We have the SIMMS G3 Waders in stock daily here at Headhunters in Craig.
It certainly is the time of year when flip flops and board shorts do no apply.
Swing Season is here and we love it. And to love it even longer we need a pair of great waders. The G3 fits that bill.
We have all 22 sizes of SIMMS G3 waders in stock. Come by and try them on. You can find the wader that fits you the best. Only SIMMS has the sizes available for everybody! And, Made in the USA. The only wader made in the states.
This release video is from a couple years ago, but outlines the G3 wader well. Come in and say hello, try on a pair of G3 waders and head out on the quiet waters of the Missouri River this late season.
The legendary Rainbow Czech was popularized on the Missouri River by the crew at Headhunters. Works every day of the year. We’ve put together this Rainbow Czech Nymph Fly Tying kit that will allow you to tie up 2 dozen flies for your next fishing trip.
This fly is tied on to so many fishermen on the Missouri it will boggle you mind. Blown man.
The reason? This fly works 24/7. Honest.
Our number 1 selling fly pattern in the store too. The reason? This fly rules.
Tie it up in sizes 10-20 for all season, shoot all year long, angling success.
Our JUST ADD “VISE” fly tying kits are super popular and this one is no different. These kits are designed for tyers who have grasped the basic moves of fly tying, and are priced just as if you bought the materials individually. The package comes with everything needed to tie 2 dozen flies, and has a material list included so you can re-supply when needed. You can watch our short “how-to” videos if you need help with a step or two. These are just fantastic, and are great for those camped out on the Missouri River. Just make sure you have your vice, scissors and bobbin. If not, we have that stuff as well!
Order this and a few others for your late Autumn tying session. Then visit us not he Mo for the best November treat you could ever dream of.
SIMMS waders made int eh USA, and fixed in Bozeman Montana.
Try picking put the phone and getting someone to answer questions about your overseas made wader?
When we have problems we just pop them in the mail and let the pros take care of it.
Chris Golz is one of the masterful team in Bozeman. If you are ever in the neighborhood you should stop in for a tour of the wader making facility. Totally worth the time. Pretty cool stuff.
Enjoy your Saturday. It is wonderful here on the Mo. A bit windy today though…
Want to get in on our comprehensive wader selection while in Craig? We have your size. 22 sizes in stock...everyday.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoYApfoq9mc”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid columns=”3″ orderby=”title” order=”” ids=”6756, 6835, 8226″ post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/182807553″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Pat Clayton – CEO at Fisheyeguy Photography – and I put together another “Life Aquatic” nature video, this time featuring some of the original Montana natives… Bull Trout. Took some work and some bushwhacking but we got some very nice footage, and of course Pat’s incredible underwater still images. And this is Pat’s first serious effort with some underwater video. Really cool watching big Bull Trout pay Pat no never mind. That’s what Apex predators do.
If you like Pat’s images – and you’re a social media buff – I highly recommend following him on Facebook. Great images, humor and some conservation commentary. I’ve said it before, but Pat’s devotion to trout and the rivers they inhabit is incredible.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]A Scumliner Classic today to greet you into July on the Missouri River.
July means bugs. july means Trico’s. July means early mornings. July means fun.
Lots folks around during this the busiest month of the year.
Bring your sunglasses, sunscreen, dry fly rod, and reach cast.
Big ass BBQ on the 4th at Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig. 4-8pm. Come on by and say hello. Cast a bit at the Craig Casting Club. Tell fish stories.
Enjoy July wherever you are. The best of summer. Enjoy your weekend.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/101744402″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Wednesday Missouri River Montana Fishing Report Damn good dry fly fishing. Most of the anglers I saw on Tuesday were toying with the dry fly. Good on them. Wednesday should be the same, with less wind. The wind came up about noon yesterday scaring most of the anglers into an early departure. Saving up … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/171623459″][vc_column_text]I’ve spent a little time walking around in the woods with Pat Clayton this spring and early summer. Fishing the mountains and looking for interesting things to take pictures of. For those who don’t know, Pat Clayton is the worlds underwater trout photographer. You probably know whim as “Fisheye Guy Photography“. Last week we were chasing Cutthroat around in some high elevation streams and lakes, and ran into this incredible spawning ritual. Dead-centered it, as they say. Pat began taking some of his superb still images, and after doing the same from above the water, I decided to shoot some video of this incredible scene. I could have sat there and watched this for a couple of days.
