Some random gorgeous stream in the GNP.
Lots of folks gracing the park this last week but it seems pale in comparison to the numbers they pack in Yellowstone Nat’l Park.
Damn pretty. If you want to take a day off after fishing for the last 12 days, then head on up to Glacier Nat’l Park.
Enjoy this Friday Foto and we will see you this cooler and wetter weekend ahead.
[forecast]
Sunny Hodge on today’s New Breed Chicks Rule.
Headhunters Guide Jared Edens put the boat in position for Sunny to get the job done. Nice work Sunny.
New Breed Chicks do rule as these two beauties were caught on the dry fly.
Cool. Very cool.
Want to make your own New Breed memories. Bring your wife or girlfriend or daughter for a fly fishing trip to central Montana.
Even better, leave the boys at home and come out on your won.
Cool. Very cool.
New Breed Chicks do Rule here on the fabulous fishy Missouri River.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Here’s a neat video from our bud and famous Montana artist Derek DeYoung. You get to watch the process of a DeYoung painting in creation, and Derek shares a little story about Redfish, one of his – and our – favorite species to chase. Check it out, and make sure and go to Derek’s website where you can order all sorts of cool fly-fishy art and paraphernalia. You can also get some DeYoung gear at Headhunters,[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/103727537″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Ulf visits the Mo every year. Now.
It is certainly on his list of rivers to fish in the States.
We love seeing Ulf on the Missouri and getting the Swedish version of things. He also likes to laugh.
We like that about Ulf!
Here is a bit of video captured under the shadows of Holter Dam earlier this summer.
Thanks Ulf. Can’t wait to see you in 2015. Check out his Blog MadTrout here.
Under the dam. from MadTrout on Vimeo.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]We had a visit from well known angler, photographer and tackle rep Jon Covich last week. Jon was taking his boys on a fly fishing trip through Montana before they had to go back to school. I asked these boys if they were excited to go back to school, and they both just dropped there heads and shrugged. Adair could learn something from these two. She likes school.
You’ve seen Jon’s photo’s on the pages of just about every fly fishing magazine over the years. You also may know him as a member of the Flywater Travel team. To see more of his photo’s go to www.joncovich.com, and here’s the direct link to his blog post about his trip.
Here’s a few of his great shots of the Missouri River.
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Not too bad at all. While the other dozen freestone rivers in Montana are fishing quite well we are fishing pretty well too. Hoppers get all the headlines but we have a damn strong Trico hatch nearly every day. They hatch every day, sometimes not as full a hatch as others. Also you can get the Pump Fake, as John Arnold calls it, where the bugs show well, then move into the next county. Or something.
Nymphing has been pretty damn abysmal as of late. What is happening and when it will change is a mystery to most including us. Water temps are not out of line and the Trico production is phenomenal. So…?
Nymphing will return as we tear the pages of the calendar off sliding into September.
Hoppers do get the headlines as some really nice Brown Trout fall for the meaty flaring fly. Chubby’s, Morrish, Mongo’s, Dave’s, Whitlock’s, Peanut’s are all good choices for the remainder of August.
Callibaetis have started to show a little. Cooler air temps next month will bring this oft missed severely localized larger mayfly to our attention.
The best nymphing month of the summer. Historically speaking. Many look forward to this generally hatch less month as a chance to get back behind the bobber. Kids are back in school and the parents prepare for an Autumn Get-A-Way. A relatively busy month on Montana’s Missouri River as fish counts go up.
Some Pseudocloen activity in the beginning of the month followed by daily Pseudo events as we near October. They can just drive a guy nuts. Most smart folks including Missouri River Fishing Guides when seeing a Pseudocloen Pod just keep on rowing. Don’t look back either. A good rule of thumb is to stop and anchor. Cast at them for 5 minutes or 1 fly change. If nothing happens, no eats, no refusals no nothing happens…move. Immediately. O
Or stay for a couple hours. Your choice.
If you are in need of a few killer Pseudo patterns stop in the shop and sift through our substantial Pseudo section. Smoke Jumpers, RS2’s, CDC Emergers, Black Posted Duns, and several parachutes patterns to keep you busy the entire Baetis Pseudocloen Season!
The aforementioned Callibaeits are present in specific silty runs. The rule of thumb is if you see a couple flighting about, put one on. A Parachute Adams will fit the bill but there are more patterns out there for cavorting with Callibaetis. Tilt Wings, Harrop’s Callebaetis Spinner, Callebaeits Flog, Harrop’s D & D Cripple, and many more.
Hoppers can stay around for a while depending on how the nighttime air temps present themselves. If we have a bunch of below zero evenings we will see them disappear rapidly. All terrestrials will rise and fall wight he conditions. Ants are players about 8 months of the year. Honest. It is never a bad idea to play the ant through your favorite run.
The October Caddis Trichoptera Dicosmoecus shows in the nymphal form this month. Try swinging one through a sexy riffle and see what happens. They are actually in play in late August so do not discount your big orange buddy this fall.
Historically we would have this late caddis session too. But probably will not happen this year based on the caddis progression or lack thereof this summer. Keep it here for hatch events as they occur.
One of our favorite months here in Montana. If we could have 6 months of October, we would! Fall fishing is fishing at it’s finest and the Missouri River shines for 31 days in the 10th month annually.
October Caddis, BWO’s in 3 sizes, good streamer fishing, fantastic nymphing, and fewer folks make this a month for angling all-stars. October is month upon we get visitors from the fishing industry testing gear for the upcoming years and out of work Montana fly fishing guides from Bozeman, the Bighorn River, Whitefish, Livingston, and Missoula. You know if a gaggle of trout bums are here…there might be some action you may want to participate in. No?
Streamer fanatics come out of the woodwork while the dry fly anglers stalk actively feeding fish on acres of DFO Flats. Book your lodging now for this month as the premier properties fill fast. Check out CraigLodging.com for the full line up of Headhunters Rentals Properties.
So that is it. The fall is on its way ash the fall fishing will heat up with the changing of the colors. Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers are all on the docket for fall fishing on your favorite fall river in Craig Montana. Give us a shout if you have questions about the fishing, hatch schedules, lodging, or guided fishing trips. We love to talk bout fishing the Missouri River.
We are all about this hot new sunscreen product we bought in the store last month.
It goes on easy, has a non greasy feel, and smells a little like coconut. I’s say we dig it!
Lots of different sizes and sun proofs from 30SPF to 70SPF. Most of the guides are applying the 70 while the rest of the gang has been opting for something less like the 50SPF or the 30SPF. The easy spray on version is gaining strength with anglers as you do not have to foul your hands or fly.
Small and large bottle available. Try the lip shit too. Banana and Grapefruit flavors will keep you smacking all day long.
Sun Bum Tips
Check out all the cool media stuff at the Sun Bum Blog
A few more tips for your sun protection the remainder of the summer. You know you should rock the sunscreen in the winter too. The UV Rays are still around!
Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection with Parasol 1789
Water Resistant / 80 Minustes. Highest possible rating.
Skin Cancer Foundation / Approved and recommended
Paraben Free / Does not contain this preservative
PABA Free / Safe for kids and will not irritate your skin
Oil Free / Will not clog your pores or cause breakouts
Sheer Formula / To ensure it goes on nice and smooth
Hypoallergenic / Will not cause common allergenic reactions
Anti-Aging / Contains the powerful antioxidant Vitamin E
No CFC’s / Will not cause damage to the ozone layer
Not Tested on Monkeys / Only on fly fishing Guides
Yep. It’s good.
Ran over the hill yesterday for a change and we were all happy with the decision. Iowa brothers Toby and Tim fishing with HH Guide Mark Raisler had a ball changing it up by heading over the divide. Headhunters guides have been fishing the Blackfoot nearly daily in the recent past and that will continue for the month ahead.
