Fished a bundle with Capt. Jeff Arnold over the years. To say that he lives to be on the water is an understatement. Fishing courses through his veins. Jeff is one fishy dude. And that is something I do not say without reason. Capt. Jeff is fishy!
Jeff spent a few years here on the Mighty Mo guiding for one of our neighbors. He spent a couple years in Belize wandering and working on the water in the late 90’s. He lived and worked in the FLA KEYS fishing with our friend Capt. Scott Yetter of Sightfish Charters. There he met Capt. Mike Gorton of Goodnews River Lodge in AK. Capt. Jeff will be spending his 16th year as Lead Guide on the Goodnews this coming summer.
But here we are talking about Arnold’s Guide Service in Hopedale LA.
Get yourself a vacation this winter with Capt. Jeff. Redfish are a great saltwater species that are catchable. So many saltwater environs can be too difficult for many anglers. Fishing in brackish water in the Biloxi Marsh will allow you to learn, and catch some great fish too.
I always recommend you start with Redfish as a novice saltwater angler. A fantastic starting point. And did I mention, that you can catch some too.
Redfish are my personal favorite saltwater target. I like catching fish. Capt. Jeff can get you there.
Call him up and get your Redfish dream trip started.
2021 Hatches, Guide Trips, Lodging, and Booking Projections This holiday period is a tie when many book their 2021 Guide Trips and lodging looking forward to the Mo River Season ahead. A few insights, tips, suggestions and the like in this short article looking toward the future and your Missouri River fly fishing dreams! January … Read more
Rent a Cabin from Headhunters Fly Shop this Fall Want to fish out front of your riverfront Missouri River cabin this fall like this dude? If you do see www.CraigLodging.com for all of your options. Like more info from a real human talking on your phone? Call 406-235-3447 today. Our lodging pros have all of … Read more
HH Guide Max Mattioli catches New Zealand Eel Max checks in from New Zealand where he and fellow HH guide Brett Matula are fishing their way around that fishy country. Max on his first visit with Brett making his second journey across the pond. Enjoy the eel story below and check out the blog Brett penned … Read more
Lots of folks call the shop and inquire about guide services. Many of you who have not had the wonderful opportunity to be guided before, you are in for a trout fishing treat.
Squeeky’s father suggested he write this blog for all those who ask why? “Why would you hire a trout fishing guide if you already know how to fish?” Or, “Don’t you already know how to fly fish? Do you really need a guide?”
What kind of folks hire guides or Why would you hire a fly fishing guide?
Bank Sipping Big Brown Trout
All walks of angling life hire fly fishing guides. From the 1st time angler who wants to learn everything from which end of the fly pole to hold to advanced/expert anglers who want to fish to finicky bank sippers with a a sz 24 Trico spinner.
All anglers want to learn, almost all. Enjoying the day with a full time Missouri River Guide will give you the time to not only hook a few, but to learn about casting, entomology, why the bobber is called an indicator or to point out birds, Mink and other streamside wildlife.
Yes, all types of anglers hire fishing guides. Some just want a guide to usher them down the river and row, while others want the full meal deal. Soup to nuts. There are lots of reasons you could hire a fly fishing guide.
What does the Guide Trip Include?
The Missouri River Guide Trip is all inclusive.
Flies.
All included @ Headhunters Fly Shop & Guide Service. Not all fly shops or guide services include flies. Be sure to ask your Outfitter if this is included. Otherwise you may pay additionally for flies used during the day. Back in the day most of the operations charged for flies. That concept is changing. So if you needed or lost 23 flies during the day the up-charge could be 23 flies X $2.50 equaling $57.50. No, not here at Headhunters. All flies are included in the trip price.
Fly Rods.
Again, most Outfitters and Guides provide gear for the day. We encourage you to bring your favorite gear but it is not imperative. If you like your 8 1/2’ Winston 8’6” IM6, then bring it. If you like your hyper-fast pinpoint precision casting SAGE Method, then bring it. Most guides have top ‘o the line fly rods for your use, pre-rigged and ready to go. Headhunters also has FREE demo rods for you to enjoy or embrace for the day. Many anglers seize the opportunity to try that new SAGE ONE or the Orvis Helios 2 or even a Sweetgrass Bamboo 5wt for dry fly targets. Why not have fun and give current fly rod technology a test drive? Again, ask your guide if he has gear for you as many assume you will be bringing your own.
Terminal Tackle.
What does that mean. It means leaders, tippet, split shot, bobbers and the like. All guides will have this. Unless you hire a guide born before fiberglass drift boats became widely used. Not that there is anything wrong with that…
Lunch/Drinks/Snacks
Included with most trips all over Montana. Headhunters yes. The Saltwater Flats Captains generally want you to provide lunch, not the freshwater trout guides of Montana. Headhunters provides a nice high quality delicious sando, snacks like chips, fresh fruit or salad, dessert like a cookie or chocolate, and non-alcoholic beverages. Guides will have a bundle of bottled water, leaded and unleaded sodas, and the like. You will have to provide any alcoholic beverages if you like a beer after lunch. Or some even prefer one before lunch. You are on vacation…
Some guides will have daytime snacks too. This is up to the guide so if you want anything like Beef Jerky, sunflower seeds, peanuts, nicotine products including cigars and snuff, trail mix…bring it for yourself. The guide will have plenty of room to stash any additional snack items. The bottom line is if you want some additional stuff because you get hungry at 10am, then tote it along.