Wait, I did…
And no, we did not fish. They spawnin’!
When I got home, I decided there was enough material for a short edit. A kind of “tribute’ to our native Cutthroat Trout, and the Summer Solstice. Many in the Northern Rockies associate Cutthroat Trout with Wilderness. Much the same that Elk and Grizzlies are symbolic of the backcountry. We’ve combined Pat’s underwater still photography (always incredible) with my video to produce this “unfishing” production. If you’re serious about trout, the environment, native species and habitat, you’ll probably dig it. And if you love high-elevation Cutthroat Trout you’ll really dig it. If you’re looking for some hip-hop (or banjo’s?) and millennial, flat-brimmed, bearded, badassery – you’ll have to look elsewhere. There’s no fishing in this one.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]This is full time business for Pat. He’s a Fine Artist, and makes the majority of his income selling large prints. Constantly on the lookout for new subjects and places to shoot, he is either a) hiking the high country and looking for underwater photography opportunities, or b) at home on the computer editing those images, or c) scouring the back-allies of Bozeman and Livingston for high-lake intel. In the winter he skis. It’s been quite an experience for me to tag along on a few of his missions. Seen some awfully cool stuff this spring.
You can too. But you can’t drive to these spots, and there’s no fly shop or shuttles available. You won’t get an up to date fishing report except from yourself. Pat and I have failed, succeeded and hit a couple of home runs this spring. So put on your boots and go, it’s pretty fun stuff.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Headed over the mountain this morning to the Blackfoot River.
The big bugs are coming off. So we hope that the orange monsters are keeping those cutthroats busy.
Gotta go to know.
It is always worth the trip…
As for the Mighty Mo we see very good dry fly angling available. Are all of the fish looking toward the surface? No. But enough are poking their noses through the surface film.
Caddis and PMD’s are the key. Crips, emergers, and spinners. Not new news. Just a reminder that the trout on the Mo like the fly trapped in the film.
Buzzballs?
No negative reinforcement from the Buzzball. No wing profile, no body silhouette type, no bad shit at all. Just a good meal for an honest rise.
A few tips for getting a better bite on the Mo? Go out after 10am. No rush in the morning for the dry flies as of yet. As the spinners become an event we will be out earlier. But until then head out after the crowd and wander around finding a few singles and the crescendo to Valhalla.
Easy peasy.
Fishing is good all over the state. Enjoy Montana this summer and look us up if you are in the neighborhood.
Open daily 7-9. We are dedicated to the sport of fly in Craig MT.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Lots of Headhunters around this month on the Mo. A recent tool of choice?
The PULSE by Sage. My dentist just bought one yesterday.
He’s sold.
He said the PULSE is only half the price of a root canal.
We are too. Our best selling Sage rod this year, and last too. Gotta get your hands on one here at Headhunters. We have the demo rods ready to go. Or just pop in and take one out for keeps. At $450 it is hard to say no. No?
Headhunters are honing their skills for the next ten weeks fishing Montana’s Missouri River. Think bout your tools and whether you want to step it up this year. Casting lessons? Practicing in your cast in the yard? Tying dry fly leaders? Or just fantasizing about sipping trout.
Come on out and make your fantasies into reality this summer with a Sage in your hand.
Enjoy your Sunday if it is not on the river here in central Montana. Enjoy the Sage PULSE video shot right here on the Mighty Mo.
With a Sage PULSE in hand.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/162552341″][/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]
The Sage PULSE video featuring Mark from Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig Montana.
Come in and test one out if you wish. We love both the Sage PULSE 590-4 and the 690-4. Perfect rods for the Missouri River or your river.
Graphite IIIe will remind you of your favorite rod. Why not make new memories with a new Sage PULSE.
Headhunters is the place for your next fly fishing visit. The fly shop has all you need for the Missouri River and beyond. One stop lodging, guiding, rental boats, Sage fly rods, including the most contemporary fly selection in Montana.
Enjoy the Sage PULSE Video today on the Headhunters Blog.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/162552341″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]From a few years ago. This summer fly fishing, el SOL, short from Scumliner Media will get your blood pumping.
It is just barely spring but we suggest you think about your summer plans. Or put it off another month.