Why not fish a little moving water without weeds? Here for a few days? Why to give the Blackfoot a shot. Damn pretty scenery that not only looks good but smells good too. It smells like the westside. It smells like Cutthroat.
The fishing is pretty good with dry flies being the primary tool. Saw some Spruce Moth action, a few PMD’s, and some grasshoppers. Fished all of them too. Toss in a caddis pattern or two and we made it a great day.
Need a change? Book a Headhunters guide for a trip over the hill.
Brian O’Keefe said it was the best rod at the show. The best rod he had ever cast.
Generally whatever Brian O. of Catch Magazine says about fly rods, if you have seen him cast you would know, we tend to agree with.
John brought in the SAGE Salt based on two things. B.O.’s comment and John’s belief that you will agree.
Get a SAGE Salt for you upcoming saltwater trip to the Keys, the Seychelles, the Bahamas, the Biloxi Marsh, the Delta, the Vineyard…you may want a tool as good feeling and precise as the SAGE Salt.
It’s fun to cast too.
Come in and try one out after wandering Montana’s Missouri River.
Sage: Perfecting Performance from Hammerquist Studios on Vimeo.
With all the water Montana has received this season, stream closures due to warm and low flows are not on most people’s mind. We do have a few however, and as they are all in our area, you should be made aware. Read the descriptions closely for the exact stretches and times that are closed.
Hoot Owl Restriction
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
From Highway 434 Bridge downstream 41 miles to the confluence with the Missouri River north of Craig (8/8/2014)
View Water Body Report
Hoot Owl Restriction
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Smith River from Eden Bridge to the confluence of North and South Forks of the Smith River.(8/8/2014)
View Water Body Report
Hoot Owl Restriction
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Sun River from mouth of Muddy Creek to Highway 287. (8/8/2014)
View Water Body Report
None of these will drastically affect anyones fly fishing right now, though there are a few anglers who might hit some of these on foot right now. Fortunately, there are plenty of other wade fishing opportunities in the area if you like to get away from the crowds on the big rivers. The upper creeks on the Blackfoot River are a good place to start. Streams in the Little Belt range are another good place to look.
LINK to Montana FWP closure list
August is here. We are here. The trout are here.
Mostly.
The upshot of the week is this. It is short and bittersweet.
Mornings can be really great. Strong hatches riverside. The most pressure is on the upper. If you want some solace from the rest fish below Craig somewhere. If you want even more? Fish below Mid Canon. If you like the lower reach, fish there. You will have good to great Trico fishing if the wind does not blow too hard and send the spinner fall to north to Great Falls.
The thought is that Trico’s may hatch throughout the rest of August. Maybe into Septemebr. That is the historical pattern. Whether Mother Nature follows that path, we just do not know. But we think it should be strong for another 2-3 weeks.
Spinners are the key to your success. Try another non Trico pattern if you wish. It can be the key to Trico success. Or just keep tossing different and odd Trico flies until the fish cooperate. A sunken Trico can do wonders as well. Zebra?
No, not really. Actually not at all. Fish caddis patterns with success here on the Missouri but not for the Caddis Hatch man. Maybe next year. P.S. You want a boat load of caddis flies for cheap?
No, not really. Well sort of. The nymphing for most has been pretty piss poor. I’m not saying that if you drown a worm, or a Zebra, or a Little Green Machine, or Juju Baetis, or some sort of Caddis Pupa you will not find success. Because you will find a few. But we are familiar with net use when nymphing and that is certainly not the case this last couple weeks.
Moments of brilliance yes. A total annihilation? No, not really.
Come in and wee the latest news here int eh shop and we can put you on the right track. The latest info is found here locally from those who have there finger on the pulse of the Missouri.
It will turn around soon? We think? Every day is truly different. Not much consistency. The month of September is one of our finest nymphing months and it bleeds into October and November. So hang on to your hats, your bobbers, your net. It will bounce back.
Good to great to not so good to terrible. All things heard in the bar ad in the shop. We love to fish the big fly here as so often we are squinting to see the tiny dry fly. So fishing a size 10 or better is a pretty good day/deal. Pink and purple continue to rule with red, gold, and green creeping up the scale.
Ants and beetles are making some waves as well. Blooms, Arrick’s Blooms Hopper and Cricket seem to be coaxing some trout into making bad decisions. Small and large flies are what you should be tossing. Ambiguous? Yep. You catch ’em on what you are tossing. Fishing the middle river is the key. Not all fish lay on the bank. Some do. We like to look for 18″-36″ of moving water and present the bug. Wait, twitch, wait, wait some more and watch it get sucked.
Kiss it. Lick it. Swallow it. Hammer it. Suck it. Eat it.
We have a fantastic Hopper selection at the shop. Well over 120 bins stuffed full of foamies, hair wings, and the like. The ants box has some jewels in it too.
Flows are holding at a respectable 4500cfs and the water temps are fluctuation between 64F and 68F daily. Not much movement above the 68F mark this year. July is our hottest month here in central Montana so we do not expect there to be any further upwards movement in regards to Missouri River water temps.
[forecast]
We are approaching the end of summer as we move into Autumn. The colors will change and the Baetis will come. Hopefully we get a big October Caddis showing too. Cross your fly fishing fingers and we will see you in the fall. It really is nice as the days become shorter and the fish friskier!
Now is the time to book your late summer and fall fly fishing trip to the Missouri River in Craig Montana. Check out CraigLodging.com for housing and Headhunters for all your guiding and rental boat and rod, reel, and wader needs. Don’t let the fall fly fishing season slip by you. Book today.
Headhunters Fly Shop open daily @ 7am and well into the evening hours closing @ 9pm. Stop in for your Sun Bum sunscreen, new RIO In Touch Fly Lines, hoppers galore, GINK, SAGE Method fly rods, Dr. Slick, Howler Bros, SIMMS fall wear, toques, and sungear too.
A couple pigs from Missouri River Angler Graeme Sharp.
This kid can fish. I am only posting a couple of the images he sent. They are all big ones on dry flies.
Nice work Graeme. Look forward to your work this coming year.
You booked your trip already!?
Future Fly Fishers Rule.
I think Brett sees a Unidentified Flying Object.
Or he thinks he does.
Or Just some Trico’s.
Or just too many days guiding.
Great mornings here on the Mighty Missouri . We dig August because of the the light pressure, the Trico’s, and hoppers in the water.
It’s hot, the nymphing sucks…but the fellowship is good amongst anglers. Fishermen are perpetual optimists.
Happy Sunday to you all!
[forecast]
It si pretty good for the ‘ol hopper on the Mo.
Well, not too good for Mr. Hopper himself. But pretty good for those tossing them in the water.
We got lots. Lots in the bushes, lots clacking on the banks, and a few in the river. The Missouri is not the world’s best hopper river, but we get by.
Trico’s are still rolling in big numbers most every morning and that is the focus until the last spinner is inhaled by some persnickety Rainbow Trout.
Then it’s time for a quick bite and cold Diet Coke. Tie on the hopper and hope!
I love having hopper affairs during the late summer. It is the finest. Many love the small sipping daintiness of the trico’s…I love the gulp a a good hopper eat. It is really cool.
Get your RIO Perception fly line and get after it. The head on that classic hopper type fly lone is just right for picking up 25′ and chucking it back at the bank. A RIO Grand is not too bad either. But the Perception is our favorite late summer fly line. Check it out next time you are loading up on hoppers. Try a new line too. Just like Christmas in August.
We are digging the foams here in Craig. Get yourself a bottle of GINK, douse the foamie, and watch it get eaten!
Staying a couple days? Try one day on the Missouri and one day not eh Blackfoot across the divide. A perfect two day plan!