Waders
Most bring their own waders in the spring and fall. In the summer months many wade fish and hangout in the boat in flip flops, Crocs, wading sandals. Headhunters has SIMMS waders gratis for all guided clients. Check and see if your outfitter has the proper gear for you.
The advantage of having rods, reels, flies, waders on site you can travel light. Just hop on the jet airplane and begin enjoying your trout fishing vacation. We got your back.
What kind of day will you have?
You are the Captain!
You design the day. Your guide will commonly ask you what you want to do for the day or if you have something specific in mind. Do you want to Head-Hunt looking for single sippers bankside or nymph up a pile for body count anglers or work on your streamer presentations and streamer casting? It is imperative that you have a few ideas about your goals and convey them to your guide. It is the only way for both of you to have success. This may be the #1 item on your agenda. Think about what you want while booking the fishing trip and let the booking individual in on this secret.
You could say something like “I am a dry fly fanatic. I just want to hunt heads.” Or you may say “I’ll gladly nymph until the hatch, then I would like to find a few rising fish.” Or, “I’ll leave the dry flies to those other guys, I just want to pound the banks with a streamer!”
Questions you can ask while booking a fly fishing guide include…
Is the guide local and does he fish this river often? Will my guide travel to meet me and what rivers will we be fishing? An analogy would be if you were to host a Chinese Party at your house with Chinese decorations, theme, and Chinese Food…wouldn’t you hire a Chinese Chef? Sure you would. You would probably not hire a French Chef for this task. While the French Chef is probably familiar with Chinese Cuisine, it is not his specialty. Chinese Chefs cook better Chinese Fare. The French Chef could probably pull it off…but is that what you want in your Chef? In your fishing guide?
Headhunters Guides fish the Missouri River, the Blackfoot River, and the Dearborn River. Exclusively. If you are looking for a Madison River Guide, you would not hire a Missouri River Guide. In situations like this we will refer you to a Madison River Expert. A guide who works on the Madison would be abetter bet for your success. And conversely if you are wanting a Missouri River Guide, you would not…
How long is the day?
8-10 hours is pretty common. That might mean 8 hrs fishing with the other two hours getting ready, rigging rods, meeting you at your rental house, having a post fishing cocktail with you. Many guides go longer than the 8hr mark. If the fishing is damn good, guides want to go longer and enjoy the fantastic bite. If the fishing is shitty and you have several guided days in a row, he may suggest a shorter day making up the difference when the bite is red hot.
Guides will want to meet you at a time that will provide you the best opportunity for your fishing desires. If you like to hunt heads, he may want to get out before the rest of the gang. So early may be the right time. If you want to fish the evening hatch, he may want to meet you at High Noon. If you are fishing a half-day he may want to meet you at 9am and fish ’til afternoon encompassing the meat of the bite, spinner fall, streamer session. He has your back and will set the meeting time accordingly.
Having said that you can dictate the meeting time. If you like to sleep in tip 9am, have breakfast while reading the newspaper, and leisurely wander in at 10:30am…well you can. Just don’t ask your guide to promise you the best dry fly bite, the best of whatever you may want. He is a fishing guide, guide-like…he is not god-like. Mother Nature conducts the bug choir and the guide plays second fiddle to that part of that equation.
Mid-summer in Montana presents some interesting hot weather and some guides will offer split days. Late July temps can exceed 100F so the Guide to keep you and he comfortable and to offer fishing services during the most productive times of the day may want to meet you at O’Dark Thirty, or 5am and fish until 11am. Then meet you again at 6-7pm and fish ’til dark. This is a mid-summer operation.
Ben Hardy HH Lead Guide and his dog Reva
Can I bring my Dog?
Ask your guide. Some say yes, some say no.
Well, the drift boat that most guides use has two seats for anglers. Some folks want to bring 3 people on the boat, with the guide making four passengers. This rarelyworks. Ask your guide and do not be surprised if he declines the opportunity to guide 3 at a time. Rivers like the Bighorn in SE Montana operate this way, but not may other rivers. Some steelhead Guides want 3 anglers. But it is not as common as the two angler situation. The drift boat is built for two anglers.
The reason is that there is not a seat for that 3rd angler. The 3rd anger has to sit on the cooler, crowding wither the angler in front, or the guide. It usually compromises the entire day. The boat is not designed for 3. Think about 3 anglers casting at the same time. A mess! So, only two can fish at one time unless you go to a spot and get out and wade fish. Which is just fine unless you like to drift fish. Nymphing is a game that on our river, the Missouri, the drifting game is an effective and efficient method!
Ask Questions during the day!
Don’t be afraid to ask your guide to teach you something. Or if you want to learn about a reach cast, or just why he moved the indicator for that last run. Or why he added more split shot or removed it completely. Why he passed the last 17 rising fish and stopped at this particular rising trout? He will be glad to let you in on his thinking, on his reasoning, in his trout fishing mind.
When should I come?
Ask the Headhunters booking expert, or your outfitter the best time for you to come. The answer is different for different guests. You may not want to come in late July or Early August as the dry fly fishing becomes more difficult. Those fish are educated. That time frame is for those who like difficult sippers. But it is good timing for those who want to toss grasshoppers for big Brown Trout. You may not catch 10 of them, but you may get a couple big ones?
May, may be the time for you if you like un-educated trout eating Blue Winged Olives and Midge. June is crowded. The first half of July is damn busy. September is for nymphers with not many fish to toss the dry at. October is great for BWO’s in the afternoon with the nymphing filling the morning session. Fall is good for streamer fishing with the spring being even better! Ask anyone at the shop for a detailed itemization of hatch schedules, nymphing and streamer fishing seasons.
