November is the New October

November is the New October | Missouri River Chronicles

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John wrote an article about the too nice, the way too nice late October weather we have been experiencing and I concur. Let’s move on into the fall, the true fall conditions we have so come to love. Not expect, but certainly love!

So I put together this piece about the future. The future that we can expect, or hope to expect this coming month. The cloud cover is supposed to be more. The temperatures are supposed to be cooler. And the bugs are supposed to be bigger and come more often.

Missouri River October and November Forecast

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac…

OCTOBER 2014: temperature 46° (3° below avg.); precipitation 1.5″ (avg. north, 1″ above south); Oct 1-10: Rain to snow, then sunny, cold; Oct 11-16: Showers, mild; Oct 17-22: Snow showers north, rainy periods south; chilly; Oct 23-31: Rain and snow, then sunny, mild.

NOVEMBER 2014: temperature 41° (4° above avg.); precipitation 0.5″ (0.5″ below avg.); Nov 1-4: Sunny, mild; Nov 5-8: Rain to snow, then sunny; Nov 9-11: Rain and snow, then sunny, cold; Nov 12-18: Sunny, mild; Nov 19-20: Rain and snow showers; Nov 21-26: Sunny, mild; Nov 27-30: Snow showers, cold.

Annual Weather Summary: November 2014 to October 2015

Winter will be colder and slightly drier than normal in the north and milder than normal with near-normal precipitation in the south. The coldest periods will be in late December, early to mid-January, mid- to late February, and early March. Snowfall will be below normal in the east and near normal in the west, with the snowiest periods in early to mid-November, mid- to late December, mid-January, and early and mid- to late March.

November is the New October

Has it been colder and more normal like in years past than it has been this year? Yes, in years past. Has it also been normal with overcast and cooler temps creating more opportunities for fish to look toward the surface? Yep.

The reality is that it has been both and will continue to be. The snow and inclement weather will arrive. In November? Maybe. Reading the info above from the Old Farmer’s Almanac I don’t know what to believe. I do believe winter will visit at some point.

The big bugs have not shown yet. Will they come? I don’t know. I suspect they will. The water temps will continue to plunge as fall, or winter, may actually come. The streamer bite is becoming better everyday. Honest. Nymphing is just fine, per usual.

November is the New October

Guide trips available all month long. The November month. We get into that 2 Handed game as well. $300 Spey Trips until the end of December. Craig Trout Camp is open all winter long with lodging here in Craig. Call us for anything you may need from 2 Handed Rods, to lodging, to guides, to shuttles, to our always free coffee.

The average snowfall in November is 8 inches. The average precip total is 0.59 inches. The average high air temp is 43F with the low coming in at 23F. Much cooler than November. Although October is historically cooler than it has been.

Swinging is good in November. Real good.

Tough to choose for most between the rhythm of the swing or the beat of the dry fly bite.

What do you want to do?

I just want to be ready with dry fly rod in hand wading out to my favorite BWO slick.

 

New Breed Chicks Rule #997

New Breed Chicks Rule #997

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Jo Darling fished with Headhunters Guide Mark Raisler this past week.

Mark fished with here husband Greg last year in conjunction with the RIO Line Co trip and he returned this year with his better half.

They will be back again for a longer stay in 2015.

Greg runs the media side of The Gorge Fly Shop located in Hood River Oregon. Check them out while in cruising up the Columbia.

Travis Duddles was visiting this year with the RIO/SAGE group. HE could not make it last year and Greg subbed in, graciously. It was nice to fish with these Oregon boys.

As for Jo, we will see you next year too! We look forward to it Jo and Greg!

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.23.14

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.23.14

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The success rate goes like this…

  1. Nymphing
  2. Streamer Chucking
  3. Dry Fly Angling

That is how the numbers stack up. We all fish for different reasons. Sometimes just one fish is enough. While we do occasionally go blank one fish seems good enough.

Is it still good when we go blank? You bet.

I for one just enjoy getting out and enjoying the day. Watching the day go by is my favorite fishing plan. You can hook a few with this plan too. A little too loose for many though. Those serious anglers need more planning than that…

We get and enjoy both pursuits.

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.23.14

How about a couple hints for nymphing success.

  1. Find the bugs and put your flies, your imitations, right in the mix. Understand where the fish, the bugs are, at the time of angling and sink them accordingly.
  2. Trust yourself.
  3. If your shit ain’t working, change it immediately.
  4. Sows, scuds, midges, and mayflies will get you through the day.
Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.23.14
Get on board this winter with a Spey Day on the Missouri River

Some Streamer Fishing Secrets

  1. They, the trouts, can eat it dead drifted or on the drop. Be aware of that.
  2. When the sun comes off the water the fish go nuts for streamers. Or cloudy days.
  3. Change if you are not getting the bite.
  4. Slow strips, fast strips? Change if they are not responding to your magic.

Dry Fly Antics

  1. First cast is the best cast.
  2. Slack line presentations catch way, way, way more fish.
  3. Leave the fish if you do not get them in an hour. Give ups dn move on.
  4. Or stay til you are blue in the face. Or your fishing partner is a snoring.
  5. Cripples catch tons of trout on the Missouri River

Missouri River Weather, Flows, and Temps

4200cfs and 55F for the water temps. The weather ahead of us is not dis-similar to the weeks behind us this Ocotber. Will it change? Yes, in th endear future towards the back end of the weekend we should see more seasonal types of temperatures, clue covers, snow, sleet, baetis…you know all the stuff we pray for in this historically buggy month.

[forecast]

Click on that ICON on your right there friend. Check out the videos by Headhunters and Scumliner Media on Headhunters TV. Do it now and enjoy some Missouri River love!

The shop is open daily from 730am til 7pm. Lots of sale stuff including fly lines, jackets, gloves, hats, logo wear, Howler Bros, SIMMS, a couple demo rods from this year from SAGE and Echo and Orvis.

Check out the Spey Special that starts November 1st. $300 Spey Guide Trips. Love it. Come on out an enjoy the day swinging streamers with your 2 handed rod. If you do not have one, we can supply one. Never spey cast in your life? No worries there either. Book your $300 Spey Special and you will be catching fish on that goofy long 2 hander by days end! No Problem. Call the shop for mor info if you like.

Come by for shuttles, info, demo rods, a new RIO In Touch Connect Core fly line for your streamer or dry fly rod, or anything else that may get your through the day like killer Missouri River flies.

Izaaks’ closes for the season on the 26th. This coming Sunday. So come on out one more time for a good rack of Ribs and a cocktail.

No worries. Joe’s Bar is open 365 days a year.

See you soon in Craig!

 

titan Rod Vault

Titan Rod Vault

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Screen shot 2014-10-21 at 10.29.05 AMThe Titan Rod Vault is the key to your fishing success. Will it help you fish better? No not really. But will it help you be prepared so you can spend more time on the river? Certainly!

Headhunters Fly Shop is the lone dealer of Titan Rod Vault on the Missouri River. Come by and get yourself hooked up! Some put on on the roof of the car or truck while others jam a couple of these monsters on their rigs. 6 rods rigged and on the ready for your fishing successes! How can you beat that?

Coming in at 495 bones they are not cheap. But protection from the elements, a locking safe if you will for your fly rods valued at a bundle of dollars you cannot beat the protection.

What’s better than fishing? Fishing year-round! The Titan Rod Vault locks both function and fashion to your roof through its aluminum construction which is not only weather-proof, rust-proof and able to stand up to all of Mother Nature’s fury but it’s also quite the head-turner with its brushed finish and sleek design.

What does this mean for you? More fishing! And not just more fishing, but more fishing in more places since you can take this roof-trophy anywhere – even on your bucket list cross-country fishing extravaganza!

Never worry again as you walk into Izaak’s or Joe’s Bar with your gear on top of the car. You are safe with the Titan Rod Vault!

Check out the Titan Rod Vault Web Site for more information and keep up to date on their Blog. How about the Titan Rod Vault Facebook site too!

HEadhunters has the Titan Rod Vault in stock and we can help you attach it to your rig right outside the shop. Come see us today for your Titan Rod Vault and we have a boatload of testimonials to help you confirm your decision. We love the Titan Rod Vault!

Titan Rod Vault

 

 

www.titanrodvault.com from In The Loop Productions on Vimeo.

