been loving it. Here are the main reasons why this product has become essential for my fishing:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Storage I love flies. The Fishpond Drifty Boat Caddie holds all of my leaders, tippet, floatant, an extra reel spool, and a bunch of other junk … Read more
Silly Sunday Scenery Brown Trout Graeme with this nice Brown Trout. This image makes us want to fish! Nice work Graeme. We will be dreaming of big fall brown trout as we fantasize about the fall ahead of us. Keep on fishing Graeme. We know there are many more trout in your bright future.
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Talking about less and less…my favorite line of this one of my favorite GD tunes.
Calm and not too warm yesterday. 75F in the late afternoon. Not too bad at all.
Calm too. Did I mention that? I should talk about less and less.
We got 6 of the 50th Anniversary Grateful Dead Abel reels. All of them were purchased before they arrived. One feller went radio silence with a the reel below and a rod. The reel in question is a Abel Super 6N.
Why not pick up the last Super 7-8N Grateful Dead Dancing Bears too. A matching set.
Enjoy the video, the jam, and two new reels in the mail!
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week marks the 100th Birthday of our National Park Service. Living an equal – and short – distance between two of America’s most iconic National Parks, we are constantly aware of both the importance of our National Parks, and the struggles they face in the future.
My family has enjoyed a dozen Parks – or lands administered by the National Park Service – in the past year. All for the incredibly reasonable $80 price for an annual family pass. We purchased the pass at the Mammoth entrance to Yellowstone Park last spring, and I drove through that same gate almost exactly 1 year later. They are among our most memorable family experiences, and none were a disappointment. Some new ones exceeded our expectations.
We explored volcanoes, remote backcountry and watched wildlife with no fear of man. We hiked trails jammed with tourists in street shoes, and found pockets of silence on others. We’ve seen some of the greatest geologic wonders in the country, and viewed vistas of unspoiled landscapes remarkable both in appearance, and because they still exist. We learned to rock climb, and even caught a fish or two along the way.
Montanan’s are notorious for ridiculing the hoards of tourists that descend on Yellowstone and Glacier Parks each year, but you can find most of us doing the same at least once each summer. Yes the tour buses, gift shops and kooky entrance towns can trigger fits of road-rage and test anyones patience, but what’s beyond the gates and lines is usually worth the effort.
The recent popularity of our National Parks has become a hot topic among advocates of wilderness (Are We Loving Our National Parks To Death?), and some conservative Western Politicians are trying to “take back” federal lands, including the Parks. It’s a birthday party, so we’ll refrain from voicing our opinions on these topics today. Those who enjoy our park system should read up and get involved. And as we celebrate 100 years of what Wallace Stegner called “the best idea we ever had”, read up on the history of the National Park Service and Antiquities Act. Pretty interesting stuff.
“National parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” – Wallace Stegner
Congratulations to the National Park Service on 100 years of providing unique, memorable and truly American experiences. Trips to the Parks have been an important part of my life since my first trips to Mt. Rainier and Yellowstone as a child. I hope that they are playing an important part of my daughters life as I get to experience them again with her. We hope that Headhunters Nation supports our Parks large and small. Go visit one every chance you get!
Here’s a few images from the last year…[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19789″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Volcanoes National Park, HI.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19788″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Mount Rainier National Park, WA.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19787″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Glacier National Park, MT.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19786″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Crater Lake National Park, OR.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19785″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Idaho City of Rocks National Reserve, ID.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
State of the Missouri River Craig Montana 8.26.16 Bringing you the State of the Missouri River Craig Montana 8.26.16. Headhunters is the information source on the banks of the famed Missouri River. Keep it tuned here for your daily bite of trout information, education, and trout fishing entertainment. So how are we doing as we move … Read more