What is not included in my Guide Trip?
Fishing License.
You should provide your fishing license to your guide, outfitter, or booking agent as they will need some information from your fishing license for the Governor. No, they are not stealing your identity.
Gratuities.
A common tip is $100. Some tip as much as $200. A tip is a tip. Guide appreciate any dollar amount. Inviting your guide to dinner does not constitute a tip. He or she has another trip in the morning and needs to finish up today’s work and prep for tomorrow. Or, he needs to spend some time belly’d up to the bar finishing up the days work prepping for tomorrow.
Alcoholic Beverages. BYOB.
Will my guide show me wade fishing spots?
Sure. The best way to insure guide trip success is for you to ask questions and communicate constantly with your guide. He cannot read your mind. He is not god-like. He may be able to whisper some fish, but he cannot guess what you want or need from your guided fishing trip.
What should I bring on my guide trip?
Anything you want. Bring your favorite fly rod. That is why you have it. To fish world class water with your favorite tool. Sunglasses. All the clothing you think you need including raingear. It can rain in the summer too. Maybe for just 12 minutes, a 12 minute downpour. Hats, sunscreen, anything you like to have while trout fishing. The drift boats have plenty of storage. Just be comfortable.
Enjoy the Day!
The bottom line is just this…you get to dictate how the day goes. You need to communicate effectively with your fly fishing guide. You will design the day together, as you go. It is just that simple.
Lots of people take their first guide trip every year. Usually not their last. Some anglers like to fish with a guide for a couple days, rent a boat for a couple days, and wade fish a couple days. And then there are those who spend the whole week getting guided. It is totally up to you!
Make sure to check out our Spring Special for a scant $400/day. March 15th thru the end of April. The Missouri River’s favorite Spring Trip Specialists. We bring back nearly our entire guide staff for this annual popular event. Book today for your favorite Headhunters Guide. Great lodging pricing too @ Craig Trout Camp and other local lodging outlets.
Time to Book Your Fall Fly Fishing Trip to the Missouri River Montana It is coming up quickly. The fall months of September, October and November will be here shortly. Just getting into summer? Me too, but…but it will soon be over. And these wonderful long days will be a thing of the past. Seasons … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] A million miles away. Sort of. The summer is coming. It feels like a million miles away. Sort of. But the reality is that a few blinks of the eye and it will be upon us. Time to book that summer trip. Honest. Our famous annual Spring Special starts in 8 weeks. PMD’s arrive … Read more
Real Scary Shit This developed yesterday. Actually the day before the signs were in place. The entire stretch of the Yellowstone, the trout fishing reach, is CLOSED TO ALL RECREATION. That is serious. Read it all at RT News, or this comprehensive article from the Helena Independent Record. Real Scary Shit. Keep invasive species away, … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As we head into a drought year with at least some fishing restrictions, we thought we’d throw a long overdue shout-out to our friends at Phasmid Rentals (now Explore Rentals) in Bozeman. Owner Will Cassella has been a customer for years and runs an excellent 4 Wheel Drive/Camping/Boat Rental operation that many of our customers utilize.
If I could give one piece of advice during a low-water/hot weather year, it’s to BE MOBILE. The ability to quickly changes plans and rivers allows you to work around unexpected closures, poor fishing and sometimes the weather. Mobility means camping, not the typical hotel/lodge accommodations.
Camping means you’re either going to drive to Montana (can be thousands of miles) -or- ship some camping gear here ahead of your visit -or- go to Wally World and buy a crappy tent, sleeping bag, etc. to be left in the airport dumpster. Flying this kind of gear out has simply become too expensive, and the airline pain-in-the-ass factor has become intolerable.
Or, you can rent all of this stuff from Explore Rentals. It starts with a Suburban or Outback, and you go from there. You can add a camper or an NRS Freestone Inflatable Drift boat (one of our favorites). You can choose between multiple sleeping options, including the “Zzz” setup to crash in your car, or a variety of tents, sleeping pads and bags. A variety of cooking kits, coolers, tables, camp chairs, etc. is available. Explore even rents Bear Spray and two-way radios. The list is enormous.
While you won’t be as comfortable as you would staying in a nice riverside cabin with a shower and Satellite TV, you can quickly and easily move to where the fishing is best. And you get to do a little “roughing it”, which is good for you. Watch the sun go down on the bank of a different river each night, including some of those lesser fished places that don’t have services.
We’ve heard nothing but great things from our customers who have utilized Explore Rentals, and they’ve grown considerably in the last few years. If you are in the planning stages of a Montana fly fishing trip for later this summer – and you don’t mind sleeping on a pad instead of a bed – we highly recommend that you check out this option. Fly to Bozeman, pick everything up and then go where the fishing is the best.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]From Epic Montana comes a very nice video about our friend, fellow guide and Upper Missouri Waterkeepers PD Wade Fellin. One of the better fly fishing videos I’ve seen in a while, and one with a message that matters. Check it out and hit the link below to learn more about the Waterkeepers. You can also check out Craig Fellin’s Big Hole Lodge. Maybe you want to spend a day or 3 with these guys?[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/162904599″][us_separator height=”20px” size=”custom”][vc_btn title=”UPPER MISSOURI WATERKEEPERS” color=”primary” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.uppermissouriwaterkeeper.org||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Spring Special March 15th thru April 30 It starts tomorrow. The Annual Headhunters Spring Special March 15th thru April 30. $350 Guide Trips in conjunction with discounted local lodging on Montana’s famed Missouri River. Want to fish earlier than you normally do? Want to get in on this highly affordable guide price. Would you like … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Add a Blackfoot River trip to your annual Missouri River vacation. A short scenery packed 1 hr jump over the Continental Divide to freestone bliss. It can be tough to drag guests from the gentle runs and mega hatches of the Missouri River in Craig Montana but I gotta tell you that I have not … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]A cool one this Friday. Friday Foto moving style.