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]

Tuesday in October

Tuesday in October | Red Shafted Flicker

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Northern Flicker | Red Shafted Flicker

Flickers are fairly large woodpeckers with a slim, rounded head, slightly downcurved bill, and long, flared tail that tapers to a point.

Flickers appear brownish overall with a white rump patch that’s conspicuous in flight and often visible when perched. The undersides of the wing and tail feathers are bright yellow, for eastern birds, or red, in western birds. With a closer look you’ll see the brown plumage is richly patterned with black spots, bars, and crescents.

Northern Flickers spend lots of time on the ground, and when in trees they’re often perched upright on horizontal branches instead of leaning against their tails on a trunk. They fly in an up-and-down path using heavy flaps interspersed with glides, like many woodpeckers.

Look for flickers in open habitats near trees, including woodlands, edges, yards, and parks. In the West you can find them in mountain forests all the way up to treeline.

Headhunters Fly Shop Missouri River Fishing Report

Headhunters Fly Shop Missouri River Fishing Report October 20th

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Headhunters Fly Shop and Guide Service Missouri River fishing report.

Coming to the end of the month and we still have warm temperatures. This past weekend we saw the highs get into the 70’s. Too warm for October.

The fishing? Not too bad. The RIO Line Co was hosting their annual trip and most of the week the gang was streamer fishing. Was it good? From time to time the fishing really heated up. Good and bad all week long. But that is the upshot of fishing.

Do we want it to become more fall like? Absolutely.

[forecast]

Dry flies that seem to wrk when you find a few fish rising? Mostly Cripples and tiny CDC Emergers.  Some have been having good luck with LaFontaine’s Buzzball. Ants, caddis, smaller attractors can get them looking up too.

Nymphers have been having a ball. What is the secret to bobber success? A scud or sow for the lead fly followed by the Zebra or a small mayfly imitation. That is the most common rig. But if you want to experiment beyond that formula you are certainly welcome to do that. Firebeads are coming back. Worms have been known to have worked recently.

Any of the midge stuff that you like is working too. Lots of those annoying tiny fellers swarming around you head in the mornings, evenings, at lunch. Tiny flies are the norm in the late fall into the early winter. They can become selective. Get that ball of fire to settle down for a spell and we should be just fine.

Then most anything works really. Short or long and many places in-between. Find the depth you like and fish it.

The streamers that were hot this last week…because that is all we really know is that. Predicting the future is s tough thing to pull off. Brown or Olive Skiddish Smolts, Marabou Clousers, smaller closers, black buggers, Micro Zonkers, smaller Double Bunny’s, Purple Buggers, and some leeches too!

The popular streamer line is the RIO Streamer Tip withe the 10′ Clear Intermediate Tip. Just right for the water conditions this fall!

Shop open daily from 7am til 7pm. Lots of fun still be be had this October. Pray for overcast skies and some inclement weather patterns and we will see you on your favorite dry fly flat.

Silly Sunday Scenery

Silly Sunday Scenery

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Looking for the rise form.

Eric Mondragon and angler Dave out for a day of fly fishing on Montana’s Missouri River.

The fall is a good time to get out.

Are you going to get out another time before we put on our snowy pajamas?

You should. Enjoy this Sunday. Fish if you can.

Time to Swing

Time to Swing?

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The days of Autumn are here and the daylight becomes about 4 minutes less per day.  The hours I work at the shop limit fishing time before and after work. The other day I thought I would get out for a couple of hours before my shift and work on my spey casting and maybe hook a fish or two.

Armed with the Sage Method 6119, RIO Scandi 390, and a Olive/White Dali Lama I headed up stream from Craig. Around 8:30 I entered the river with a nice 17 mph SW wind blowing down stream.

After a few warm up casts that placed my anchor point everywhere but the right spot I managed to throw some line to my intended target. Part of my scouting trip included seeing if the weeds would be too much to swing a streamer. Not at all is the answer.  With few exceptions the weed flew off during the cast.

Placing my anchor point in the weeds was my only concern at this point. Even the fish decided to cooperate by hammering the Dali. I prefer a longer two-handed rod like like the Method 6126 for throwing line with ease. The Method 6119 makes me a better caster as the timing needs to be right for long casts, but when a 18″ fish climbs on board the bend in the rod is similar to a 6wt single handed rod.

For the two-handers in the audience the river is shaping up for swinging. If wading is your only option it’s another tool to get that streamer out there. Headhunters has plenty of two-handed demo rods from Sage, Orvis, Thomas & Thomas, and Echo to get you into the swing. Stop by the shop and the staff will help with equipment questions, hot streamers, and recommendations for areas to swing on the river. Don’t miss our Two-Handed Spey clinics this winter, for information visit our web site or call the shop.

Friday Foto

Friday Foto

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Fall colors in full effect.

The non-local locals are here in full effect.

Streamer fishing? Getting closer to full throttle.

Dry fly fishing? Not as much, but some afternoons are pretty killer.

Be there. Be here. Be present.

Then, and only then can you participate or even inundate yourself in Montana’s Missouri River Fall.

 

Missouri RIver Montana Weekend Fishing Report

Missouri River Montana Weekend Fishing Report

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Getting revved up for the big Weekend ahead. Not much to talk about other than the fishing. It is good. Or at least some of the time. Really depends on your skill set. Commonly, certainly when the fish do not want to go on a feeding bender where they eat everything that passes by their mouth, the fishing is as good as you are. We have arrived at that satge once again.

Fish will drive you to drink. Sometimes happily.

Missouri River Montana Weekend Fishing Report

So what is happening on the Mighty Mo’? Just the regular too warm fall stuff. The days have been warm, save for some pretty windy, really damn windy…afternoons. Too warm I might add. We like some sort of hint that winter is around the bend. Like overcast skies and baetis going nuts at 145pm daily.

We are reminded nightly with the ALCS and the NLCS on the boobtube that we are in the fall time frame. Wintery afternoons with some freezing, or near, temps would get us ramped up for the real BWO. Hopefully coming to your, no our, river soon.

I like wandering into Izaak’s for a Hot Toddy, or three, after getting the job done tossing streamers all morning long , then lunching, then hunting heads til dark pushes you to the bar.

Is that too much to ask?

 

 

Missouri River Water Flows and Temps

Flows int he 4K range and should be stable for a while. Good flows for this time of year. Right at the 68 year average. If you are keeping track. So the fish are adjusted to this flow. Water temps are falling slowly too. Please come out big bugs. Big BWO’s.

Missouri RIver Montana Weekend Fishing Report

Missouri River Weekend Weather

[forecast]

Way too sunny for my liking. It is damn pleasant with these blue skies and warmer daytime temps, but not too good for the non eye lidded trout. I guess we will have to fish anyway…

Missouri River & Headhunters Fly Shop

Guides available for the remainder of the month. Lodging too. Call our crack staff and get on board. Remember $300 Spet Guided Trips beginning November 1st and the bevy fo Free 2 Handed Casting Clinics select Saturdays beginning in December.

The shop is open daily from 7am on til after dark.

Izaak’s open every night but Tuesday til October 26th. Then you will have to eat in Wolf Creek at the two restaurants there, the Frenchman & Me and The Oasis.

We’d love to see you this month on the Missouri River. Let us know how we can help.

New Breed Chicks Rule October Edition

New Breed Chicks Rule October Edition

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Karen Sorocco with this nice fish last week on the Missouri River.

More and more women coming out with their girlfriends, boyfriends, husbands and by themselves too.

Love to see the gals on the water.

Women are a treat to fish with as they see the day as an entire experience. Catch some fish, look at the animals, chat, catch some more fish…

Women also still have the ability to learn. And learn they do.

And ego’s. They do not bring that emotion on board.

Until they start out-fishing the boys…which they commonly do.

Hooray for the women that fish the Mighty Mo.’

Bring it on!

Fall Fishing Montana's Missouri River

Fall Fishing Montana’s Missouri River

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It is great. The big bugs are not here yet, but the dry fly fishing can and has been pretty good.

Different stretches of the river can hold bugs for the day, good hatches and success on the dry fly. Posted up and getting them.

Other reaches? Not as good.

Is there any way to tell which stretch will fish well today? I do not have the Genie in the Bottle but I can guess. And I do. And sometimes I guess wrong.

You? How are your guessing skills?