Cool article and photo essay in the latex Hatch Magazine Online about your fly shop in Craig.
Chad Schmukler puts this great mag together with photogs and writers from around America and beyond. High quality photos and content make this a must read this summer…or winter if you are so inclined. Or just busy trying to fool those pesky Trico feeders. Anytime is great time to check out this blog style online fishing mag. Politics, destination pieces, tips, product reviews, and kick ass photo essays from gals like former Headhunters All-Star Jess McGlothlin.
Check out the 50 photos of Craig, it’s characters, and Headhunters Fly Shop.
Cool Chad and Jess. Nice work!
Check out the article here Hatch Magazine Missouri River Rowdies by Jess McGlothlin.
Late August Missouri River Flies that are hot this week and let’s hope this coming week too. The fishing in the morning is damn good if you are in the right spot with the right fly. What is the right fly? Some of these below are sure to get the job done.
Hopper fishing has been good with your favorite generic terrestrial flies coming on strong too. Trico’s still really strong. Saw one of the biggest Trico hatches and consequent spinner falls of the year on Friday. Saturday too? Maybe.
Row 1 top to bottom: Donkey Kong Hopper, Parachute Hopper, Morrish Hopper Pink, Burk’s Spent Hopper.
Row 2: Rainbow Czech Nymph, Military May Black, Tailwater Sowbug, Harrop’s Soft Hackle Bead Thorax Black, Magic Fly Tungsten BWO.
Row 3: Black Zebra Midge, Beadhead Poly Wing Emerger Black, Little Green Machine, Juju Baetis, Purple Lightening Bug.
Row 4: Arrick’s Ant, Glitter Ant, Fire Beetle, Storm Chaser.
Row 5: Snow Shoe Midge, Hi-Vis Trico, Passages Magic Fly Trico, Two Wing Trico Spinner, Purple Craze.
Hot flies in the shop this week. Hot flies on the water too. What flies work for you? Only you can know that secret. If you need a helping hand or suggestions on what is working don’t be afraid to swing and and have a cup of coffee and peruse the Headhunters fly bins. It really is fun fly shopping.
Ninch, Sara, Julie, John, Braden, Max, and Mark are ready to talk fly fishing. See you this late August on the quiet Missouri River.
Your Friday Foto here on the fly fishing blog that contains daily content.
Not every post contains meat, but some do.
The fishing here on the Missouri River is still pretty fantastic. Good times in the morning hours and good times until the sun gets too high. Then she slows a nit. The evening bite? Not too great. You can yard in a couple if you give it your best shot.
Until tomorrow. Thanks for reading. TGIF. Hope you are fishing today. Or tomorrow.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Today is Julie’s Birthday. You can’t wish her well face to face, because she is floating down the Elk River in BC (in the front of the boat, of course), sticking big Cutties on dries. Single dries.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6143″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Julie making the right cast (above) and setting the hook into another big one (below).[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6144″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Julie has been on fire this week, not only catching lots of fish, but lots of big fish. Here she is with our good buddy and longtime Elk River guide Darcy Richardson. They say these fish have shoulders. I would agree. At the top, guide Sebastien Stewart is showing off another big shouldered Cutt that Julie caught.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6146″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]The Elk is a fabulous fishery, but the scenery is a big part of a fishing trip here. It’s incredible. Plenty of splashy waves to run, here with Darcy on the sticks. Also, it looks like it’s been a while since they’ve been in this spot, but they been in this spot. Julie is fine with the fact that these bear tracks are a little old.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6149″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”6148″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”6153″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Our trip to Fernie, BC was great from start to finish. Great food as well, including some outstanding Sushi, Indian Food and great unique Mexican street food. Special thanks to Paul, Darcy and Sebastien at the Elk River Guiding Co. who made our trip memorable. These guys get down to the Missouri a bit as well, and you may run into them around the shop.
Speaking of the shop, thanks for all you do to make Headhunters run smooth, Julie.
Happy Birthday![/vc_column_text][us_image image=”6155″ size=”full” link=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Future Fly Fisher Hayes straight outta North Carolina today on this very fishy blog.
Hayes was out with his grandmother for a week in early August and experienced his first wester fly fishing experience.
Headhunters Fly Guru Ben McNinch spent an hour at the Craig Casting Club showing Hayes the casting ropes he needed to follow. Hayes got that casting stuff pretty easily.
Then he spent the day with Headhunters Guide Extra-Ordan-Aire Jared Edens plying his casting skills on the Mighty Missouri River. How about that. A good week all together. Grandma, casting, catching, in the west! Awesome.
Thanks for visiting us here in Craig MT. Hayes you are
Lots and lots of bobber on the market today. Lots of choices.
Strike Foundry was created by Chef Marko to increase sensitivity and sight. The two most important aspics of any good strike indicator. Feel and vision. Period.
Strike Foundry Stealth Indi’s are just that. Stealthy and highly sensitive to subsurface movement of the fly.
There have been may bobbers that have down the pike in the recent past. Thing-A-Ma-Bobber held high court for some time but there is movement in the Indi World for sure.
Strike Foundry is pushing hard. Easy to throw, extremely lightweight to detect even micro movements from trout living and eating below the surface. Sometimes on the bottom. Check them out on your next trip through the store in Craig.
In Line. The simple and easy route. Not too good for our fishing here on the Missouri River as we need to detect subtle indicator movements. But it is one of the 3 ways to rig.
Loop it over like you would any similar bobber. Easy, easy to move, easy to detect strikes. Hit ’em hard! Double it if you want it to stay longer. Loop it over, then twist 1/2 turn, and loop again. Easy peasy.
Right Angle style is our favorite way to rig the Strike Foundy Indicator. Using the gray portion as the bottom of the rig, tie in 2 pieces obviously at right angles to each other and fish away. This style of rigging gives you the ability to see the direction of the fly in relationship to the fly line. Works perfectly.
I enjoy the Strike Foundry Bobber because of the Right Angle usage. Super sensitive for the most discerning of indicator anglers. It rules. Lots of color ways coming to the shop soon. I even hear there is a special color way coming…more on that later.
Strike Foundry is headed up by our friend from the Driftless Region in SW Wisconsin.A dream to get a better indicator not he market. Good work Marko. We love the product.
Stop in and see the bobber selection at Headhunters which is extensive and will include the Strike Foundry Indicator this week!
Check out the Strike Foundry Website here and the Strike Foundry Facebook Page here. Enjoy!
Today we talk about the individual charged with helping the angler in the bow of the boat. The angler, albeit important, does not hold the singular responsibility in the vessel. The guy holding those 9′ overpriced sticks is the guy holding all the cards. He can make or break your day. That person can put you in the spots, or just drift by and watch. Which category do you fall into?
The more often the oars are in contact with the water, the better!
So often you see boats floating down the river without any plan. Occasionally you see boats spinning in circles and you certainly know what is happening there. A rookie rower. We have all been there. Just trying to keep the boat off of the shore. It is truly frustrating and experience is the best teacher. Also watch how other conduct themselves behind the sticks. You can learn ton from watching a rower with stealthy moves.
You know the guy. You may have fished with some sort of rowing guru. It feels, looks, and is like he or she is not doing a thing. Nothing in fact. It is surgical how efficient professional or great rowers can be. Small soft movements with the oars. No hard and deep thrashing about. The sign of a new rower is one who makes took large or gross movements and is quite loud with his oar strokes. The good rower makes a number of smaller movements with soft oar entry and exit movements. Quiet is the theme. Efficiency is the game.
One who executes a plan for the future, for downriver, who is engaged in the fishing game. A good rower is constantly communicating with the angler, or anglers, and is willing to work with them. We so often see the rower pushing, pulling, spinning, or the worst of all of the rowing movements…nothing! Nothing is not good. I call it this style Wings Up! Don’t be that guy.