Check out a couple other videos today including the March Mobile Fishing Report or view it on the sidebar of the homepage or the blog page.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/69415236″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Braden Lewis is bringing us the Mobile Fishing Report for mid-March. Fishing continues to change with the seasons as we move from winter to spring. Nymphs, streamers and now… dries. We should be talking about mayflies on next months video report. You can always find this embedded on the home page as well as the blog sidebar.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_raw_html]JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZwbGF5ZXIudmltZW8uY29tJTJGdmlkZW8lMkYxNTk1NTY2ODIlM0Zwb3J0cmFpdCUzRDAlMjIlMjB3aWR0aCUzRCUyMjMwMCUyMiUyMGhlaWdodCUzRCUyMjUzMyUyMiUyMGZyYW1lYm9yZGVyJTNEJTIyMCUyMiUyMHdlYmtpdGFsbG93ZnVsbHNjcmVlbiUyMG1vemFsbG93ZnVsbHNjcmVlbiUyMGFsbG93ZnVsbHNjcmVlbiUzRSUzQyUyRmlmcmFtZSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Montana Fishing Film Festival Teaser ’16 The Montana Fishing Film Festival Teaser ’16 today on the Headhunters Fly Fishing Blog. We will be again hosting this event on Friday Night May 20th at about 8pm. Come out and enjoy this Headhunters sponsored party under the big top in the Craig Courtyard. Located between Joe’s Bar … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] X Caddis JAV Kit The X Caddis is a killer fly! Still a couple months away from needing this bug. But I truly believe that the X Caddis originally tied by Craig Mathews is one of the 5 caddis you will ever need. Rides low in the water, visible to those who can still … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Howler Bros Spring ’16 Collection Back at you this Friday with the Howler Bros Spring ’16 Collection. If you are not revved up for sun, longer days, and of course longer nights the arrival of the Spring Howler Collection might push you over the edge. Look for a few key Howler Bros items coming … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]If you check out the home page of the Headhunters Website today, you see a tall skinny video in the blog section, featuring our new Mobile Video Fishing Report. We’ve threatened to do this for years. Looks like we’re actually following through. Instead of a detailed fishing report, this will be more of a monthly overview of the conditions we are experiencing, and those you should expect. Hopefully you’ll enjoy some nice footage along the way.
We’re also going to use this to feature some of our staff and guides. But don’t worry, I’m sure Mark and others you’re familiar with will be reporting as well.
Why is it tall and skinny? Check it out on you mobile device and you’ll see why. Easy to watch full screen with one hand. No turning your device sideways. Of course you can still watch it on your desktop.
This is referred to as “vertical video” and is very controversial among film makers. Meaning they hate it. But like a lot of folks, I watch many (most?) videos on my phone. It makes sense. Think about it.
And for those wondering why, almost half of our website visits are on mobile devices. An indication of both our customers tech-saviness and age, and hopefully a result of the hard work we’ve put in trying to keep our site mobile friendly.
And for the first test edition, here’s Shane Wilson who hammered them on nymphs the other day when we filmed this. He’s dialed…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_raw_html]JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZwbGF5ZXIudmltZW8uY29tJTJGdmlkZW8lMkYxNTYwMDM2NjMlM0ZieWxpbmUlM0QwJTI2cG9ydHJhaXQlM0QwJTIyJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjIzMDAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjI1MzMlMjIlMjBmcmFtZWJvcmRlciUzRCUyMjAlMjIlMjB3ZWJraXRhbGxvd2Z1bGxzY3JlZW4lMjBtb3phbGxvd2Z1bGxzY3JlZW4lMjBhbGxvd2Z1bGxzY3JlZW4lM0UlM0MlMkZpZnJhbWUlM0U=[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Lots of these flies swinging on the Missouri River the last couple months. So therefore the Just Add Vise Kits are moving too. Many ordered online. A great way to go. Order it today and POOF! it will be on your doorstep in a couple days. Before you even know it! The Foxee Minnow is … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Killer Steelhead video from Scumliner Media today on the Headhunters Blog.
This is a few years old. I watch the Scumliner Headhunters videos often. They really are cool.