Fish to your strong points. Fish the water that you are comfortable with if you like to catch them or at least have an opportunity to get them on the dry fly.

Blind fishing has been good to as you have been reading the past couple weeks on this very blog.

RIO Line Company and SAGE Rods are here for their annual trip and it has been a ball already. They love to toss the streamer and then when the dries show…it is time to get out the SAGE Accel Rod and have at them. For streamers this week they have been throwing the SAGE Salt saltwater rod in both 5 and 6 weights. We have them both in stock and we also have a 5, 6, ad 7 wt. Accel in stock for demo purposes. We are really getting into the Accel. Come in today and take one out for a test drive. It is awesome.

The weather ahead looks sunny. Will it have some clouds in it? Will it be good for dry fly fishing? Only you can guess.

[forecast]

You do have to be here to really get a feel for what is happening. You gotta go to know.

So we always go.

We really do love this time frame on the Missouri River and let us know if we can help in any way for the future. We are here at the shop from 7am til 8pm daily for all your river needs like lodging, guiding, demo rods, flies, coffee, free high speed info, and much, much more!

 

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.14.14

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Approaching the middle of the month and the big BWO’s? Not here.

They have flirted, a little bit. Nothing to write home about.

So what are we doing this week to keep ourselves busy on the water? well, we’ll tell ya.

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.14.14

Dry Flyin’ when we can. Blond fishing still producing good numbers of eats with your favorite dry flies. Bigger the better for the human factor. The fish like the little stuff. Can you meet somewhere in between? Your choice.

Adams, Wulff’s, ants, baetis stuff, some good caddis dries as well. Emergers? If you want to get a few on the trailer, then yes. Try your favorite attractor like an October Caddis. For those who find the sipping trout of the Missouri River you should be comfortable with small CDC Emergers, cripples, and spinners. Any of the killer Harrop stuff will work if you are so inclined.

Nymphin’? Short or long with a big one up top and a small one on the bottom. Or two small ones. How about double Zebra’s. How about a sz 20 Zebra and a sz 20 PT? That’ll work.

Streamer fishing? Brown is the theme of the week. Then yellow. Then flashy. Just sayin.’

Lots of apostrophe’s this report.

Weather? Windy and too sunny yesterday. Windy is a constant bothersome event here on the Mo’. But you know that. Get your stiff rod out of the car and use it.

[forecast]

Guide trips for the last week of October? Yes, we got guides. Fishing Hotline in Craig? 406-235-3447 or 877-DRY-FLYS. Call today.

Shop open every morning at 7am with hot cheap free coffee.

Missouri River October Flies

Missouri River October Flies

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Dries that have kept our interest this last week include some of the following. The weather has not been cooperating with clouds and moisture. But it should, would, will come? We are doing the snow and rain dance daily.

Row 1: Lewis CDC & Foam October Caddis, Orange Stimulator, Swisher Dancing caddis, Tan Para Caddis, Translucent Pupa.

Row 2: Nymens DOA Cripple, Harrops Last Chance Cripple, Baetis Cripple, Sparkle Dunn Baetis olive, Harrops Biot Emerger, CDC Indicator Comparadun.

Row 3: RS-2, Hi-Vis BWO Spinner, Snow-Shoe Midge, Q’s Cluster Peacock , Juan’s Midge Ice Emerger Black.

Nymphs that have been getting us through the week are per below. Get out there and get some. The morning show has improved and you can expect a pretty strong bite most times of the day. Although, it is better when there are a billion bugs not he surface.

When there is not a great hatch, the fishing can be slower. Then toss streamers?

Screen Shot 2014-10-12 at 9.02.04 PM

Row 1: ClawR Crayfish, Pat’s Rubber Legs

Row 2: Pearl Lightening Bug, Mason’s Peep Show, Micro Mayfly, Matt’s Autocad, Rainbow Warrior, Purple Weight Fly, Purple Lightening Bug, Zebra Midge, Tailwater Sowbug, Rainbow Czech

Row 3: Magic fly BWO, Newman’s Own Midge, Stout’s WD-50, BH Midge Pupa, Arnold’s Palomino Midge, Juju Baetis, Skip’s Anatomay, Mercury Flashback PT, Mercury RS-2, S&M Nymph

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.10.14

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.10.14

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Getting mighty fishy my fishy friends. It is heating up and the fishing is getting a little bit better everyday.

Matt and Oliver fishing with Mark caught this killer double above from this last week. Nice fella’s!

Want to rip some lips and deep nymph all day long stacking ’em up? You can.

How about short and easy? Yes to that magic as well.

No bobber for you? DFO? Yes of course. The Missouri will provide the love.

Don’t like any of that action and love to chuck and duck all day till your arm says no more…yet you still have two miles to go? You dig that kinda fishing? Answer? Yes.

Anything you like to do we got it here in central Montana. Per above the fishing is really coming on strong and will continue to get better. The out of area guides are all here too. Most of the working guides in Montana are here including us here at Headhunters. Guides out daily. We have some killer Adipose rental boats for your pleasure too. Full service fly shop? Oh yeah. How about lodging for the remainder of the month or even into November? www.CraigLodging.com

[forecast]

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.10.14

The entire river is fishing well from Holter Dam to Cascade and every run and stretch in between. Choose your reach and enjoy. Not as many folks around this mid week but we should expect some more fishermen around this weekend. Unless they all decide to hunt, watch football, or clean the dreaded garage. Call the shop for the up to the minute fishing report from one of our super fishy staff.

Nymphers Unite

Killer flies that will get you through the weekend include for those who like the nymph include Little Green Machine, Angel Hair PT, JuJu BWO, Juju Brown version, Hot Belly PT, Two Bit Hooker, Magic Fly BWO, Glass Beaded RS@ PT, Zebra, Newmans Own, Rainbow Czech, tan UV Czech, FB’s, Tailwater Sows, Ninch’s Lucent Bead Sow, Ray Charles, Indigo Child, Red HEaded Step Child, CDC Beaded Bubble Backs, Micro Mays, CDC Emergers, and your fav’s too.

DFO’s

For those dry fly enthusiasts you will like Adams, Purple Haze, Purple Craze, Purple Phase, CDC Emergers, Harrops Cripples..all of them, CDC Bubble Backs and Loop Wings, small Adams, BWO PArachute, SPlit Wing BWO’s, and your fav’s.

Headhunters is your Streamer HQ

Streamer fellers will like R2R’s, Yellow Yummy’s White and Black Urchins, Black and Olive Buggers, Skiddish in all flavors, Superflash Zonkers, Kreelex, Leeches, and may more.Headhunters has over 125 bins stuffed full of Streaemer Flies for the Missouri River and beyond. We have the Galloup stuff for those who like to stock their fly boxes as many other shops run out of the killer articulate patterns. Not us. We are fully stocked and ready for you the angler. The best streamer selection on the Missouri River hands down. Come and check it out.

We are known for our vast selection of fly lines and for you streamer addicts we have all of the right gear. Lines from RIO like the Outbound Short and Streamer Tips and density’s that many do not carry. We got ’em all! Versi Leaders for those wanting to tweak the rig even further. The sinking attached leaders in many differing sink rates and lengths.

You need demo rods for the two handed set? We have them ready to go for the fall and winter. Lines too. Your streamer and two handed destination fly shop in Craig is Headhunters. Let us know how we can help. Coming on November 1st we are introducing our Two Handed Spey Guided Trips for $300. More on this later.

Flows and Water Temps

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report

Water temps continue to fall and the river has dipped in its level as well. We are loving this cooler temperature as the fish are at their peak of activeness and fighting well. Jumping too. Bottom line is that they are comfortable at this temp like we are as humans at 68F. So come out and enjoy.

The flows have dipped this last week and check out the link on the right to the USGS site for current conditions. Good wading and good rising fish level for the remainder of the month.

Headhunters Fly Shop is open daily at 7am for all your Missouri River fishing needs. Ldging, guiding, gear, flies, info, and free coffee daily here in Craig. See you soon on your favorite dry fly flat!

 

Friday Foto

Friday Foto

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It is damn pretty here on the Mo’.

Eagles, Brown Trout, and you?

The fall colors are happening and the we just love the shorter days, cooler nights, and clean smelling air.

The weeds are fading, the bugs are hatching, and the fish are rising.

Lots of Eagles around the river.