Having the oars out of the water for any length of time is considered evil by those who like to catch fish. That means that the rower is not interested in using the other tool laying next to him. The net. No interest at all. Many think that the rower does not carry that much responsibility. Wrong. He is the guy that cries the key to angling success. Whether that be drift fishing, common on the Missouri River, or posting up on rising trout.
When posting up on rising fish the rower plays a big role too. How, when, where are all factors in your angling success. Those who come in hot and drop the anchor like dropping a refrigerator out of the sky…don’t catch as many fish. sneaking up on the trout proves to be a solid technique. Alerting the enemy that you are in the neighborhood is never a good idea.
You are not doing your buddy a solid just by sitting your ass down in the middle seat. No, not true. You actually have to do something with those sticks hanging out of the boat.
Those sticks are oars my friend. To put your fishing buddy, the feller in the bow, into a situation where upon he gets to use the net…that rubber basket that you need to employ more often.
The rower, row boy, or oar boy needs to participate in the process or get out of the center and move into the back. The back seat in the drift boat is the seat where nobody is expected to do anything other than pitch his two buddies in the front two seats shit. And lots of it. That is the primary role of the dude in the back seat.
In the back seat you can drink beer, nap, take photos of wildlife, steal flies from the rower, clean your fly line or any other task you desire. The back seat is the privileged seat. The King’s Chair is the rear seat. Many think it is the front seat. Wrong. The front seat is the seat for work. Do work son. The back seat is for those educated anglers who want to watch until the fishing gets really good. Then the feller in the rear can jump into the game sighting non-activity for the last several hours. A good line at this point is something like “I’m just gonna make a few casts at this giant sipping Brown trout little Rainbow.”
Back to the rowing, the rower, the man in charge. You have to use the oars to get your buddies into the trout. You have to participate in the fishing game. Only if you dig your friends. The folks that cat h the most fish from a boat are the folks that have somebody helping along the way. If you are a fellow that uses the boat for transportation then disregard this wordy blog.
Those who keep the oar blades from the water, those that are afraid to make a few strokes for the sake of their fellow fishermen, those who think it is cool to make your friends cast a long, long ways to the trout, those who like seeing the bobber swim from the front of the craft to the back rapidly your friends want you to recognize that you may be the type of guy I am speaking about.
Your friends do not want to fish with you all that often if you suck at rowing. If you hear something like this at the boat ramp when you say that you would like to start out the day rowing “No Bob, I’ll start rowing today. Besides you rowed a lot last time. Why don’t you fish today and I’ll row. My treat.” If you hear something like this, you should question your skills behind the sticks.
Translation:
Those are all statements that should make you understand that your buddies may not want to continue your fishing relationship. Honest.
You know the truth hurts sometimes. Those type of comments should be a wake up call for you. That is the nice way of saying insert insult here.
Never front row. We see this all the time. Fellers pushing downstream for no reason. Why would you take away the drift. Drift, while drift fishing, is everything. Having the bugs move at the same rate as the current helps those trout buy into our program. Back stokes and back rowing are what we do oat here on the Missouri. Slowing the boat down for more presentations and to get the bobber to move at the same rate as the water.
Less is more. A few strokes are generally all you need to make a move. To move the boat a couple feet. Big deep and hard strokes are for dodging rocks. Here on the Mo we do not have those issues. Here we want slow and gentle movements to deal with our technical current lines.
Point the nose away from danger and back row. A good lesson for those in faster water too. Point the nose, the bow, at danger and back away. Rowing toward bad stuff is just that. Bad.
Dip the oars into the water. They won’t melt and neither will you. You may even hear some applause from your buddies. They may even pick up the tab at the bar for you. They may even invite you to go fishing with them again. Try it. Do it. Embrace it.
There you have it. If you are the type of fellow who does not row well, listen to your buddies. Try harder. Engage the oars with the water. It is OK. We all sucked at one point but those who are quite comfortable at rowing are so for a good reason. They practiced and learned from others.
Watch how those pros work the oars and blades. Look at seat position. Look at how often the oars come in contact with the water. It is often. The oars never stop moving. It is more of constant minor movements that get the job done. No drastic stokes digging water deeply. All surface strokes with purpose.
Stay dry longer. Longer than ever? That’s what the fellows at SIMMS are saying.
Are you ready for fall yet? We are not. But we are beginning to prepare ourselves for what Mother Nature brings us in the ways of weather.
I do know from experience that you certainly do not want to be left out on the cold and rainy baetis afternoons fishing the Missouri River. October can be cruel. November with BWO’s popping before your eyes…comfort and a good reach cast come to mind.
SIMMS is all hopped up on the Gore-Tex Pro Shell and the G4 Pro, and we agree. Drier longer. A damn good thing for anglers.
We like to keep dry as well. The Mo fishes all 12 months which is different than most every other river on this Big Green Earth. Not many rivers can claim fishable waters for that length of time. We can. The shop is open daily, nearly 365 days a year.
So we get used to fishing in inclement weather. Hard to believe while it is 97F as I write this rain oriented product article. But she is hiding around the corner. We generally see snow falling from the freaking sky buy the second week in September. Not much. Usually.
So we prepare earlier than we would like. Hand warmers back in the boat. Stocking up on propane bottles for boat heaters. Cleaning the soup from last spring from the Thermos…yuck! Hope it’s not Cream of Chicken!
Gloves, warm hats, SIMMS G3 Waders and your best rain jacket. In this case the G4 Pro.
All the bells and whistles come with the King of all SIMMS Rain Gear. It is truly the leader of the pack.
We also like the SIMMS Bulkley for its waterproofness and its built in warm liner. Awesome. The SIMMS Acklins is appreciated by all that try it and the SIMMS Slick for those wanting bombproof longer shitty weather garment.
We have all you may need for the fall here fishing Montana’s Missouri River. A fully stocked fly shop with Craig Montana’s only SIMMS Dealer. Shirts, pants, waders, wading boots, hats, gloves, and many other killer SIMMS accessories available here.
As the Trico’s wane in September you can start fantasizing about cool foggy Montana mornings with October Caddis and Baetis flies on your brain. We are starting to think along those lines…
New Breed Chicks Rule & Future Flyfishers today on the Headhunters Blog. Audrey helping Dad with this nice Missouri River Rainbow.
Good friends and original Headhunters clients Bret and Sara Childers from up north are now bringing several generations of the Childers clan. Father and Mother Childers and now their daughter Audrey.
Here is a note that Sara dropped us this morning.
Hello Headhunters,
The Blackfoot was good today. Monday.
A few folks on it but we beat the crowds early this morning.
Chubby’s, caddis, moths, and assorted attractors ruled the day. Headhunters has plenty of Blackfoot River patterns to get you through the day. Ninch, our fly guru, lived and fished the Missoula waters for years before making his way across to the arid side of the divide. We got all those cool floaty flies. Nymphs too. You want to try out your hand at streamer fishing the B-Foot? Got ’em in stock.
Lots of sun, eagles, vultures, and killer Montana birds filled the silence between the trouts.
Brookies, Browns, Rainbows, and Cutty’s all on board and in the net.
Big ones? No, not really. But all the same, a good time.
The Mo holds bigger trout. Blackfoot holds the beauty. Hands down.
Change up your itinerary and include the Blackfoot River this coming trip. We can help.
Tie in dinner and a few drinks in Missoula too. A cool overnighter to finish your trip to central Montana. Missoula is a kick and a real Montana town with amenities that you will like. Great food and really fun folks. Shopping, the confluence of many rivers, a University, west side living.
Just do it. You certainly will enjoy it.
Dave brought this new Adipose right from Helena.
First stop the Missouri River.
Nice choice boys. Eric has Ro at home in Rapid City SD. He now wants one. Boat envy. The Adipose Flow.