West Coast Steelhead rule.
A conservation slant on this one. We totally agree.
This week Save Our Smith, and this film by Conservation Hawks Chrome.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/150361506″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Spey junkies are constantly hounding us for opinions, info, gear reviews, line recommendations and technical advice. I don’t think everyone who stops by or emails a question needs an answer. They just want to get a discussion going. It’s winter after all. We’re all swinging two-handers and relishing the solitude. Or is it too much solitude? Maybe we do need a little camaraderie?
We don’t mind the questions. Spey fishing and equipment is something we talk about all day at the shop. Even when you’re not there. And we also like to recommend some of our own favorite resources for customers to check out. I think Dewey and Braden have watched every one of Ed Ward & Jerry French’s OPST videos. Ten times, and totally justified. Technicians Sara and Ben have studied spey focused blogs like Denekifor years, and continue to promote them as a resource for our customers.
Most of our customers are aware of Deneki Outdoors and their prominent website and blog. Deneki operates several camps in Alaska, BC and the Bahamas. Two of their camps are particularly noted as spey fishing destinations. BC West (Dean River) and AK West (Kanektok River). Both of the fisheries are storied for fishing the two-hander. The Dean River is almost mythical among Steelheaders. A place I feel fortunate to have fished several times. The guides AK West were integral in popularizing spey fishing for Chinook (King) Salmon, as well as the other species of Pacific Salmon and big Alaskan Rainbows.
Go check out their blog, and really dive in. It’s been around for several years (an eternity in the Fly-fishing Internet world), and you can find some excellent product reviews, knot tying videos, fly tying info and their very popular “Rig” articles. The “Rig” articles (my term) feature a different guide and his particular rig for a specific species and scenario. And by rig, I mean for your backing to spool knot all the way to the knot they ties the fly on with. Pretty interesting stuff.
Deneki also offers some very good gear reviews. And these are on-water reviews by people who fish, not “reviewers” or folks who make a living writing fluff for magazines. I don’t believe I have ever disagreed with a Deneki equipment review. And I like to disagree…
It’s the middle of winter and while all you hardcores are swinging, the days are short and cold enough to leave a few hours for internet research.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Here’s a couple of fly fishing videos I recently viewed. That I like. Hide under your desk for a few minutes and watch. Or pretend that you just received some incredibly important email. Thats what I do.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/145062548″][us_separator size=”custom” height=”32px”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/144622860″][us_separator size=”custom” height=”32px”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/139464907″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Headhunters guide JP Basile contacted me the other day asking us to let readers know that this is the final week from commenting on proposed regulations changes in Washington, some of which apply to Wild Winter Steelhead on the Olympic Peninsula (there are actually many rules changes to go through if you wish, affecting not only the Peninsula but other regions as well).
Highlights that will strike a cord with many of you include:
PROHIBIT WILD STEELHEAD HARVEST is so long overdue, and a testament to the shitty fisheries management my home state of Washington has long practiced.
Please click on the link below to see the rules changes and comment on them! You only have until Nov. 12 (Thur) to make your voice heard.
It only takes a few minutes to act.[/vc_column_text][us_btn align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwdfw.wa.gov%2Ffishing%2Fregulations%2Frule_proposals%2F2016-2017%2Fproposals.php%3FRegionID%3D2||target:%20_blank” style=”4″ label=”PROPOSED RULES CHANGES CLICK HERE” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2218px%22%7D%7D”][us_separator height=”20px” size=”custom”][vc_column_text]Bottom line? If you’re a conservation minded angler – and love Steelhead – these regulations are a no-brainer. They promote the health and future of Steelhead on the OP. They address the poor-practices of non-forward thinking anglers, the overall user experience, user conflict and Steelhead catch mortality. Most important, they promote the health of WILD STEELHEAD, the only kind that matter.
Below is a passionate note from JP, along with some pictures of his wife Teal and their family exploring the waters of the Olympic Peninsula:[/vc_column_text][us_testimonial author=”JP Basile” company=”Steelhead fanatic”]When I first asked Headhunters to share the comment page (WA. DFW Proposed Regulation Changes) about this topic I was very hesitant, especially when he asked if I would comment on how special these fish are. I am out of my element behind the keyboard, and sharing anything about Steelhead is not a great way to start your winter off. Bad Juju. They last thing you want is more people to share a run with. With the impact social media has had on fishing as a whole and specifically steelhead fishing, this was going to come with some heat. Possibly negative results.
I looked over on the couch where my oldest boy was asleep. He is now three, but his first trip to the OP he was just 3 months old. That was and still is my favorite trip up there. A week dragging him down the river in the rain, my wife feeding him on gravel bars, changing diapers in the raft, and we even had some decent fishing. It’s now in his blood. He has floated more steelhead rivers in his first three years than I did by thirty. So, when the thought of my son not able to teach his son or daughter about these special fish hit me, the parental instinct kicked in.