Just like this one.

And, I like birds.

Happy Friday. Hope your weekend is awesome.

Missouri River Fly Fishing

A few Missouri River October Fly Fishing Tips

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We are in full swing for the month of October. Lots of stuff happening. Not the big bugs yet but they gotta be on the way. Tons of Pseudo’s around almost every day. Overcast conditions are heading our way as we move past the middle of the week towards the weekend. Bring it on.

Clouds.

A few Missouri River October Fly Fishing Tips

  • Sleep in. No rush. The sun needs to rise for the bugs to move up in the water column.
  • Think opposite of the rest of the gang. Be smart and you too can stay out of the boat and wade fisher hatch. Think about it and execute your plan.
  • Blind fish some of your favorite water. You may be surprised.
  • You can employ all three disciplines for any given day. It is fun to fish all three during the day.
  • Don’t fish like a dick. It is quite rude.
  • Tons of non-local locals around and hunting some heads.
  • October is short. You should come out. It gets cold in November.
  • 3 words. B.W.O.
  • Overcast. 45F. Moisture in the air. Calm.
  • We love October.
  • A parachute Adams works well. Check out the shop for a vast selection of Cripples, Emergers, Spinners.
  • Make the first cast a good one. The initial drift is king! Honest.

 

 

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.8.14

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 10.8.14

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If we can get grid of this damn sun and move into some cloudy weather patterns we will see more fish rising.

Until then, we will just have to endure the beautiful relatively windless days here on the Missouri River near Craig Montana.

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report,
Frank from NY with this Rainbow below Craig MT

The bugs come int he afternoon and we do get a few hours sometimes more of dry fly fishing as the afternoon moves int he direction of the veining. Do you need to stay out til the cows come home? No. But staying out afternoon is good.

Some mornings can be tough as the air temps seem to keep the bite on the slow side. But if the air temps are in the high 50’s or low 60’s then you may stand a chance of having a fantastic morning fishing session.

As I stated the afternoon bite has been strong. From short and long nymph rigs to blind dry fly fishing to streamer tugging to sight fishing to sipping trout in pod like behaviors. Have breakfast at the Frenchman in WC and we will see you for a shuttle and flies after that last cup of coffee.

The water temps are falling with the cooler evenings and the BWO’s have not arrived. That is the status as of today. Falling air temps later in the week will help this cause.

[forecast]

Headhunters Fly Shop open daily @ 7am and open late til 8pm for all your Missouri River needs. Shuttles, flies, warm clothing, rain gear, hats, HH logo wear, and much more. Check out our SALE Rack!

 

headhuntersflyshop.com is back

Headhuntersflyshop.com is back!

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Website down for a day. Malware invaded the server and fouled us up, or down.

Lost a couple weeks of posts but seems to be stable now and we are back.

Just like rising trout. You can put them down, but they want to come back…

Sorry for the confusion and we will get you back to square one with a fishing report and more.

John will be cleaning things up in the next couple days as you may have a feeling of Deja Vu. It is October, not September. You are not dreaming.

Thanks for reading…honest.

Always worth the trip

Always Worth the Trip Video

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Here is the latest video from Scumliner Media from some fishing from Mark and John on the Blackfoot River this past month. Get over there in the next week. Like this one and you may have some really good fishing![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”http://vimeo.com/107730712″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 9.20.14

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September and all is well. The river is not empty as we move through the 3rd busiest month of the year.

October is not as popular, but we suggest you may like it. Well only if you like streamer fishing and BWO’s.

As for this weekend on the river, Montana’s Missouri River, we can expect some decent fishing.

Are we setting records on the catch rates? No, not really. If you work hard you can get the job done and enjoy the day thoroughly. Fishing is not always about the catching. Sometimes it is, others not. The days have been so very wonderful as the daytime highs are just right for all day long comfort.

[forecast]

You like? Remember the big party tomorrow on the river, at Headhunters Fly Shop sponsored by Howler Bros Clothing right outta Austin Texas. Howlin’ on the Mo’! begins at 3pm with live music, food, swag, sales, and tons of your favorite fishing folks wandering around Craig and hanging at the shop for a spell.

Howlin_OnTheMo_WebBanner copy

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 9.20.14

The dry fly fishing on any given day can be very good. A good bite on Caddis, some larger mayfly stuff like the Callibaetis and the tiny Anoka’s. Read this killer informational blog by John here about these Pseudo Anoka’s that can just drive us batty!

Blind fishing a big bug of your choosing can work as well. Adams, Caddis, attractors of you favorite flavor, Try it if you lile it. You certainly do not have to do as I suggest. You can nymph too.

WE

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report
Good falling water temps means BWO’s are around the corner!

We love the falling water temps as the BWO’s should come at some point. When? I actually think they should come earlier but they never seem to follow my plan, my dream. When they do come it is game on. Until then we will have to fill our afternoons with the bigger bugs like the October Caddis, I think John mentioned that if you wait too long…and the streamer bite can be quite good in the latter parts of September before the brown trout make their way towards sex, towards mating, towards spawning time.

Mike Jared
Mike with this nice brown trout fishing with HH Guide Jared Edens!

The entire river is fishing well and the weeds are not a problem. No complaints in the last couple weeks. Pretty light year for weeds anyway and we do not even consider them to be an issue. High line speed casts and some good casting can alleviate mush of the concern. Come into the shop and see where the pressure is and float somewhere else if you lie to get and stay away from other anglers. Some pressure here and there from bank anglers but they too are spread out nicely.

Nymphing is as good as the day will provide. Sometimes the bite is not as good as we like it to be so keep changing those flies. Try all the regular stuff like Czech Nymphs, Purple and Gold Weight Flies, Worms, Sows, some Firebead stuff and Crawdads up top with the selection towards the bottom of the rig patterns like Little Green Machines, Zebra’s, Peep Shows, Purple LB’s, Pearl LB’s, PT’s, Don King’s, Newman’s Own Midge, WD 40’s, Red Headed Step Child’s Juju BWO’s, Tungsten Redemption, and your killer home tied stuff.

Keep it fresh for all day success. If the fish eat the fly right out of the gate and then stop…you have to make the change. You have to dictate your catch rate. Those who wait for success, well…you know how this ends. Make your own destiny and fish hard!

Come on out and join us tomorrow at 3pm for food and music and such. Sale items include summer stuff, shirts, hats, SIMMS, Howler Bros, RIO, demo rods, cheap accessories. Also the new fall gear is in and moving too. Wool shirts, gloves, warm hats, hand warmers, coffee Thermos’, rain gear too.

Shop open daily @ 7am and open late til 8pm for all your Missouri River needs. Shuttles, BS, free info, free coffee…

 

Howlin' on the Mo'!

Howlin’ on the Mo’! Tomorrow Sunday Sept 21st 3pm

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You coming tomorrow for the fall party of the year? We hope so!

Howlin' on the Mo'! Tomorrow Sunday Sept 21st 3pmThe menu is set with Chicken Skewers & Peppers, Garlic & Onion Burgers, Kosher Dogs, salads, chips and more!

The Wrinkle Neck Mules will a lose be playing on this balmy September afternoon Sunday @ 3pm and running til dark, about fish.

Come and see us at Headhunters for a Howler Bros sponsored event with live music, swag, prizes, sale items, fellowship, and you!

Howlin’ on the Mo’! Tomorrow Sunday Sept 21st 3pm

Stop on by and say hello. We’d love to see you. Enjoy the music, have a bite, and head home for Sunday Night Football.

See you soon…in downtown Craig.

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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New Breed Chicks Rule Thursday Edition

New Breed Chicks Rule Thursday Edition

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Ann Nash rocking this big brownie on an ant. Bi-color in skinny water.

That fish just sucked it under. Pretty surgical indeed.

You know the take…the fly just disappears.

Where?

Into the mouth of this great creature.

Fall is here and the dry fly afternoons are just fine. Setting any records? No, not really. Is it good? Yes, pretty good.

 

Don’t forget to see us this Sunday for the Howlin’ on the Mo’! BBQ, Wrinkle Neck Mules, sale items, free killer SWAG from Howler Bros and Headhunters and much more beginning at 3pm at your favorite Craig MT fly shop.
October Caddis. Yes.

October Caddis. Yes.

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Fish these. October Caddis can be good in September.

Don’t wait to long. Get on it.