Dave used to rock a Clackacraft…he bequeathed it to Black Hills Fly Shop owner Hans in Rapid City. Good deal for both parties.
Nice work Dave. You got the boat cover, the big boy Black Dog trailer, the killer floor mats, all the cool shit.
Check out Tracey and Mike at Adipose Boatworks in Helena.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Yep we did it. Team Headhunters went to the ballpark last night and rented a Suite for the staff and the guides. Fun was had by all.
The Voyagers lost 8-3. No worries. We ate well and tipped a couple beers back.
We love to hang with the gang both at work and off the water. Really a nice group of folks around the shop and on the river.
Dewey threw out the first pitch and it bounced off the fathers glove. Huh?
A few photos from last nights festivities for your Saturday.
Also a Don Henley Boys of Summer Video. Happy Sunday to you all!
Don Henley – The Boys Of Summer from Krystian Feledyn on Vimeo.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”s” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”s” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”6065,6064,6063,6062,6061,6060,6059,6054,6055,6056″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
All is well as we finish the first week of August.
Generally a soft period fishing Montana’s Missouri River. Why? Because the rest of the rivers in Montana are actually fishing this time of year. While the Mo fishes all 12 months the rest of the state has to deal with run-off consequently a shorter fishing season. So as the rest of the the state enjoys their peak, we settle into a late summer program.
What does that entail you ask? Well my fishy friends here are the highs and lows of August fishing Missouri River style.
Early mornings. Well not as wearily as the last month. You can actually sleep in a bit. If you make it to the water by 8 or 9am you still get the best of the Trico spinner fall. Not a big rush as the pressure here is light. Wander out to your favorite flat and have that last cup of Joe. Then dress your line and make that first cast.
Early off in the afternoons. Don’t stay out til 5 pm. Come in and take yourself a Siesta. Nap for a while, review the days events, then wander over to Joe’s for a Bloody Mary. Then to Izaak’s for a Pulled Pork Platter. Then off to bed to dream of the big Mo River Trout.
Hopper Time. Rock it all day long if you are so inclined. Headhunters has over 50 hopper patterns for your Brown Trout fix. Stock up for other rivers too. We got Chubby’s! Lots of them. Honest. Buy a box full.
Fish Caddis. There are not a ton of caddis in water, in the air…but they trout will eat them. Tie it on and let it ride.
Fish the Blackfoot with one of our guides. Want to experience something different than the Missouri? Let us show you another river and new world. Freestones are cool!
Try fishing the smallest flies in your box. They work! Tiny flies here on the world famous Mo are certainly challenge. Are you up for it?
Fish a new stretch. The lower river is fun. Not familiar with the canyon? Try it. You might enjoy the scenery and the hungry brown trout.
Trico’s are still happening in the am. Get out there and enjoy it. Remember that the flies you choose do not have to be Trico’s. You can fish other food items over the heads and the mouth will respond.
Headhunters open daily @ 6am for all your river needs. The fall clothing is in the store and the remaining summer stuff must go. Stop by for killer sale times like shirts, hats, flips, flies, fly lines, and the like. We’ll greet you with a smile.
All you need to get through the day here on the Mo.
The fly patch says it all.
A couple Trico patterns, a few subsurface jewels, and a few hoppers.
Enjoy you river day. It is quiet today. Nice.
Shop closed @ 5pm today. Baseball tonight. See you @ 6am tomorrow.
Headhunters will be closing at 5 PM this Friday August 8th, instead of our usual 9-10 PM. The entire staff is getting together for our annual Employee Appreciation Day! For those rolling into Craig after work, you’ll have to find another shuttle option. Fishing is way better in the morning anyhow. We will see you bright and early at 6 AM on Saturday morning.
The nymphing the last couple days has picked up. Thankfully. A bit bumpy on the subsurface road for a few days, now it has picked up!
The weather is hot and indicative of August here on the Mo. High and bright afternoons without much wind have made casting pretty easy and the shopper fish are responding.
Trico’s going in the mornings and those who are targeting them are having a good time. Pretty damn good fishing if you poll those involved.
It is August and all is well.
Come on out if you have an inkling to toast the dry fly. It has been really quite good!
September booking coming right along. Kids back in school, parents out to play. Call today for a hand in planning your trip for the fall.
Shop open daily @ 6am and the early start has been the key. Open late for any needs you may have whether it be flies, shuttles, info, campsite suggestions, GIK…or just a friendly ear to listen to your big fish story! We’re here for you.
In a strange but true situation here on the Missouri River the Dry Fly Fishing is better than the Nymph Fishing.
Honest.
While the Missouri River is know for its famous dry fly fishing it is also a fantastic nymph fishery. Unbelievable in fact.
But, for the last couple weeks the nymph bite has been shitty soft. An understatement really. While we are still getting some trout to eat the nymph it has not been stellar. We are used to stupendous nymph fishing all year long. Of course we see some soft spots…this is certainly one of them.
Not that you can’t catch few trouts on the wet fly. You can. But it not what we, or you, have become accustomed to. It will turn at some point. We will let you know here of course. But until then, do not expect to set any records.
The Dam is not even that hot yet. It will allow heat up as the month passes by and we approach September.
On the other hand, the dry fly anglers are still having a heyday! Not much pressure for us in August and there are plenty of fish not getting bothered. Go out and find your Valhalla.
Some days there are rising fish all day long after the spinner fall in the morning gets the fish in the right mood. You know that feeling. The Trico Spinner Falls have been epic on any given day. Not always, but almost always. Less pressure here than in July and June have allowed the fish to become pretty comfortable sipping in historical summertime pods.
Then there are those lone fish. Do you like the loners? They can be brown in flavor.
Folks are finding the dry effective all the way through the canyon and downriver to Cascade. Check out the daily weed flow and choose your reach. Today the weeds not too bad. Better than the last few days for sure folks.
Headhunters guides are stretched out all over the river. Mostly downstream though as the hopper and attractor flies have been killer. Maybe not all day long but before the sun gets too high the fish are certainly in a positive feeding mode.
We love Trico’s and love to fish them. Get on out and enjoy a quieter river for another month. Then September picks up a little. Most of the rest of the state is fishing really well and we enjoy this time of year while some of our guests are fishing the Freestones. Like the Blackfoot!
If you love the dry fly, come on out and toss your line in. Most days I see more dry fly anglers than nymphers. Yep, true.
Shop open daily @ 6am and open late til 9pm. Late shuttles, flies, info, and the early stuff too. Coffee is on and hot early here in Craig.
August has arrived and with it the high and bright sun. Would not expect anything different than that? Would you?
The fact is that the average daily high temperature in August is 82F. 1 degree cooler than July. The water temps follow suit as they drop throughout this month.
So as the water and air temps cool the fishing can become difficult. If you know that coming into the game you should be just fine. August is tougher than the previous two months because of the conditions. We have some weed in the water column, the air is hot, the sun is high int eh sky, and the fish have seen it all.
You too can overcome the challenges and succeed! A few tips below to insure August angling success.
Go out early and beat the heat. Not one concept better than this one. Go early and beat the heat. Fish do not like high sun. They do not have eyelids. They can’t squint man.
If you can’t go early, go late. But the evening session is by no means as good as the morning shot. Dawn Patrol for sure.
Be a better angler. The fish can get a touch gun shy in August. They have been fished over for a couple strong months. Make the first cast count and make sure you set up quietly. Gently. Secretly.
Stay hydrated. It’s hot. Drink lots of water. Wear a wide brimmed hat. Buff’s. Sungloves. A Bimini stretched over the top of your drifter? A great idea. How about SunBum Sunscreen. Lather it on.
Be prepared with a few dry fly rods strung up. A techy small dry rod. A hopper rod. And maybe a bobber rod. Switch when needed.