I instantly wanted to scream what these fish mean to us. I now wanted to share that, Steelhead will do that to you. They have a power that is unexplainable, not physical but spiritual. So to say this place and these fish are special is true and I want you to know that, if protecting them means more people, I will have to live with that to. I am asking anyone who is interested in helping save these fish for our future generation of Steelheaders to take two minutes and voice your opinion.
Thanks,[/us_testimonial][us_separator height=”20px” size=”custom”][us_grid columns=”6″ post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”15214,15215,15216,15217,15218,15219″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][us_separator height=”20px” size=”custom”][us_image image=”15220″ align=”center” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]I have just returned from my second annual trip to Beaver Island, MI. Fantasy land for Carp fishermen. I wasn’t scheduled to go this year, but filled in at the last minute for an angler who had to cancel. Glad I accepted the invite.
While the group was equivalent of last years, the weather was not. MUCH NICER this time around. Sunny skies all days except one made for good water temperatures and great sight fishing. The excellent guides from Indigo Guide Service kept us on fish every day. Some days better than others, but there were no blanks to fill in.
I can’t say enough about the guides and the people of the island. Kevin Morlock, Steve Martinez and Austin Adduci are 3 pro’s, and everywhere you go on Beaver Island you’re treated like a friend and offered a drink.
I’m not going to do an extensive review of this trip. It’s awesome. If you like sight fishing in crystal clear water for big fish, you’ll dig it.
Here’s a few images of the trip. Click on any to open them up in a lightbox.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_grid type=”s” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”12464,12462,12461,12460,12459,12458,12468,12469″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]On the way home, Shawn Conbs and I even hit the Pere Marquette for the famous Hex hatch with veteran guide Walt Grau. The hatch only lasted an hour (then it got really cold), but I was pumped to float a Michigan trout stream for the first time.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12463″ size=”full” link=””][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]If you’re interested in this trip, feel free to ask any question in the comments or by email. It’s a great one, and I will go back again. Again.
Headhunters Fly Shop is in full swing with the $300 Spring Special.
Yes, guided fishing trips and discounted lodging here in Craig Montana. Craig Trout Camp has lodging starting @ $125 and it has become very popular for this 45 day period leading us into the spring rains of May.
Why not take advantage of these discounted full day trips here in central Montana. We have our full guide staff at your disposal with 10 Headhunters guides ready for Missouri River action. Your full time Missouri River fly shop is ready as well. We have a full compliment of winter and spring clothing for any condition that you may encounter.
Lots of our summer guests come on out and warm up their casting arm on rising midge fish, hungry scud eating trout, and streamer causing browns. Check out the lodging site here to line up your Craig Trout Camp stay here in town.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]A quick video from the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks today on the Headhunters Fly Shop Blog.
Winston Greely shoots and produces the videos for the department. Nice short vids about the topic of fish, wildlife,a dn parks. I see a theme there.
I met Winston 17 years ago here on the river. His love of the outdoors and fishing led him down the media path to a fantastic career with the FWP. Pretty cool stuff!
Ag dollars have fallen into 2nd place as recreation has led the way in terms of state dollars in the last decade. Hunter and Angler dollars are important and feed a bundle of Montana families.
We can only say thanks to you folks for making this state part of your lives while supporting the Outdoor Recreation businesses like ourselves.
Our annual much appreciated and welcomed Sprig Special is nearly upon us here fishing Montana’s Missouri River.
Missouri River Guide Beth Langel fishing near Pelican Point last March shows us that the fly fishing season is here. Almost.
While we fish Montana’s Missouri River the entire year we certainly enjoy the spring, summer, and fall the most. Don’t get us wrong, we love winter fishing…just not as much as the rest of the year.
Simply because it is warmer, flip flops are more common, and those aquatic insects emerge daily to satisfy our dry fly addiction!
Yes indeed, cheap fishing and lodging for you and the entire family begins on March 15th. Round up a batch of friends that could be coerced into fishing for $300/day and getting in on some discounted Spring Special lodging too.
We have Craig Trout Camp cabins starting at $125/night with Sutton at $200/night and the Craig House which sleeps 6 going for a scant $350/night. The Beach House and the Trout House both in Craig proper are on sale too! Get in on this yearly spring madness sale and save some money.
The end of April, the last weekend, is full, almost. Before that time frame there are still some terrific guides and lodging options open. Call today to our Spring Special Hotline 406-235-3447.
today a blog from Headhunters Guide Brett Matula. Brett has been with us for about 5 years coming form all over the NW. He has a background in sports education teaching snowboarding and fishing for 15+ years. The last couple winters Brett has been traveling the 5 off months between Missouri River seasons. Skiing and fishing, coupled with international travel will absorb those generally quiet winter months. Thanks for the blog and photos Brett. We can’t wait for your next journey!
Hey Mark…here is the New Zealand Blog and a few photos. Use them as you wish. I spent the last week in the DEEP at Mt. Baker. Now it’s 52 in Glacier, snow’s all shot so I’m back in SEA headed home. I’ve got another blog idea too I’ll get to you asap.
Hello friends! Brett here reporting about my trip to New Zealand with my girl Lena.
Brett with this big NZ Bruiser Brown Trout
When I meet people and they learn I am a fishing guide; a common thing they say is, “It must be so great to FISH for a living!” In truth; most full-time guides hardly get to fish at all. We are merely facilitators of fishing.
This off-season I decided to take a fishing trip I’d been dreaming about for many years. So my girlfriend Lena and I bought our tickets and made our plans to spend 5 weeks on the South Island of New Zealand. The plan was to rent a 4WD vehicle and travel around the South Island backpacking, fishing, camping, and hiking by the seat of our pants.