This is the short fishing report.

You can nymph too. It is mostly good, most of the time.

Fish the caddis, October or not, and you can be happy. Big Adams too. Big anything that you can stand it. Ants?

Sunny this week as we move along in September. October is nearing as the weather will sour. For sure.

Get on out and enjoy the week. It’s awesome.

[forecast]

 

October Caddis. Yes.
Fantastic Afternoons on the Missouri River
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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Autumn Leaves. Freddie Hubbard.

Autumn Leaves. Freddie Hubbard.

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If you know this tune you will love Freddie Hubbard playing this most important of this non-American Jazz Standard written by the French and the English lyrics added by Johnny Mercer in ’47. Autumn Leaves played by American horn player Freddie Hubbard is one of my favorite fall tunes.

Enjoy this one today. It’s long and it’s perfect.

Close your eyes and dream of the Mo.

Autumn Leaves. Freddie Hubbard.

 

 

Howlin' on the Mo'!

Howlin’ on the Mo’! Sunday September 21st 3-8pm

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Howlin’ on the Mo’! presented by Howler Bros of Austin TX and Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig MT Sunday September 21st at 3pm

Yep. Another kick ass party in Craig Montana “Home of the Missouri River.”

The boys at Howler Bros will be in the area for a couple days and they asked if we wanted to party…you know the answer we provided.

Come join us @ Headhunters Fly Shop Sunday afternoon September 21st the last day of summer about 3pm for a kick ass BBQ selection including skewers, poppers, dogs, and burgers, the Wrinkle Neck Mules, give-aways, swag, Howler Bros clothing, and you!

It’s goonna be awesome Y’all!

 

Join us this Sunday for a Howlin’ good time with live music, fellowship, BBQ food, beer, free stuff and much, much more!

Check out the Howler Bros Facebook Page here

Howlin’ on the Mo’! Facebook Event Page

September Missouri River Fly Fishing Facts

Missouri River September Fly Fishing Facts

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Mid September has rolled on in and all we had to do was blink. Well blink no more for the remainder of the month as w have truly been enjoying this particular September.

The best dry fly fishing that we have witnessed in this generally dry fly drought month. The caddis have returned as they commonly do in the latter part of  summer and pressing into the month of September here on the Missouri River. The pesky Psuedo’s are here in a big way but they too have allowed some successes when casting at these frequently snobby feeding trout.

Missouri River September Fly Fishing Facts

Best weather of the summer. Save for this week we historically have highs int he 70’s and lows in the 40’s. Some days will creep higher and some mornings will fall below the freezing mark too. All in all a great month with very little precipitation and favorable daytime highs.

This September we have hopper fishing. Toss the bigger fly or go the other way and tie on the small fry of your choice.

October Caddis fishing is really quite good. Can you twitch it? Remember there is a difference between just dragging it and the proper twitch. If you do not know how, just dead drift it for resounding sucking takes.

Nymphing is red hot. Until the afternoon. Then some days it sucks. Pretty bad. A fish a mile in the pm can be good. Depending on the day. You’ll just have to try it to know. The dam is of course white hot. Work out your arms and row around as long as you want. This great nymph month should only get better.

The colors are changing. While we do not get the famous broad brush strokes of the NE US we do get some pretty stunning yellows. Bring your camera for the colored up brown trout and the leaves.

Psuedo’s.Try your hand at the mostly impossible sipping trout on these damn small BWO’s. Good luck. Sometimes we toss bigger flies at these rising trout. We recommend spending less than 10 minutes on fish that won’t eat the fly. Trust me, I’m a guide.

The streamer fly is making a comeback. Fellers pausing and pawing through the streamer region at Headhunters this month already. Need some kick-ass patterns for the upcoming fall bugger season? Stop in. We got a bundle of them. Truly. October is coming.

Bring more clothes. It can get pretty shitty if the wind comes up. A sweater and a rain jacket are not a bad idea on any given day.

Time to get out a few more times before the fall slips by. It certainly can. Come up for the afternoon if you are local and sneak out for a weekend if you are further from our wonderful resource. If you don’t come this year you will be one year older when you do…

 

 

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 9.13.14

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Missouri River Montana Fishing Report for this coming week including the weekend.

Warming up although it started out cool this morning throughout the week with air temps apparently moving into the low 90’s this week. Do we believe it? I guess so. While t is not the norm for September we don’t really expect anything different form this mystery month.

[forecast]

Until then we will enjoy the re-emergence of summer. Will we get a few more Trico’s before the Autumn fully sets in? Probably.

The Psuedo’s are out in force and we are getting the normal questions about how to catch them on top. The answer for most smart anglers is to move on down the river until you find tort that may entertain a dry fly. I will spend about 5 minutes on these mostly non eating fake fly fish. Do we care? We only care if they don’t eat our flies, and they commonly don’t. I have already spoken with several fellers that have invested hours on these fish. Are they eating on top? Sometimes. Sometimes they are eating just under the surface.

The nymphers are getting the job done with Purple Weight flies, Crawdads, Czech’s, big Tungsten PT’s, Hare’s Ears, October Caddis Pupa, Tan UV Czech’s, Juju BWO, Red Headed Step Children, Grape Slushy, Two Bit Hooker, Magic Fly BWO, Angel Hair PT’s, Purple Hot Spot PT’s, Gold Weight Flies…

The dry fly guys that are doing well are blind fishing bigger junk like the Hopper still, ants, beetles, Stimi’s, October Caddis dries, giant Adams and the like. Why not blind a few out there. Can’t hurt right?

Streamer fans are starting to froth at the mouth as we near the month of October. It will come. Headhunters has the best selection of Streamer Flies int he county. Fer sure dudes.

Rental Boats from Adipose and guides from Headhunters will get you through the week. Just had a big group right outta Great Falls here this weekend and they had a ball. Some went down river ad got them on the dry. The others went up river and got them on he nymph. Where will you go?

Headhunters open daily @ 7am and open late til 8pm. All kinds of fall clothing in the shop. Is it time for new waders this fall. Toss those leaky ones in the trash and get into a dry GoreTex set for the fall and winter. We can help. Rian gear and warm stuff too. Hats and gloves for all seasons. See you here this months and certainly in October!

Friday Foto

Friday Foto

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Friday Foto Eagle Edtion today this Friday the 12th of September.

Snow the last couple days. Sun today.

Look at  the weather and if you are of the fair weather type of angler you may want to come out sooner than later.

In previous years we have seen too warm a fall. Let’s hope we have something closer to normal. A little cool weather can get us off to the right start this fall.

Cross your fishy smelling fingers.

Have a great weekend and a great Friday!

Friday Foto

Howlin' on the Mo'!

Howlin’ on the Mo Sunday September 21st 3pm

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Howlin’ on the Mo presented by Howler Bros of Austin TX and Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig MT Sunday September 21st at 3pm

Yep. Another kick ass party in Craig Montana “Home of the Missouri River.”

Why? Why not is what we say. The boys at Howler Bros will be in the area for a couple days and they asked if we wanted to party…you know the answer we provided.

Come join us @ Headhunters Fly Shop Sunday afternoon September 21st the last day of summer about 3pm for a kick ass BBQ selection, the Wrinkle Neck Mules and one more band TBD, give-aways, swag, Howler Bros clothing, and you!

It’s goon be awesome Y’all!

Check out the Howler Bros Facebook Page here

Howlin’ on the Mo Sunday September 21st 3pm

Howlin_OnTheMo_WebBanner copy

 

Check out the Wrinkle Neck Mules…

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report

Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 9.9.14

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I think the hopper fishing is over for the week. Maybe the Trico’s too. Callibaetis? Oh they will be strong as well as the Psuedo’s. Hatch-O-Mania.

Look at the river stats and the weather before dressing for the day. Hot soup, hot coffee, hand warmers, and boat heaters. See, easy.

[forecast]

The hopper bite has been good enough to get you through the afternoon, until today. October Caddis may be the ticket if you choose to dry fly fish blindly. Or try the C’Baetis Spinner. Nymen’s Calli Cripple? All good dry fly choices as the weather turns toward the fall.

Big nymph show as you know in September. Hot flies include the ever popular Rainbow Czech Nymph. The Pearl Lightening Bug is key too. Then all the spin-offs like the LGM, S & M, Bubbleback BWO, PT, Red Headed Step Child, Indogo Child, Military May Black, Two-Bit Hooker, RS2’s, and more like them. Come in for the best techy tiny nymph fly selection in the Tri-County region.