If you want to stay away from the rest of the anglers fish the lower river. While it has more weeds, it has fewer boats.
Clean your fly line. It probably has not been done in a while. Do yourself a favor and clean that baby. It is the tool that delivers the fly to the fish. Cherish and enjoy clean fly lines. OR just get a new one. You deserve it.
Small tiny droppers can bring you success. Fish faster water. Don’t drag the fly. Clean off the weeds. Fish midweek. Get off before you are too punchy. What are your secrets for August?
Just use some good ‘ol common sense this month and you can get over on a few. They are finicky and they do go away when you make drifting mistakes. Trout are wild animals and sense predators.
Greg Brown will be performing at the Myrna Loy Center in Helena at 7 PM on Sunday, August 17. He has generously agreed to support a Montana nonprofit organization, Project Healing Waters, by coming to Helena for this one-man concert. Project Healing Waters’ mission is to provide recreational therapeutic opportunities through rod building, fly tying, fly fishing and other outings to disabled military personnel. PHW is proud that, through the generosity of our community and elsewhere, it has been able to serve hundreds of Montana soldiers. All proceeds from this concert will be used by PHW to realize its mission.
Greg appeared at the Myna Loy in September of 2011 to a packed house of loyal fans who have enjoyed his musical odyssey of over four decades. His music styles defy definition. He is a guitar virtuoso that can play the blues, folk songs, jazz, rock and most everything else in a way that is at times earthy, at times ethereal and always transporting. The songs he has written are pastoral lyric poems. Listen to him spin the story about his grandmother canning the fruits of summer harvest in jars or lost love in an old blue car whose brakes make a sound that say, “what’s the use.”
Greg also performed at the Red Ants Pants festival in White Sulphur Springs last summer.
Please join us in supporting a home town effort to help our military men and women move forward with their lives. Tickets are on sale now at the Myrna Loy Center in Helena, Cactus Records and Vootie Productions in Bozeman and at local vendors around Montana.
A few characters from Montana Mike Ward of Adipose Boats and LG of America. Fishing with some cat outta Australia.
I guess he fishes a lot of salt and sets the hook pretty hard. Strip setting with 5X sometimes does not work. Actually never.
Real nice here on the Missouri River.
Enjoy your Sunday as these fellers break off a few more Trico sippers here on the Mo.
Less traffic this month. Should you come?
You like good fish on top?
We do. The Missouri River is producing some really nice fish on the dry fly.
You can nymph them up too. Streamer fishing? OK I guess. “Not Much” is the quote from Dewey @ Headhunters.
Why would you fly fish with the big bug when you can hook ’em with the small white winged black? To each their own…I guess.
The great thing about the Missouri River is that you can skin the cat in so many differing ways.
Small techy dry fly fishing is at it’s peak right now. Go to your spot and get them on the small dry. Whether it be the PMD. the Trico, the mysterious caddisfly.
If you want to roll the terrestrial betwixt points of rising interest feel free to do so. I would. Well, only if you like that sort of thing.
The Big Brown Trout on Dry Flies deal.
Honest. Dry Fly Love.
We so commonly, as of late, meaning the last decade, get categorized into a nymph loving resource. True in some respects.
Not true in others. Respects that is.
Montana’s Missouri River is a classic, the classic maybe, dry fly river. 7K catchable fish per mile. Just think about that for a moment. Name the other resources with that kind of number. 180K insects per square meter. Do the math on that one. Name some other rivers with that number.
So, fish the dry fly. We never disregard the value and effectiveness of the nymph, of the streamer fly. Never. We advocate the use of all. The ability to fish so many different disciplines on any given day is one of the reasons that the Missouri River is highly regarded in so many trout fishing circles.
While we love all the participants in so many differing styles of trout fishing…we love the dry fly.
It is why so many of the locals, the hangers on, the employees, the trout bums, the guides, the shop staffers, the waiters, the bartenders, the dreamers, the dry fly lovers, the travelers of the dry fly, the monks of the dry, the purists, the fantasizers, the reach casters of America.
They love this time period.
Who doesn’t love to catch or at least cast at Big Brown Trout Dry Flies?
Welcome to the Mo in August,. It truly does get more difficult as the month ticks by. Really hard in fact. Practicer a few times in your yard before getting on that jet airplane. You will appreciate the fly rod time in hand upon making the first cast on our beloved river.
The fishing has been just fantastic. Not everyone likes us to tell all to the readers. Well I do not believe that stating that the dry fly fishing is pretty damn good, pretty awesome, some may say mind-blowing….is wrong. The dry fly fishing on any given day is very good. Lots of opportunities for you fellers that like to toss the tiny dry.
Long live the dry fly fisherman!
Check out this kick ass video from Scumliner Media titled Dead Flies Don’t Swim…
Dead Flies Don’t Swim from scumliner media on Vimeo.
Trico’s.
Lots in the morning.
Saturday images for you the dry fly angler.
These are Trico’s.
Lots of them.
The update is as follows. The fishing is fantastic in the morning, not so good in the afternoon!
The heat and some weed growth have kept the post lunch fishing a bit slower than we like. Those who like to get it done head out early and take advantage of the pre heat bite.
Good Trico spinner falls almost every day. Some are not as good as others as the hatch in conjunction withs gentle breeze can diminish the fall.
Remarkably good PMD action still to be had as the spinner falls have been quite impressive. Even some decent emergences in areas nearly every day. Don’t forget about this mid summer mayfly yet.
Caddis better in the evenings with good catch reports coming from the late night gang. Shuttles available at the shop if you plan on heading out after work. Stop in for a shuttle and a batch of kick ass flies.
Terrestrial fishing is as good as you are. Toss it out there as you can and let ‘er ride. Twitch if you can. Only if you can. A fine line between dragging the fly and twitching the fly. Perfect practice makes perfect.
Not as much pressure as we move into the month of August. Come on out early and make a half day of it for your pleasure. Come during the week if you need some real solace. Get out there!
Lodging has some availability as well. Give us a shout and stay in Craig this August at the Craig Trout Camp here in downtown Craig.
Still no fires bothering us here in our neighborhood. Good news.
The fish are getting a touch finicky if you foul up the initial drift. Get your game face on and make the first drift count. Give folks lots of room out there too. Treat others as you you would like to be treated!
Headhunters open at 6am for all your trout fishing needs. Fall clothing in stock as we near the fall. Not nearly yet, but it will be here before we know it. Open late for your late shuttles and lodging needs.
Lots of caddis patterns are working well. While we do not have our normal abundance of Caddis Flies this summer.
[forecast]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Sara and I hit the Blackfoot the other day, along with my 9 year old daughter Adair. Rumors that some Spruce Moths were hatching had us up early and on the water, despite the fact that we’ve been working very long hours and fishing hard early and late here on the Missouri River.
The drive to the Blackfoot is just over an hour for us. Not bad, but the “early-on” culture at Headhunters required that I roust a 9 year old out of bed at 5am and hit the road. No easy task, as I had to ready the raft, gather the proper tackle, get gas and lunch… Thankfully, I didn’t have to roust the 29 year old out of bed. She was waiting for us with coffee at the Stray Bullet Cafe’ in Ovando.
Fishing the Blackfoot is an entirely different experience from our home waters on the Missouri River. Scenery, shade and crystal clear waters trump big fish and technical presentations. And there’s Cutthroat. Both Sara and I learned to fly fish chasing Westslope Cutty’s in Idaho (my spoiled daughter learned to flyfish on the Mo’). We both love them, and they represent the wildness of the Northern Rockies.
The fishing experience isn’t necessarily “trophy”, but the river experience is. There’s a very mountainous and remote feeling to much of the Blackfoot, at least when compared to most famous Montana trout streams. Cutthroat are the main quarry, but you’ll also encounter Brown, Rainbow and Bull Trout.