We love the 2 handed game all winter long here fishing Montana’s Missouri River. Another fully booked Trout Spey Casting Clinic this Saturday at Headhunters Saturday. The March session is also totally booked. Fortunately we have room as we host Mike McCune and Whitney Gould Spey Clinic April 29, 30 & May 1st for their ever popular Sustained Anchor Clinics. These specialized lessons are available for $200/day and reservation only.
Enjoy your Wednesday. It sure is nice to be in the most boring month of the year. February.
Think about it. Let “Tailout” cheer you right up.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/62118271″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Coming up in Helena February 5th. Spokane, Seattle for couple nights and then Helena.
The 10th Annual run across America the F3T has become a favorite for many winter anglers needing a fly fishing fix.
Enjoy it in your town this winter and spring.
Remember the Montana Fishing Film Tour stop in Craig Friday night May 20th at dusk. A BBQ, SIMMS, Montana Fly Company, and Headhunters Fly Shop will host this evening event with tons of swag too. Come out and enjoy the films the night before the 10th Annual Craig Caddis Festival & BBQ Cook-Off.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/149052846″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[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]Ninch wanted me to shout this out to our Headhunters followers. The Zebra Midge I said? It’s so simple and easy to tie. Why would we post this on our blog. While we love Trout Fishing 101 I thought that it was old news.
Ninch nodded then explained to me that while it is an easy fly to tie it is still an important daily, weekly, staple pattern that we all should have in our box. Not only the simple traditional black Zebra but other flavors as well.
Ninch said that this kit while coming with the standard 25 hooks that all JAV kits include it has the addition of 4 thread colors. Black, red, olive, and purple. Find yourself a few boxes of size 20 hooks and spin ’em up.
Ninch also said that if you tie up all the thread in this kit the per fly cost falls below the 50 cent mark. Well below.
Ninch then said that if you switch up wire colors you can now create literally dozens of patterns. Add mylar, tinsel, or any number of different synthetics to the game and the possibilities are endless for midge creation.
So I said to Ninch, “Why don’t you write a blog about it?” He shook his head, paused, then nodded towards me. In Ninch silent speak that clearly meant that I would be writing the blog.
Ninch wins again.
Buy the Zebra Midge Just Add Vise kit below or here on the on-line store.
Headhunters very own Fly Tying Kits for your winter fly tying consumption.
Winter is a good time to tie up a box full of the #1 selling fly on the Missouri River.
It is losing ground to a few other popular nymphs like the Little Green Machine and the ever popular Zebra Midge. But a strong player all 12 months of the year.
Tie it up in #10 thru #18 with varying weights. We love it as a lead, or top, fly nearly daily. It goes through hot and cold periods but for the most part the Rainbow Czech Nymph brings it daily. Certainly the most consistent fly we have ever fished.
The Just Add Vise Kit includes everything you need to tie the fly including 25 oohs. The thread, dubbing, the beads, and so on. Then watch the video and pump out some killer flies.
Use the video as a reference and get your Just Add Vise Kits from Headhunters. Order it up online.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/122361553″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid columns=”3″ orderby=”title” order=”” ids=”11096, 11104, 11115″ post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Cool video today from up on the Bob. This gang really has some balls, and legs. Makes us here on the Mo look lazy. Towing boats behind SUV’s!
Wild Confluence Films brings us this pleasant video on this snowy and cold Friday in central Montana. Enjoy.
6 friends set out into Montana’s legendary Bob Marshall wilderness to float and fly fish the pristine South Fork Flathead River. Two days of hiking takes the crew 25 miles up the banks of this roadless river. On the 3rd day the team inflates their pack rafts and begins the float on this wild river. The fishing does not disappoint, and the Wild Confluence crew dines on cutthroat trout each night. The 4 day float back to the trailhead is cut short on the final night when the team learns that the nearby wildfires have begun to rage toward them (several photos capture the smokey sky and orange glow of the fire). The out of control fire burns four miles away, nearly destroying their cars in the parking lot but luckily doesn’t incinerate them! The team is forced to evacuate – hiking thirty miles in a day over a seldom traveled 8000 foot pass to escape the wildfire.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Headhunters old friend and GoPro Jedi Ivan at “Yukon Goes Fishing” just released a smooth winter fishing video, “Cold Dry”. Looks like Ivan is behind the camera instead of wearing it these days. No GoPro? Who cares, good video with classic YGF vibe.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/150736494″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
I picked up my new Adipose Flow yesterday. I’m pretty stoked.