Lots of sale stuff in the shop as well as a bundle of warm clothing for cooler days. Hats, gloves, hand warmers, free hot coffee, and waterproof SIMMS jackets. How about new waders to get you through the fall winter and spring. The Demo Rods are nearly gone but some good Loomis, Orvis, Echo rods still wanting to leave the cond=fines of the store.

Streamer dudes will get all hopped up this week. Start near the dam and strip freely. Not as easy as you head downstream. Go lower if you want some freedom from crowds. Lower middle? Just bee creative and pick your stretch based on the factors you appreciate. Solace, bugs, style, time of day, drinks…

Blackfoot River is a long shot as it can get really cold across the divide. Call for an update and a snow report?

This fall foreshadowing should pass and we will get a little more beautiful September weather. The Golden Eagles are moving through, the Osprey are leaving, the Mink are preparing for winter, the anglers are prepping fro greatness, and you are planning either your hunting or fishing trips for October and November.

Shop open daily at 7am and open late til 8pm for all your river needs. Forget something important? Stop in and we can help!

 

 

Swedes in Montana. Again.

Swedes in Craig MT. Again.

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Ulf and his cast of thousands was in Craig for a couple visits on the Montana tour.

Then Stefan was back in Craig with Martin again for his 5th visit. I think.

We see a number of Japanese guests on the river every year.

Simon straight outta the UK was here for his second stay in as many years.

The Canadians visit often. Really quite often as they escape the cold in the winter and take their fishing up one notch leaving the Bow behind and drifting down to the Mo frequently. Too many of these guys to mention but Peter immediately comes to mind. International destination? Yep.

Swedes in Craig MT. Again.

Visitors from the four corners of the earth come on out to prove themselves on the world class Missouri River.

Do they fish the Madison when they come? Yes. How about the Henry’s Fork. Yep. The spring creeks in Livingston MT. Sure. Do they love the Missouri River more than the rest? Certainly.

Consistency is key for year after year successes and we can definitely boast that trend. A facet of our great river that many cannot claim. None really.

Am I biased? Oh quite certainly.

I am so surprised at my amazement of the trout that come to the fly, come to the hand on this river. Year after year I could not be happier that I am able to be here, here fly fishing Montana’s Missouri River. A river that you can hon your fly fishing skills on. Shoot, improve if you want. It is a river that never gets too easy. It is a river that is built for all skill sets. It is a a resource that all can enjoy whether you are fishing or not.

Beginners to experts enjoy each and every twist and bend of the Missouri River. We have a couple more months of strong visitors here in Craig. I’m sure we will see anglers from all over the states and some regions outside of the U. S. of A. Bring it.

We love meeting guests new to the river and to Montana. If we have already met we look forward to seeing you again and if not we certainly look forward to greeting you here in Craig.

Missouri River & Blackfoot River Fishing Reports

Missouri River & Blackfoot River Fishing Reports 9.6.14

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Both rivers fishing well. Why wouldn’t they? We are heading into one of our favorite seasons. Maybe our favorite? Yours?

The weather is fading into a perfect fall pattern with daytime highs in Craig in the 70’s while across the divide the daytime highs are more like 60’s and low 70’s. Nightime lows will and have brought frost to the boat seats and the brush and trees are starting to show the colors of fall.

[forecast]

Missouri River Fishing Report 9.6.14

Nymphing is the star of this month. Most are up at the dam just whacking the trout. Good to great catch rates if you are into rowing around in circles. Many love this deal and it sure is fun. The best time of the year to engage in circus like fishing behaviors and we can facilitate this kind of day if you wish. It really is its. Rowing around with lots and lots of fish on. Jumping, running, laughing, landing. All can be had at the dam in late August and early September. Stop in for hints of dam success.

If you like fewer folks around and less of a circus scene, fish anywhere else. Wolf Creek, Craig, Stickney, and even to the lower reach. It too has been very busy so check out the traffic levels at your local fly shop before heading out in the morning.

Callibaetis, Psuedo’s, and OCtober Caddis can bring some attention to the surface oriented trout. Ants, beetles, and any attractor that you are comfortable with including hoppers can get your blood pressure higher with spectacular takes and super secret sucking takes too.

The streamer fans are getting a few looks fishing up to too. Not as many weeds, although they are quite tame this year, on the upper sections of river. with the sun high in the sky the flashy stuff that we love can be the key. Skiddish Smolts, R2R’s/Coffey’s Sparkle Minnows, Kreelex’s and the like are lighting it up. Time to get a new streamer line on that streamer rod too. Come in for the best streamer line selection on the Missouri River. We have 10+ models to choose from. RIO, Wulff, Airflo, Orvis all in stock and deep. To get you to the fish!

Fall lodging is filling. Look up your perfect property here on our Craiglodging.com website. The preferred properties include Craig Trout Camp with cabins right here in Craig. Check them out too on the loading site. Get your guided trip here with our outstanding full time guide staff. Get a guide for a couple days, wade fish a couple days, and rent an Adipose Driftboat too!

Missouri River & Blackfoot River Fishing Report
A nice place to be in the morning. Nice sky too.

Blackfoot River Fishing Report 9.6.14

A really nice tome to experience the Blackfoot River. Fishing here not eh Mo for more than a couple days? Try out the Blackfoot with one of our guides. They love it too. Fall colors come earlier as the temps not he wet side of the divide cool earlier int he fall. Near freezing air temps many mornings make this a great late morning and afternoon fishery perfectly designed for the angler heading over the hill.

October Caddis are available to the fish as well as hoppers, Hecuba’s the fall drake, some smaller mayflies, and a few other unidentifiable insects are out too. Crips and duns should entice some killer Cutthroat. As always the streamer fishing can be really good if you are willing to put in the effort. Not a terrible idea to bring 3 rods to the Blackfoot. While we love heading over to this ridiculously beautiful river for the change of pace we almost always defer to the dry fly. Why not. The Missouri provides technical fishing and while the Blackfoot can be techy we love tossing the larger dry flies. The Hecuba is one of those flies that will excite you and the trout.

Hoppers, Caddis, attractor dries, streamers, ants,a dn your terrestrial of choice can get you through the next month. September is quite possibly the best shot on this famed freestone.

We love the fall and it is coming here in September this year. The shop open daily @ 7am and til about 8pm. See you this fall in Craig.

 

 

Early Morning Rise Drift Boat For Sale

Early Morning Rise Drift Boat For Sale

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Early Morning Rise Drift Boat For SaleEarly Morning Rise Drift Boat For Sale at Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig Montana.

A good friend of our is letting this blue baby go. It has served him well the past several years and it is time to say good-bye.

The good news is it may be time for you to say Hello!

A great boat for all rivers as this high sided beauty is great for families, friends, and even you neighbor. You can fool him into rowing anytime. Right?

Why not have your neighbor buy it and you can fish from it anytime. Borrow it for long weekends and fish the BWO hatch this fall!

2007 16′ Early Morning Rise Drift Boat For Sale

  • Early Morning Rise Drift Boat For SaleElectric Winch
  • 4 Rod Holders
  • Cataract Counter Balanced Oars
  • Spare Oar
  • Heavy Duty Metalcraft Trailer with new spare tire
  • Tires in great shape
  • 4 Life Jackets

Good to go for your day on ay river in Montana. Cll Dick for more details or stop by the shop for a good look at this cherry 2007 16′ Early Morning Rise Drift Boat and Trailer.

Call Dick at 406/468-9345 or email him dryflymobi@earthlink.net

Early Morning Rise Drift Boat For Sale

 

 

Friday Foto September Evenings

Friday Foto September Evenings

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Getting on into the season and the days are shorter, the nights are longer, the mornings cooler, and the fishing pretty damn hot!

Will you be coming to the Missouri River this year?

We hope you are!

The fishing is good, the fellowship is great, and all we are missing is you.

Happy Friday. See you this weekend using the net a lot.

Cheers!

Headhunters Fly Shop Fishing Report

Headhunters Fly Shop Fishing Report September 4th

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The Missouri River is fishing quite well. The Blackfoot too. Which river should you fish? How about both.