At one point, Sara spotted two big Cutts rising delicately in some flat water near the bank. By “big”, I mean these were 14, maybe 16 inch fish. Sara was pretty excited – I could tell she wanted to fish for them – but let Adair work them with a dry.
Adair is used to the quick takes of the Missouri, and she pulled the fly away from both fish before they got there. You know how slow those Cutts rise. She managed to get several more looks from the fish, but they wouldn’t be fooled again.
It was a pretty intense session, reminiscent of working some big rising fish on the Missouri. As we moved on, Sara continued to work the water hard, hitting every bucket, seam and riffle. She picked up several nice Cutts before we pulled over on some risers.
[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5957″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Adair leans into a native 17 inch Cutthroat Trout she caught on a Spruce Moth pattern.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Adair got another chance and nailed a very nice fish in the 17 inch range. These Blackfoot Cutts are very healthy right now. Heavy and strong, it’s a chore to pull them out of the slots that run through the bedrock bottom.
The fishing and hatch began to taper off late in the afternoon, though we still caught some smaller fish and Sara nailed a nice Brown on an Ant pattern. The fishing slowed, but the scenery and speedy riffles made the float out enjoyable.
While big western fisheries like the Missouri, Henry’s Fork, Platte and Bighorn garner so much attention, pure freestones like the Blackfoot are often given second class status. They shouldn’t. While Sara and I have had much better fishing recently – in terms of numbers and size – back on the Mo’, we both enjoyed a day off on the Blackfoot even more.
There’s something to be said for not having a specific game plan for each fish. Just floating down the river, flicking a dry out over the water. Kind of like it’s supposed to be.
[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5958″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Annie today with a nice Rainbow caught not he Mighty Mo with HH Guide Mark Raisler
Her husband Sam caught some too!
A scorcher today with dry fly fishing for Trico feeders for about 2 hours. Longer in some areas.
Thunderstorms building as I frantically write this late afternoon Hump Day post.
Some weeds in the river but not as bad as previous years. Honest.
Some more caddis around than the previous week. Trico’s strong. PMD spinner falls still quite impressive and the trout are responding.
Give us a shout if you want your gal on this website.
Hope you folks are having a fantastic summer out there in the world somewhere.
We are. Annie is too. Nice work today Annie on her first guided trip to the Mo. They say more next year!
We look forward to it!
Missouri River Trout Fishing on the Missouri River is good. Damn good.
The dry fly fishing has been truly great. Did you read the fishing report blog from a few days ago? It still is as good as you are. Honest.
PMD’s are still a factor as we had a couple spinner falls that rival any I have seen in my entire life. As good as a Trico Spinner Fall, but much paler in color. A pale green one at that.
The caddis are making an appearance, slowly, and the trout are eating them well. We fish the caddis over the Trico feeding trout…often.
Check out the Trico Video Dead Flies Don’t Swim from John and Scumliner Media this last week!
Some very large spinner falls this last week. Will it continue this next week? Golly, we hope so. Should have Trico’s for another month if history is any indication. Mother Mo can fool us, and does often. Trico hatch nearly every morning with that spinner fall that we all love. The entire HH gang has been out fishing daily to get some of the best, wait “The Best of the Year”, dry fly fishing. It is really good.
Trico’s all the way from Holter to Cascade. PMD’s? on some sections and not as much on others. Sally’s? Gone.
A few ways to catch them this coming week. Go out and stake up. Wait for the Trico’s to come. Or toss some attractors all day long. Hoppers? OK. Or toss nymphs and get ’em that way too.
Shop open daily @ 6am for all things Missouri River Trout. Shuttles, demo rods, rental boats, guides, killer flies, and a fantastic staff to help you enjoy your Missouri River visit.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/101744402″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Dead Flies Don’t Swim is a short video shot last week in our backyard. Mark and I love the Trico hatch, and this season it’s been better than it has in years. We thought we’d go out and gather a few clips with the help of shop guys Braden Lewis and John Ewald. Mark shares some of his thoughts on this famous Missouri River hatch. Video or not, it’s nice to get out early in the morning with friends.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Brown Trout on a dry fly.
A big purple Hopper.
Ninch said it would work.
It did.
Enjoy your day of rest, this day, today, Sunday.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Our own Braden Lewis executing a proper reach cast. If you watch it enough times, will it embed itself into your brain?[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGhyZWYlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRmltZ2ZsaXAuY29tJTJGZ2lmJTJGYWxzc2MlMjIlM0UlM0NpbWclMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRmkuaW1nZmxpcC5jb20lMkZhbHNzYy5naWYlMjIlMkYlM0UlM0MlMkZhJTNF[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Friday Foto Trout Belly Edition today on the Headhunters Fly Fishing Blog.
Rising fish fill the river and this shot was captured yesterday in some sort of feeding frenzy.
Looks good for the weekend ahead. Are you coming to enjoy the trout sipping this weekend? If you are here, we’ll see you on the porch.
Enjoy!
[forecast]
Today’s Missouri River Montana Fly Fishing Report is as follows…
It’s as good as you are. Simple and true.
The yearly statement about your skill level and how it correlates to your catch rate. John and I were talking about this concept on the porch a couple evenings ago. And it rings true every year this time of year extending into and through August.
We are of course speaking about the dry fly end of the spectrum, but can certainly be applied to the nymphing game as well. If you rock your own boat and row it down the river this is certainly true. You gotta know where the fish live and feed. Then your angler, the feller in the bow, must execute the drift properly and let’s hope you have a grip on the trout bait of the day. Then you can find success.
But back to the original question and answer. Q: “How’s the fishing?” A: “As good as you are.”
What does that mean? It means that the insects are doing their part. Hatching daily, somewhat predictable spinner falls, and rising in/at consistent locations. It means that you are required to do your part. Cast well, drift better, and set the hook.
Those anglers who cast better, drift better, fish better catch more fish.
No offense intended to those anglers who do not posses the upper level skill sets. That is not we we intend by this post. Lots of parallels in other sports. Those who play more basketball score more points. Those who ski 50+ days a year are more comfortable skiing steeper terrain. Those who either practice casting and/or fish more often catch more of our late July finicky freely rising trout. Just that simple.
Just a few reminders for those who love to stalk rising trout. Do yourself a favor and practice a few times before coming. Casting wildly in-between rising trout does not qualify as practicing. Enjoy the river and enjoy this time of year. It really is fantastic dry fly fishing. Kind of as good as it gets. Really.
[forecast]
I used to be the soft rod guy. No more. I am a fan of the stick that gets the most work done. Do work Son!
That is the SAGE Method. A work horse if there ever was one.
I look at the bevy of fly rods available to me in the morning and I nearly always pick out the 5 and 6 wt SAGE Method. The only time the line up changes is when I add a couple SAGE One rods for good measure.
Yes, the SAGE One is probably the better all ’round fisher of the two, but if you like go fast and horsepower all the time, as I do, then the Red Rod is the clear choice for daily angling.
The Method can fight fish too. Just faster.
One of the greatest spinner falls I have ever seen occurred earlier today on the upper river. Honest.
Billion, shoot brazillions, of Trico Spinners hit the water later in the morning and we had a helluva time getting our flies noticed for a spell. Then, then it happened. Caddis, PMD’s, Buzzballs turned on and we were able to capitalize on the Trico feeding fish. Just too much of a good thing for a time there. You truly cannot compete with so many naturals on the water.
Many folks, anglers, toss the Trico Spinner to Trico eating fish. It does work. They are actually eating Trico Spinners much of the time. But here is the helpful fly fishing feeding hint of the day…fish will eat flies other than Trico’s when they are feeding on Trico’s. They will. Trust me, I’m a guide.