Not long ago I thought I would row my Clackacraft Guide LP for life. I would have been just fine if had not rowed the Adipose Flow. Then, I became a believer.
Out with the old and in with the new. See you down the river old girl…
No compromises is the Adipose Mantra. I’m on board. Truly a perfect boat for our fine river. The skiff style has come on strong he past 10 years. All of the popular boat manufacturers offer a skiff design and Adipose is no different. Except Adipose does not offer anything but the skiff. No pointy ended type boats.
I once shot a TV show called The Gypsy Angler with Stu Apte. I had just started rowing my Adipose Flow. I was washing it out before the first day of shooting and the producer walked up to me and asked where my boat was. I said that he was looking at it. He then stated that it would not work for the show. I of course asked why not? And he said that the viewers would identify more with one of those Montana pointy ended boats more than this floating sandbox!
So we did the show with the sandbox. Much to the producers chagrin.
Not that I’m stubborn…
So I have my second new drifter in 4 years. Would I have rowed that one til I was buried at sea? Yes. But with some of the advances in the last couple years at Adipose I upgraded, bit the bullet, and got myself into a new one.
Adipose always Improving
Some cool new tweaks include a touch higher knee brace. Better shaped knee brace with a more defined hip and leg grabber. Positive closing side compartments. Narrower tolerances with the knee brace tubes. Way more solid. Improved trailer rollers with smooth bearings allowing easier cranking at the end of the day. Side tray locks. Double front seat option and many more.
Bass seat fitted for the hardcore streamer anglers of the Mighty Missouri River
The fit and finish is continually improving as well. Not really all that noticeable to the untrained eye but overall appearance is tight. A sound craft for sure.
Did you see the image to the right? My new bass seat option for hardcore streamer anglers. If you like to strip steamers you know that there is a ton of line at your feet, wrapped around the seat if you are standing, and tangles happen way too often. So two years ago a guest and I brainstormed this idea up. Why not put a tiny bass seat on the front or rear seat and rest on the seat using it as your third point for balance and cast away? Would it reduce line tangles on the seat? Would it work? Would it solve some of the problems?
I don’t know yet because the boat has a cover on it and is resting in my front yard full of snow. The river is slushy up to Craig. Really icebergy out there with shelf ice breaking from the shore and creating shelf ice islands floating throughout the river. But, I expect to put the boat in the water in the next week and test that bass seat out. The beauty is that the seats switch out easily (you can see the regular seat on the floor behind the bass seat) and I have the normal ultra comfortable seats ready to go. So a report will follow in the front end of 2016.
Outside Media who produces TroutTV just picked up Adipose as a sponsor. Look forward to seeing them drifting, fishing, and shooting around Montana and beyond in the Adipose Flow.
Row the Adipose Flow @ Headhunters Fly Shop
All of our rental boats are Adipose Flow Skiffs. Te perfect match for a tailwater river like ours. After using Clackacraft boats for rentals a few years the Adipose Concept was hatched on our deck with help of Headhuntes own John Arnold. He put together Tracy Allen and Mike Ward with a few beers from our now missing YETI cooler and one year later we had Adipose Boatworks manufacturing the updated High Country Drifters in the form of the Adipose Flow Skiff.
Clients enjoy the ease of rowing and freedom of movement as the two top reasons it has become a Montana river favorite. Now Adipose has boats all over the country and continues to grow in local, regional, and national popularity.
These fellers are great to work with with General Manager Justin at the helm these days and Marcie up front. Mike and Tracy are around but also pursuing other side projects. After huffing resin fumes for a few years everybody needs a break. Give Justin a call and get your new 2016 boat in the mold!
Today on the Headhunters Fly Shop Blog we tie the Pink Lightning Bug. In conjunction with our popular Just Add Vise brand this video is purely simple. No talking, no postulating about materials, and no lengthly 13 minute tying videos here.
Short and sweet. Just the way you like it. Play it over and over if you wish without listening to the same lame tying jokes…what is a tying joke anyway?
This Pink Lightning Bug is one of the most effective Missouri River winter flies. Great anywhere, and any river USA. Pink is the color of winter. And all this time you thought it was the color of snow.
When snow is on the ground, think pink.