John and Mark are heading over the hill today to fish the Blackfoot for a couple days to see the cool color changes, the high mountain experience, and try to fool a few Cutthroat trout along with the healthy populations of Rainbows and Browns. Maybe a Bull Trout or two as well? We will give yo an update on the fishing in the next couple days as to the success of the trip across the Continental Divide.

The fishing on the Mighty Missouri is heating up for fall! The flow plans are in as well and it looks like we will be seeing a few more cubic feet per second than normal. Will that affect the fishing? It may get better. It will cool the water sooner for sure and maybe bring the bigger BWO’s out of hiding sooner tan the previous years. Will it release those weeds earlier? Maybe.

Screen Shot 2014-09-04 at 6.32.28 AM

All reaches of the river are fishing well. The Dam? Unbelievable. Big trout on tiny midges and some larger PT and mayfly patterns too. Try anything bigger? Stop in the shop and ask our knowledgable staff for any up to the minute hot flies for your Missouri River success.

The streamer fellers are not yet cleaning ups s the weeds in the water column will not let too many casts through before picking up the junk. How are the weeds? Not bad at all. I would say roar less than the two previous years not eh Missouri River. Shake ’em off, cast them off, or just enjoy the day. Have not had anyone of my clients complain about them in the last two weeks.

Quieter for another couple days and then the folks do return for the good September fishing parade. Nymphing is always rock star status in Spetember but this year the late summer caddis and ants have made their way into the conversation big time. Blind dry fly fishing is very good and try your hand at that in the afternoons is you so desire. Lots of good stories about not only the ant and the caddis but the hopper too. Whatever bigger fly you like tie it on and go out there and cast!

[forecast]

Not too bad and cooler mornings have been keeping the water temps in the right region. Nicer afternoons in the mid 70’s this last week and more to come. We can see temps creep into the 80’s in September but judging the summer and the cooler temps all year long, we do not see that happening.

The shop is open daily at 7am for all your Missouri River trout fishing needs. Some sale hangover items including deep discounts on DEMO rods from SAGE, Loomis, Orvis, Echo and reels, lines, shitty flies, fly fishing accessories, shirts, some rain gear and the like. We’ll see you this weekend on the Mo or the Blackfoot!

Enjoy the fall here in Montana with Headhunters.

Boat Fly Review Of The Year So Far

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boatflies
Patterns from the island of discarded/forgotten flies.

Since the spring, the employees here in the shop have been saving all the discarded/forgotten flies that have been left in our rental Adipose drift boats. The picture accompanying this post shows the flies that we’ve accumulated thus far.

They offer a pretty good snapshot of how the fishing has been. There are rainbow Czech nymphs and sowbugs from the winter/spring. There are tungsten San Juan worms and wire worms from the spring’s high water period. There are purple comparadun and Stormchaser dries from the spring Baetis period. There’s a March brown in the mix as well. Then there are the pale morning dun emergers and rusty spinners of late spring/early summer, some caddis dries and emergers, a yellow sally nymph, a Buzzball, the ants of summer, the ever present Zebra midges, and some streamers in the mix as well.

If you look closely at the photo, you’ll probably recognize a pattern or two that you caught some fish on this year. Czech nymphs, Zebra midges, Little Green Machines, rusty spinners, pheasant tails, CDC and elk dries, Buzzballs, San Juans… These patterns are definitely mainstays here on the Missouri River. Maybe some of the flies in the picture even belonged to you once. A few of them look pretty chewed up…

While cleaning our rental boats in the next couple of months, we’ll probably find some more trico flies, a callibaetis or two, some baetis/pseudo imitations, hoppers, more caddis (hopefully some of the October variety), and the streamers of the fall. Maybe we’ll throw another picture up here on the blog as the collection grows.

What will you be fishing this fall on Montana’s Missouri River? Do you agree on the Boat Fly Review of the Year so far?

Make your own memories this fall here in Craig. Get on it and we’ll keep the coffee warm for you.

Missouri River Early September Fishing Report

Missouri River Early September Fishing Report

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September weather is here and the daytime highs are in the 70’s and sometimes 60’s. We would rather it go that route than get back into the 80’s. We are happy to move out of August and into the future. September and October are terrific months for fly fishing in Montana. Fewer folks around and damn good fishing.

4340cfs and 63F are the stats that you may be looking for. Weeds? Some. Some days lots. Is is what you let it be. Overhearing the conversations on Headhunters porch, Izaak’s dining room, and the well worn bar @ Joe’s it is not a topic of concern. It si what you make of it. Honest.

[forecast]

The fishing is really quite good. The nymphing is turning on as September is historically a fantastic and very consistent nymphing month. Not as many bugs, dries around this month but if you look, you can find a few trout sipping dry flies.

Callibaets make an appearance in September. Look for silty runs and keep your eyes peeled. All you need to see are a few spinners hovering overhead and tie on a cool spinner. An Adams can do the trick too.

Psuedo’s everywhere. Daily on some part or reach of the river. Look for rising trout that you may not be able to catch. Try all your favorite BWO patterns and then some other goofy shit. Don’t spend an hour on fish that will not eat. Unless you are into that sort of thing.

Some caddis around too. Look for them and try your luck blind fishing or sight fishing a caddis over Pseudo rising trout. Make good presentations early in the casting session for a shot at these fish.

Streamer fishing picks up as the weeds dissipate. Some are catching fish on the bigger subsurface bug but not too many stories yet. Up towards the dam is the key to success as you can stay out of the weed for a few miles.

The entire river is fishing as many are heading into the canyon and lower. Boats all over the river. There will be pressure up top for another couple weeks and then back to normal.

Trico’s are a thing in the morning still but the window may be short. An hour or two is about the norm. Pray for calm weather and the spinners will get to the water. If the breeze appears you amy want to get out your bobber.

Hoppers in the afternoon and in the mornings is you prefer are still an option. Some days we see really great participation by the fish, others not so hot.

Lodging available for the next couple months by calling the shop @ 406-235-3447. Craiglodging.com is another route if you want to preview our 20+ rental properties before you book. Guides available too for the next few months. Book today for the best options in regards to both guides and lodging.

The shop is open daily @ 7am. Tons of sale stuff on the rack from SIMMS, SAGE, Echo, RIO, Orvis, Howler Bros., Mountain Khaki, HH logo wear and much more.

September is a really nice month that many around here truly love. We’ll see you on the river.

Labor Day Rocking 80’s Video

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Loverboy for Labor Day today with Everybody’s Working for the Weekend from ’81.

It rules. Hope you had a fantastic Labor Day that did not include much labor. Fishing we hope.

Endure the first two minutes of rock and roll banter to get to the rock. And it does rock.

Loverboy straight outta Canadia  with this classic.

Turn it up. You know you love it.

 

Dewey, Ben, and Peter Go Golfing

Dewey, Ben, and Peter Go Golfing

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A cool article written by Dewey a Headhunters All Star about the weekly trial and tribulations of folks in the fishing game. Dewey is our resident Safety Expert. His background dictates he fills this position. Ben and Peter? Their backgrounds? College grads of course. Most fishing guides are before they find their way.

Guide the Guides

What do guides do after a day trip on the river? I have shared a cold beer on the deck and Joe’s with the guys and gals, but what’s up when they leave the Missouri River corridor and venture out.

A couple of guides, lets call them Ben and Peter, invited me to golf after guide trips. I had the opportunity to join them a couple a weeks ago.

We headed to my home course Eagle Falls in Great Falls with a cooler full of Busch Light. We arrived about 45 minutes before tee time so they let us go out the back nine.

Ben and Peter had never played the back nine at Eagle Falls and both were as excited as hungry brown trout during a Trico emergence. I thought to myself I get to guide the guides into new territory. I explained the layout of the tenth hole. I was guiding the guides.  I tee’d off and put it in the bunker. Ben and Peter hit the fairway. Then they both shot par on the first hole while I made bogey. I was off to a shaky start as a guide.

The next hole worked out a little better as I hit the fairway along with Ben and Peter. Now I was guiding. I think we all made par.

I soon found out these guys can play golf. They did not need any guiding from me other than which way to the next hole. The problem is they were to chill and having to much fun to care about the score. The way fishing should be!

We finished the round and went to Borries for dinner. I was pleasantly surprised  to find out the driver gets treated to dinner. I happened to be the driver.