No plan, no reservations. We’d go where we felt like going, sleep in a tent, and explore the rivers on our own schedule.
Stunning New Zealand – Brett Matula Photo
Let me say that NZ has got to be one of the most spectacularly scenic places in the world. It’s a very young island geologically and the sheer number of mountains, forests, and rivers is staggering. The people are extra-ordinarily friendly. Every farmer we stopped to chat with invited us to fish the river on his property without any hesitation. Drinking in a rural pub was a good way to meet everyone in town.
The fishing itself was extremely challenging. We found ourselves in the midst of one of the rainiest Decembers on record. High rivers and clouds made sight-fishing difficult. Sight-fishing is the thing in NZ.
NZ river crossing Lena photo Brett Matula
There are very few fish in the rivers; so blind fishing doesn’t work. You don’t cast until you see the fish. 16-20 foot leaders are the norm. Many times; I got into position behind a feeding fish, made what I thought was a good cast, only to watch the fish stop feeding and ignore my fly. This can be a little frustrating after hiking for hours between fish.
But we didn’t let the bad weather stop us from getting out and looking around. We hiked day after day in beautiful surroundings; camping along the rivers. And those fleeting moments when a large sighted fish moved on my fly will not soon be forgotten.
Beautiful New Zealand – photo Brett Matula
All in all it was a GREAT trip. And not my last. However I’ll do a few things differently next time. I’ll practice my casting more. I’ll probably hire a guide too. And I’ll hire a helicopter to take us into that stream we spent two days hiking into; only to get cliffed out before reaching it.
But that’s another story.
Big NZ Trout – photo Brett Matula
Thanks for keeping us up to date on your travels Brett. Can’t wait to hear from you soon.
Brett is one of the Headhunters top guides and books well in advance. To book Brett for you summer 2015 Missouri River Montana vacation call 406-235-3447 today! Operators standing by…
Now you are coming home from the Christmas trip. Did you think about your 2015 trip? The time is now. Do it while availability is strong. The months of June and July are nearly booked. The front end of June is still good and the back end of July. The center parts? Booked.
Snow on the ground here in Craig and the phones are ringing. A couple high speed Headhunters Sara, Julie, Braden, Dewey are manning the booking hotline daily. 406-235-3447 or 877-DRY-FLYS
A few of the events coming down the pike as we prepare for the season ahead. This is your gentle nudge to think about your Missouri River trip ahead this summer. Booking in advance guarantees certain things…like lodging and guides.
January
2 Handed Clinic Saturday January 10th. Admission FREE. Limited to 12 participants. Booked through every time. Book your slot today if you would like to attend this very popular clinic.
$400 Winter Guide Trips.
Craig Trout Camp Lodging starting at $125. We have several winter lodging options all with a winter discount. Call for availability.
Headhunters is your 2 Handed Rod Demo Center. We got the fly lines too, lots of ’em to try. Come in for a wide variety of rods from SAGE, Orivis, T & T, Echo.
February
Spring fishing is great!
Midges start late in the month.
February 7th Free 2 Handed Casting and Fishing Clinic. Limited to 12 students.
Midges hopefully daily. Historically at least. Watch for water temps and keep it tuned here for hatch updates as they occur.
Skwalas?
Saturday March 7th our last and final FREE 2 handed Casting and Fishing Clinic. Limited to 12 participants. Call for reservations.
Headhunters Spring Special begins March 15th. $300 Guide Trips thru April 30th. Call to get in on this wildly popular spring discount. Brush up on your skills for the coming summer.
Craig Trout Camp discounted lodging continues thru the end of April. These cabins book quickly. Plan accordingly.
April
Spring Special continues through the month of April. $300 Guide Trips and discounted lodging. Best deals of the year.
Midges. BWO’s show this month. When? A guarantee, or closer to reality would mean middle of the month. On a warm spring, first part of the month. Skwalas too.
May
Rainbows are on the rise. Populations strong.
May is most of the staff’s favorite Missouri River month. Fewer anglers than both April and June with lots of bug action.
Might be the best streamer month of the year.
Craig Caddis Festival and BBQ Cook-Off Saturday May 16th. Afternoon action with live music, BBQ eats, kids events, parade, live and silent auctions, and much more! We’ll see you at the 9th Annual Craig Caddis Festival.
Spring Stream Opener. The Dearborn opens the 3rd Saturday of May and we begin our Dearborn River Guiding Season. A great small stream in our own backyard. Check out the link for more info or call the shop. We love this short and sweet time frame to fish the Dearborn. Some years a month, some years less than a month. Call to get on board for this wilderness adventure.
Nymphing? Rock Star.
Sight fishing for late season Baetis and early lower river caddis. Midges too.
Lighter river pressure for sure.
June
Game Time. 1st or 2nd busiest month of the year. July is the other. Bookings for June and July begin in June or July, the previous year. Long time guests love the action in June high water or not.
River can be higher than you wish. Mother Nature is a hard one to read. Watch the site for our insight into what is happening for the water year ahead. Flows in the last 10 years have been extremely high, extremely low, and a couple of the years coming in at average. But average is not happen often in the last 25 years. So, a crap shoot. A risk that many, many anglers are willing to make.
Dry flies daily. Caddis, PMD’s arrive by the middle of the month. Good to great dry fly fishing depending on the water level. We are looking for under 8K for a very strong dry fly bite.
We start fishing the Blackfoot River across the divide. A great day trip to break up your Missouri River week. A dry fly excursion that all who experience the Blackfoot are glad they did! Ask ay of the shop staff about booking a Blackfoot day or two.