The Pink Lightning Bug is just one of the Just Add Vise kit members. Anglers and tiers also like the Rainbow Czech, Little Green Machine, Firebead Ray Charles, and Kreelex for winter work. And do not forget about the Mozuri Minnow! All available at our online web store.
We think that Dangerous Dan Gard brought this fly to the Missouri River. It really is a killer for 8 months of the year. November 1st through the historically high water month of May. Some even fish it into June. Others even longer. A fantastic fly for the subsurface set.
If you can tie this one you can tie the other Missouri River favorites like any of the Pheasant Tail derivations and the summertime trout finder the Purple Lightning Bug. Why not have them all in your repertoire.
The Pink Lightning Bug is not the only winter time fly of choice. Come in and see our vast selection of winter flavored flies for any winter fishery. Ninch, Braden, Sara, and Dewey can point you in the right direction. Pick up a couple Just Add Vise kits as well.
Fly Tying Night in America starts in January. Stay tuned for the Wednesday night tying sessions hosted by Headhunters Fly Shop.
Cold again here in Craig this morning. 26F is the projected hi temp and we have already achieved that.
I was out swinging yesterday afternoon. It was tough enduring the holiday weather conditions. Just 24F with a slight north wind. Chilly for sure. Along with the wind chill the ever growing ice clogging the guides I was at my personal comfort limit.
But, not impossible by any means. At least 10 vehicles out and about fishing the Mo yesterday and we should expect vacationing anglers from the regional area to sneak down for a quick fishing session.
The Headhunters gang is fishing in this video. Sara, Beth, Ninch, Mark, E Bitty fished a year ago November in the cold. As you’ll witness the video includes shelf ice, steam coming off the water, and lots of fish. Winter in Montana is made for skiing, hunting, snowshoeing, and swinging for trout.
Most of you should be traveling, hopefully to warmer climates for the holidays. And we know that most of you view this blog on your handheld devices so I thought I should post Scumliner Media Switch it Up trout Spey video today for you airport viewing pleasure.It really is a beautiful video. You may want to watch it twice.
We are open today til 6pm and tomorrow Christmas Eve we will be celebrating in the shop until about noon. Closed for Christmas Day and open again on Saturday morning @ 8am.
Safe travels to all you Headhunters out there. Enjoy Switch it Up! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/113932956″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
It is a Montana Fishing Film Festival official selection for 2016. You will remember the traveling Montana Fishing Film Festival from PMD Productions that Headhunters Fly Shop hosted the last couple years.
This last year the night before the annual Craig Caddis Festival. We will again host the Montana Fishing Film Festival Friday night May 20th. And again the night before the 10th Annual Craig Caddis Festival Saturday May 21st in Craig @ 4pm.
Enjoy this short tease if you are at work in this Monday morning. It will be OK if you are not all that focussed this week. It is the holidays…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/149314385″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We have entered the 6 month countdown until the PMD’s arrive.
And I for one am damn excited. We have snow on the ground, high temps sometimes exceeding 40F, w/ a side of a brisk and chewy breeze.
Historically the PMD’s emerge sometime around the beginning of the 3rd week in June. We could see a rogue bug or two in late May. But that is just the first Pale Morning Dun tease. A few more show in the 1st week. Again just flirting with us.
In a few days we also will enjoy the shortest day of the year. Conversely in six months we will enjoy the warm sunny days of summer. The longest day of year and the summer solstice. Did I mention the daily PMD hatches?
Todd Moen shows us SW Montana. We of course are here in central Montana on the Mighty Missouri River. IT is just like the video, but 50 times bigger.
Our large and long dry fly flats can have the feeling of an intimate environment just like the video. We truly love the summer time here fishing Montana’s Mega Hatch river.
Lots of interest in the New SIMMS Bulkley Jacket this season. With the recent advent of winter, it has been brewing but now it has certainly arrived, this insulated SIMMS wading jacket has received positive reviews from both the staff and Missouri River anglers.
The SIMMS Bulkley Jacket is an upgrade from the preivious model. Now insulated with Primaloft this will keep you warm in all but the coldest fishing situations. The previous model was not insulated, just a shell. This is a vast improvement!
I’ve been fishing and hanging and chillin’ in this jacket for about 3 months now. Just love it. Far better than I had imagined. Really enjoy this piece. I usually layer up under the SIMMS Bulkley Jacket. I have been wearing a base layer with a wool top or hoody. Works quite well.