That night was great and gave me a glimpse into how a Missouri River fishing guide unwinds. If a guide invites you to golf you ought give it a go.

By the way Ben and Peter golfed in flip-flops while I golf in tennis shoes. I now golf in flip/flops, it’s bitchin.

Dewey

Headhunters Fly Shop Big Labor Day Sale!

Headhunters Fly Shop Big Labor Day Sale!

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Headhunters Fly Shop Big Labor Day Sale today through Monday at the fly fishing superstore in downtown Craig Montana.

Tomorrow, Sunday is the BIG 50% OFF ALL FLIES in the store. And we have a bundle. Ninch says come on in and clean us out. Streamers, Hoppers, small techy Missouri River nymphs, and all the dry flies you’ll need for the Mighty Mo! Stock up for fall and winter. Spring? Yep get all those killer pink nymphs tomorrow!

Today through Monday we have killer deals on all sun shirts at 40% off! We have gone bonkers and lowered the prices even further than advertised. 40% off all sun shirts.

  • 50% off 12wt gloves and headwear
  • 40% all Logo’d Headhunters Hats
  • ECHO Demo reels with lines start at $39.95
  • Demo Rods from SAGE, Echo, Orvis, Loomis at rock bottom prices.
  • Spend $100 and get a FREE SHUTTLE COUPON!
  • Lots of used fly lines, reels, oars, and much more.
  • Tons of miscellaneous items for discounted prices.
  • BBQ Sunday for your shopping pleasure.
  • Mountain Khaki, SIMMS, SAGE, Rio, Loomis, Echo, Cortland, Airflo, Orvis, 12wt., Dr. Slick, Sharktooth, Howler Bros, Chaco, Fishpond and many more brands at end of the summer prices. Stop in this weekend for the best prices of the year!

Fly Sale Montana

 

Headhunters Fly Shop Big Labor Day Sale!
Come on out and get in on lowest prices of the year!
RIO Line Selector App for your IOS or Apple

RIO Line Selector App for your IOS or Apple

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RIO Line Selector App for your IOS or Apple
SAGE Rods above.

Can’t sleep at night until you have found the perfect fit for your SAGE Switch Rod? Ever need another fly line and your local fly shop has closed for the evening? The RIO Line Selector App may be for you. It will certainly let you sleep easy after you have navigated through the RIO App!

Introduced last month the RIO Fly Line Selector App has already helped many with questions about the right fly line for any rod make, fishing type, whether it be single or double handed the friendly fly line folks at RIO got you covered.

Got a rod from SAGE that you need help with? No worries. An off brand like Cabela’s? They have it. A two hander you stole from your neighbor? Yep. Got it.

Just follow the simple step by step process and you have the line you need within seconds. It’s just that easy.

Type in RIO Fly Line Selector at the App Store and download for free. Pretty fun stuff. Check it out today for afternoon entertainment at work. Your boss won’t care. He’s an angler too!

 

RIO Line Selector App for your IOS or Apple

New Breed Chicks Rule #769

New Breed Chicks Rule #769

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Helen rocking this big brown trout with Headhunters Guide Jared Edens Monday afternoon.

Just awesome Helen. Nice work.

Late August fishing is pretty damn good. Not many folks around. Quiet. Lots of space.

Just a few of these brownies hanging out waiting for a nice meal. Or at least a snack.

Look us up when in Craig.

New Breed Chicks Rule. You rule Helen.

Fly Tester by Flymen Fishing Co.

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The Fly Tester at work testing some streamers in the shop.
The Fly Tester at work testing some streamers in the shop.

The newest addition to the growing fly tying arsenal at Headhunters Flyshop is the Fly Tester by the Flymen Fishing Co.

Have you ever tied up a dozen flies of some new pattern only to find out that they didn’t perform the way you had hoped when you got them in the water? The Fly Tester was designed to allow the fly tier to avoid this situation by observing the action of flies immediately after tying them.

In a nutshell:  DESIGN → TIE → TEST → CATCH FISH

The tank is best suited for testing streamers, but will also show how nymphs  drift in current and how dries skate on the surface (think mouse patterns or skating October caddis).

To see the Fly Tester in action, you can stop by the shop, or check out this cool, short video below.

Key features of the tank include:

  • “BEST IN SHOW” Award Winner at the 2014 International Fly Tackle Dealer show
  • High quality, crystal-clear, acrylic construction
  • Bi-directional water flow with upper, middle, and lower sections that allow you to swim up to 3 different types of flies (streamers, nymphs, and surface flies) at the same time
  • Flow tube that can swim streamers up to 12″ in length
  • Slim line design that is lightweight (less than 8 lbs.) and with a small footprint for use at the fly-tying desk (height is 12” x width 3.5” x length 24”)

 

Next time you’re in the shop, feel free to bring in some of your homegrown flies to give them a swim in the tank. We’ve also been testing a lot of the flies from our bins and noticing some new things about how they truly perform in the water.

If you’re interested in getting a Fly Tester tank of your own, they retail for $285 and we’d be happy to order one for you.

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!

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”http://youtu.be/arZdeg_fL-I”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Andrea Larko, the Drake, and Headhunters Fly Shop

Andrea Larko, the Drake, and Headhunters Fly Shop

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Andrea Larko Art @ www.andrealarko.com
Andrea Larko Art @ www.andrealarko.com

If you have not seen the Art of Andrea Larko yet you should be soon.

You have seen it on the shirts of Headhunters around the river and the far places our Missouri River anglers travel.

We have a couple clothing items of Andrea Larko art donning both men’s and women’s shirts here at Headhunters.

Andrea Larko, the Drake, and Headhunters Fly Shop

John found her art surfing the interweb this last year and contracted her for some killer art. A triptych, or polyptych, of insects screened on FreeFly bamboo shirts. It really is some cool stuff.

The Drake found here interesting enough to publish this article in the latest mag in their Scuddlebut section.

Next trip into the shop check out the Andrea Larko art shirts that only Headhunters carries. Yes, a one off original Headhunters sungear.

Andrea Larko, the Drake, and Headhunters Fly Shop
Bamboo Freefly shirts at HEadhunters. Mayfly, Stonefly, and Caddis

Missouri River Rain Day

Missouri River Rain Days

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Liquid Sunshine falling from the sky this morning. Rained most of the day yesterday too.

So what should you do? Put on your rain-gear and go outside. Just what any normal sound minded angler would do.

The NOAA Weather Service states: Rain. High near 54. North northwest wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Missouri River Rain Days
Missouri River Water Temps Falling

Trico’s today? Probably not. Probably not tomorrow either.

Hoppers? No, not really an option.

Streamers? Totally your gig today. Or give nymphing a shot.

The water temperatures have cooled with this dousing of cooler wetter weather. No worrying about getting too warm this August now. Not that we were, but it is out of the question after this weather event passes through. Temps currently holding at the 62F mark. The flows are stable at 4320cfs and all is well. Shoot not too many more degrees below the 62 mark and we may see some BWO’s? Psuedo’s for sure.

Shoot, maybe a good Psuedo hatch today! Keep your eyes open, protected from the rain and have at ‘er.

5 Tips to Keep you Dry and Warm during the Deluge

  1. Wear the best rain gear money can buy. We like the SIMMS Stuff for sure. The Slick, Acklins, G4, the Bass Jacket…or have your buddy wrap you in Saran Wrap. Use Duct Tape for the seams.
  2. Fish under the bridge all day. The fish don’t care, they are all wet anyhows!
  3. Bring lots of hot coffee, soup, and/or Chicken Broth.
  4. Whiskey!
  5. Renegade fish from the car. Wade fishing is good when you have the protection of the car, the heater, and the option to go to Joe’s, stand by the fire, and tell some lies.

Toss streamers all day long.is the last one. May will be doing this all day. Good results in the rain. We love the rain and the cooling of the river. Feels good.

As for the dry flies and the Trico’s. We’ll see how they fare during this rain day. They are not done by any stretch so keep it tuned here for an update after the clouds part. Looks good for the front end of this coming week.

[forecast]

That is all for this morning. Enjoy your weekend. Keep warm, and wear some killer rain gear. Shop is open daily @ 7am for all your Missouri River Montana Fly Fishing needs. Streamers, warm layers, raingear/waders from SIMMS and Orvis, rainpants, warm hats, and free hot coffee.