July
Trico Hatches on the Mo July and August
Not a month for the fickle. Combat fishing. If you like solace it is not July. Why so many anglers? Dry fly all day. Honest.
Caddis, PMD’s, Trico’s, terrestrials. The most consistent dry fly bite of the entire year.
4th of July is one big ass party in Craig. Our favorite holiday of the year. Bar-None.
Book today if you want guides or lodging in the month of July, or June. Get it straightened out this week with your family and friends. Not a ton left on the table for lodging, and guides are dwindling fast. We have rental boats too.
Blackfoot River is in full swing. Our guides love to sneak across the divide for a day of Freestone Fishing on the Blackfoot.
August
Good in the front end of the month. Not as strong towards the latter part. Sometimes the water gets too warm for trout comfort and the perennial Missouri River weeds come into play.
Terrestrials, caddis, some PMD action but they are on the decline, Trico’s. Ants and hoppers rule the mid day with Trico’s on the plan every morning.
Get out early for the best fishing of the day.
The Blackfoot makes a lot of sense this month. Before dawn meet times to head over the hill to fish this fantastic river.
September
Big Brown Trout on the Mo!
A very busy month. 4th busiest behind June, July, April. One of our best nymphing months.
Not a ton of dry fly action. Can do well on terrestrials and some Trico falls in the A.M.. Psuedo’s, small BWO’s, can get rolling in the afternoon. But don’t plan on coming to the Missouri to get your dry fly fix.
September is the sleeper month. It books earlier than you would think.
The last and final month of Blackfoot River fishing. Maybe the best of all 4 months. Not much pressure at all and the fall colors are just awesome.
Craig’s 1st Beer Festival Brews and Browns scheduled for the 2nd Saturday of the month. More info as we get closer.
October
Baetis, October Caddis, some midge, Psuedo’s. Good dry fly action. Historically great.
Nymphing is really freaking good.
Streamer fishing is dynamite.
One of the favorite months for long time Missouri River anglers, industry folks, out of work freestone guides, and you. There is a nice pace to October and we like it.
Lodging fills fast. At the time of this post October already has some ink on the calendar.
There is the entire year. Hatch periods are pretty consistent and our blog, this blog, has updates in regards to fishing, hatches, lodging, and guiding, and more! Not every event is listed like our impromptu Drift Boat Drive-Ins, Headhunters Free BBQ nights throughout the summer, live music, and all around hilarity on the grounds of Headhunters Fly Shop.
These are pretty strong outlines of the year but some of you may need even more information about types of lodging or setting up a group trip. We make it easy for you throughout the entire process. We are the Missouri River experts. If you need any additional information you can email us info@headhuntersflyshop.com or give us a shout on the Missouri River Hotline 406-235-3447 8-5 daily.
The most recent issue of Catch Magazine is out now. As usual, great imagery from Brian and Todd. Tarpon, trout and a bad dam in Chile. If you haven’t paid for the 1 year subscription, do it.
Catch ain’t the only eMag out there. We also like Flymage and This is Fly. If you’re a Caveman and like to flip real pages, check out The Drake or Flyfish Journal. I probably missed some other cool ones. It’s winter, so you have time to find them yourself…
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]I’m sitting in the Traverse City, MI airport with Alex Landeen(above), waiting for our respective flights home. Alex to Tuscon, myself to Great Falls. We’ve both got our laptops out and are reviewing the images and video we captured on our first trip to Beaver Island. The typical verbal recap is going on as well. We both agree it’s an incredible place. Incredible.
I feel a little hungover, but I’m not. It’s more of a “cumulative” hangover from a week of fishing, dining and drinking with a great crew.
[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5543″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Kevin Morlock (left) and Cameron Mortenson (right) heading out onto the flats on a rare calm morning.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]
The Island
Kevin Morlock runs a pro-operation along with guides Steve Martinez and Austin Adduci. Gear, flies, knowledge and – most importantly – company were all top shelf. Not only did they show us the fishing, they spent the evenings showing us around Beaver Island’s eating and drinking establishments. Definitely putting in long days, but as they put it, “Island Life” is a big part of the Beaver Island experience. By the end of the week, you feel like your part of the community.
We also had the chance to eat dinner (it was great everywhere) with Steve West from the Beaver Island Chamber of Commerce, who shared his thoughts on what makes Beaver Island so special. He pointed out that along with the great hunting (turkey’s, anyone?)and fishing, BI is a great family destination. Our guides agreed, and all have their families out for a week of island life during the 4th of July week.
Cameron and Kevin arranged lodging at the Fisherman’s House, a chill cottage right across from the harbor on the main drag. We walked everywhere, and because crime is non-existent in this paradise, left our gear out on the front porch. I think I was buzzed enough that I left my camera gear out there as well a time or two.
Instead of taking the ferry, we flew out on Island Airways, and the crew there was friendly and accommodating. I hear the 2.5 hour ferry ride is a blast as well, especially if you bring a few “boat drinks”.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”5449″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]
The Fishing
It’s really hard to describe the fishing at Beaver Island. I had read about it, and the idyllic descriptions of “flats that make you think you’re in the Carribean” seemed overstated. They’re not. We had some rough weather during the week, but when the sun popped out, it did not seem like the Great Lakes. The flats are smooth and blue, and the water is as clear as any I’ve ever fished.