Still no sign of the caddis here in big numbers. Although we have seen a couple days of spent caddis on the water in the mornings. Hatching at midnight? Could be. Will they come? If they don’t, we still have PMD’s and Trico’s. And terrestrials on their way?
Ants are still getting some attention and the hoppers? On their way. We have been seeing few go out of the shop this last couple weeks in preparation for the big event. We have a fabulous selection of the big fellers here in downtown Craig!
The water flows are up and down as the water managers have been thrown a monkey wrench a few time this spring and summer. Currently at the 4500cfs mark and water temps bouncing around too. The last couple cool days coupled with really cool mornings have kept it down.
The weeds have made an appearance and the lower you go the more you see. Can make nymphing difficult at times but does not bother the dry fly angler as much.
Some great guides still avail toward the end of this month as we mover toward the month of August. Lodging too. Come on out or come on over if you live somewhere within a good casting distance. Call us up on our Trout Fishing Hotline @ 406-235-3447 or 877-DRY-FLYS.
The shop is open at 6am for all your trout fishing needs here in central Craig near the river. A bundle of new fall clothing from SIMMS is getting stocked now for when the weather turns and so do the leaves. Sooner that later. Come by for our SALE Rack as it expanded recently while we need to get out with the summer stuff and in with the new.
Headhunters can handle your shuttle, your fly line issues, a new rod or two, outwear, innerwear, headwear, gloves, and BUFF’s too. Stop by for a cup of hot Joe in the morning and get the up to the minute fishing report from our crack staff…
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Here’s your Monday Morning Macro of yesterdays Missouri River nymph survey by in-house biologist Braden Lewis. Pretty cool shots, and another weekly change in what’s on the menu for Missouri River trout. Kind of like those “visual” menu’s at Denny’s. If you swim for a living.
What do we see this week? Lots of damsel nymphs, not as many scuds, but still many PMD nymphs. The variety of mayfly nymphs is increasing, with some Trico and Pseudo nymphs, as well as others that Braden will have to get out his ID book to work on.
A big Crawdad made the scene. He appears to be molting. Lots of sucker fry, an often overlooked but very important food source. The Sucker fry were incredibly fragile, beginning to croak a few minutes after we put them in the tank. 1 juvenile sculpin made the scene as well.
The bad news? 1 caddis larva. One. Can you find it?
Make sure and CLICK ON THE IMAGES to enlarge in a lightbox.
Fly Tiers, take a good look at that Sucker fry.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5858,5859,5860,5861,5862,5864,5865,5866,5867,5868,5869,5870″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Jerry from Helena has bought a boat from Helena.
He owned a cherry Clackacraft for a couple years and then upgraded to this sweet looking and rowing green Adipose Flow!
Nice work Jerry.
You too can own one of these beauties.
Get on their website today and get in!
We are entering the final third of July and the fishing is red hot.
Those who love to dry fly dawn til dusk are having their cake and eating it too.
Trico’s continue to be the hottest ticket from dawn too the afternoon period depending on the wind, the spinner fall and a billion environmental factors.
We know the reach cast factor helps too.
There PMD’s are still around but not always in the number we like. The spinner fall can come out of nowhere and make the afternoon more tolerable.
The caddis seem to be nowhere near as fulfilling as the past 50 years but the fish do respond to a caddis fly floated over their nose properly. Will they come in bigger numbers this year? We are not holding our breath. Braden our in house bug seiner and researcher is out right now gathering specimens and we should have a blog about the river contents today sometime. Keep it here for updates in regards to the biomass moments and changes.
Until then, here are the hot flies of July from Montana’s Missouri River.
And a few nymphs for your palette.
That should keep you busy for a while. There are plenty of bugs that work that are not on this list. These are hot sellers and hot flies that seem to be popular for the last week(s) of July fishing Montana’s Missouri River.
Good dry fly bite in the mornings and it can continue throughout the day per above. The nymphers are doing well in all water types at all levels. Look for good nymphing in faster water as the fish are moving to higher oxygen environments. They do every summer as the water temps rise. No secret there. Just remember to follow your late summer instincts and fish near the surmise and the sunset. Smart.
See you tomorrow on this very buggy blog. Friday is just 4 days away!
PMD Spinner hanging from the web of life here on Montana’s Missouri River.
Happy Silly Sunday Scenery from all of us here at Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig Montana.
Enjoy.
Late July and all is well.
The dry fly fishing has been fantastic and aided in part from the false overcast this last week from the fires to the North and to the West.
Now the smoke has been blown out by the wind as we head into the new week.
Sunday and a ton of non angler crafts will again float and drink while we fish and sometimes drink. It has been damn hot here so plan accordingly with the proper amount of water in the YETI Cooler. The weather will cool as we get closer into August and the water temps too.
The Trico’s will hold your interest for the morning session as they come off and spin in the mid morning hours. Some days they will stay on the water until well after noon.
Some days we have a good to decent PMD Spinner fall in the late morning as well. Hope that one of these events prolongs the dry fly bite. Some days we can have opportunities for fishing fish dawn til dusk. Lots of non-local locals here as the month comes to the end. August is a new deal.
Caddis are not around in the numbers that we are used to and they may come? I honestly do not really know the answer to that oft asked question.
We will keep you informed as to the dry fly and insect activity.
Flows are holding at the 4600cfs mark and the water temps are rising as the summer days pound on us. Not too hot though and while the weeds have begun to grow they are not a problem yet. The nights bring it to 62F and the days it can reach 66F. Let’s not have it reach higher.
As for the graph, the USGS Graph, it looks like they re-calibrated it and we are now at 4600. So was the 4K reading a farce?
Did I mention that August is a much cooler month here in central Montana and we will expect both the air and the water to cool.
Folks are spread out from top to bottom and fishing at night as well. Choose your drift and enjoy it. Stop in for a shuttle if you like.
We are now open at 6am for coffee, flies, info, boat rentals, sunscreen, and much more too!
John Arnold’s Scumliner Media wins Drake Magazine’s Best Humor Fly Fishing Film at ICAST/IFTD this last week in Orlando FLA.
Cool huh.
Nice work John.
We happen to like this film. It is the dead of summer and damn hot. Do we want to return to the air temps of February? 10F.
Yep 10F.
The short answer is NO. We like summer.
But if you want to see this kick ass film of skiing/boarding and fishing in the dead of winter here in Craig Montana you should push play.
Best Humor Film at the ICAST/IFTD show .
You decide for yourself. Enjoy Scumliner’s Media FISHSKI.
FISHSKI from scumliner media on Vimeo.
Check it out. July.
It’s awesome.
Stalking wily sipping trout on Montana’s Missouri River.
Wade fishing at it’s best fishing with The Taylor’s.
Honest.
Shop fly guru Ben McNinch with this healthy night time Brown Trout.
Awesome Ben. While we work most of the time we still find time to get out on our favorite dry fly fishing river in the world.
We are just lucky to live and work on this great fly fishing resource.
The dry fly month is here and will continue for another full month?
Trico’s every day. PMD’s most days. Caddis some days. Sally’s on the weekends.
The water temps spiked today as the sun is high. Air temps in the daytime vicinity of 90ishF. Will she move higher? Maybe. July is the hottest month of the year. August is cooler.
The weeds are not here yet but we may see them in August. Honest.
Fly flicking dries all day long on the Mighty Mo. We got ’em for the next 6 weeks.
Want to book a late July guide trip along with lodging here in downtown Craig Montana? We have avail. for the next 6 weeks. September and October too. Not too early to get your name on the books for the late season dry fly love. We’ll host you here at Headhunters Fly Shop and Guide Service.
If we don’t see you soon, we’ll see you in the fall.
Plan today for your future trip. Do it.