The Carp here are big, and they can be aggressive. They feed on small invasive fish called Goby’s, which remind me of the many small “bullheads” I caught growing up on the Puget Sound. So this isn’t nymph or slow leech Carp fishing. The flies are big. Bigger and heavier than most Permit flies. The fish hunt and chase. Bring your 9 weight.
We fished on foot and from the boat. Both were productive. I usually prefer fishing from the boat with some eyes up on the platform, but the fish are so easy to spot and the flats so wadeable that being on foot would be my choice. Looking for Carp in rough water on downwind beaches was a blast.
The fishing here is going to appeal to the sight-fishing and saltwater crowd. If you’re a “body-count” fisherman, it may be a little tougher than you want. Casts need to be long and accurate. Not easy with the heavy flies and long leaders we often threw at deep tailing fish. Body-count anglers would love the Smallmouth fishing that takes place a little later in the year, however.
While the fish and the fishing are great, all three of our guides acknowledged that the island and the community were a big part of what makes the Beaver Island experience so special. Agreed.[/vc_column_text][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/98947199″][us_separator icon=”fas|star” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid type=”masonry” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”5446,5448,5452,5551,5552,5553,5554,5555″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]
Would I go Back?
Absolutely. Especially with a great crew like we had on this trip. I was hesitant to participate in a trip with a group of anglers unknown to me, but Cameron nailed it. Combined with an excellent bunch of guides, it was perfect despite some nasty weather that chilled the water and our fishing.
And don’t forget that this is coming from a guy who has been know to dis’ Carp fishing. But this is so cool. I’m changing my mind, at least at this location.
I could see doing Beaver Island with my hardcore Keys buddies, or with my wife and daughter.
MORE
Check out Alex Landeen’s great photo’s and writing about our trip to Beaver Island as well.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
So I get invited to go on this Carp fishing trip by me friend Cameron Mortenson of the Fiberglass Manifesto. It’s to a place called Beaver Island, which sits in the middle of Lake Michigan. I’ve heard of it, and to Carp fly fishing fanatics it’s legendary. Kinda like the “Seychelles of Carp Fishing”.
Several months ago I accepted the invite. Now I’m there. Or here?
Guide Steve Martinez pushes Cameron Mortenson across a Great Lakes flat.
Headhunters Fly Shop & Guide Service Annual Spring Special begins March 15th and runs thru April 30th. $300 Guide Trips with your favorite Headhunters Guides. Try on our LOG Trips for $495 with Captain Ryan McCourtney. Yep, Ryan says bring it on. “Fishing is just great in April and I want to introduce a few … Read more
You know we love to fish for Redfish in Louisiana. Mark and I got weathered out in December and had to cancel our trip. Fortunately, Headhunters guide JP Basile and his wife Teal are making up for it this week. They’re fishing The Port Sulpher area with Capt. Alec Griffin.
Our good bud Teal Basile holds a fat Louisianan Redfish caught yesterday. Look familiar? You’ve seen her around the shop, and you saw her in the last issue of the Drake. Way to go Teal! – photo by JP Basile
The summer will be upon us sooner than we would like to think. The winter can move very slowly, the spring somewhat quicker. We are winter fishing here on the Missouri, as we do all year, and our mind can be numbed by the bitter cold temps, winter winds, and short days. Let me remind … Read more
A cool video that has been out a couple years. Worth the 10 minutes on this Christmas Eve. Any Saltwater plans in your future? Well if there are this holiday period, we wish you the best. It’s Tuesday. The holidays are here and stop working now. Most of you are anyway. Enjoy Itu’s Bones today … Read more
50 Best Tailwaters to Fish by Terry Gunn is here in the shop. A good read this Holiday PEriod about many, well 50 Tailwaters. Is the Missouri River included? Well, hell yah. It is one of the Top 5. Right? While we are biased we believe it to be #1. If you can’t love yourself … Read more
Ninch said to me the other day…you should write a blog about the Missouri River Summer Lodging conundrum soon. You like PMD’s like the photo above? Caddis hatches dawn til dusk? Being able to walk to all the fly shops, dinner, and Joe’s Bar? Yah, we do too! So, here we go. Announcing that Missouri … Read more
Tomorrow Night the Missouri River Flyfishers present April Vokey @ Great Falls Real Estate Association 401 13th Ave. Sth. Be there @ 730 for the presentation Missouri River Flyfishers is pleased to welcome our November genreal meeting guest speaker and fly tier, April Vokey of Fly Gal Ventures. April will be speaking on fly fishing for … Read more
Headhunters Fly Shop & Guide Service hosted the RIO Products team this year here in Craig fishing the Mighty Missouri River this last month of October. A fun time had by all. RIO hosts a number of dealers from around this great country. Vail Valley Anglers, Mend Provisions in South Minneapolis, Shultz Outfitters in Michigan, … Read more
We don’t re-post content from other blogs much anymore. Plenty of other fly fishing blogs do. You can check out Moldy Chum or The Fiberglass Manifesto and pretty much see everything of interest that pertains to fly fishing and conservation. But yesterday this great post came across our feeds from the great saltwater blog at Skinny … Read more
Back in the shop after a long day of travel from the legendary Restigouche River in New Brunswick, Canada. Ben Hardy and I made the long trip back east to experience the fly fishing for Atlantic Salmon on one of the best big Salmon rivers in the world. We typically head to Northern BC this … Read more
I’m sitting here booking a flight to New Orleans to fly fish for Redfish with my buddy Bo Meador this fall. Love me some Redfish, and autumn is the time. Cooler water means big bull reds. Big, angry and dumb. How can you not book the trip when Bo send’s you pics like the one … Read more