The length is just right for deeper wade fishing. We have not experienced high water in a few years but in this lower water era the Bulkley allows for exploratory wading without dampening your pocketed gear. High side pockets give you a place to keep your hand warmers. Better to keep those hands warm!
The external bellowed side zip chest pockets are roomy enough for larger fly boxes, tippet spools, GINK, and cigars. And that is it for pockets. You won’t lose too much gear because of the common fly fishing practice of over-pocketing. An added attraction is the YKK Aquaguard Vislon zippers will not let water enter your flies get damp.
Perfectly comfortable in the cold, or the sleet, or the rain!
The killer features that I love about the SIMMS Bulkley Jacket include the dual draw cord bottom of the jacket. Pull on it and the bottom tightens up. A single handed release allows the garment to relax. The same dual draw cord system for the hood allows the angler to pull on one cord tightening up the hood for those nasty upstream winter winds. Then a single pressure point loosens the hood for easy removal. Again in the rear of the hood is the same type of mechanism. Tug on a single cord and the volume of the hood is reduced. So the problem of an uncomfortable hood situation has been remedied with the SIMMS Bulkley Jacket.
Two layer Gore-Tex keeps this piece lighter than your average insulated wading jacket. And who does not love the Gore-Tex brand. Rain, snow, sleet, or whatever Old Man Winter can throw at you will be dashed.
Most folks just love the Primaloft Silver insulation with 100g in the body, 60g in both the hood and sleeves. Just like wool Primaloft insulation retains its insulating properties when wet. So, if you gal in, you’ll be good. A reminder…don’t fall in.
One thing that drives me nuts about most cuff systems is that they really don’t work and your line catches the Velcro tabs. But, no worries here man. The Shingle Cuff internal cuff system is bomber. Not only does the neoprene lined sleeve bottom provide a water tight barrier the velcro tightening system is rock solid. The Shingle Cuff is the way!
HEADHUNTERS STAFF SAYS: The Bulkley has long been a shop staff favorite, although we acknowledged it wasn’t the nicest jacket out there. For 2015 Simms has completely revamped the insulated Bulkley Jacket, and we would argue it is now one of the nicest fishing jackets we’ve ever seen! Quality construction using GORE-TEX and Primaloft create a super warm and dry jacket for off-season conditions. Whether you’re stomping through the rainforest in BC or trudging through thigh-deep snow in Montana, the Simms Bulkley jacket will keep you comfortable. We see the significant price increase as justified, considering the high quality of the new jacket, and the fact that we wear these nearly every day during the winter months.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Mike McCune does an excellent job of covering the primary methods we use to add action to the fly when swinging for trout with our two-handers. You also get to watch some excellent, relaxed, compact, troutspey casting. Watch enough and you might get pretty good.
This may be one of the most oft asked questions we get at the shop. “We understand the cast, but how do we fish the fly?” As Mike says in the video, imparting some action to your fly usually makes a big difference when fishing for trout. If you try to use a dead “Steelhead Swing”, more often than not you’ll have fewer fish come to the fly.
The first “jigging” motion is the main retrieve the Headhunters crew uses on the Missouri River. You can do this with your running line under your rod index finger, or do it independently like Mike. When using mono running line you will want to make a half wrap around your fingers so it doesn’t slip when a fish takes.
We also use his upstream “Madison” retrieve is certain situations, but as Mike states, we use them all and they all work.
Watch the video below.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/146467809″][vc_column_text]Here endeth the lesson.[/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]
By some accounts, Joey Maxim died on November 21st, 2011. The car crash was horrific, so bad in fact that both of his lungs collapsed and his vertebrae touched, pinching his spine and leaving him unresponsive to paramedics at the scene. While machines sustained his body over the next few days, his family was told that he could be a vegetable. Doctors said that if he made it at all, he would likely not walk or talk the same ever again. But this story is not about how he survived. This is a story about how he found a way to live.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/136022860″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]If you want to learn more about their project and how you can support it, here is the link to their Kickstarter Page.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Come out and try the NRS Freestone today.
You want one? We got ’em.
Our DEMO Boat is for sale and you can take it on home on the M&M trailer or put it on your Snowmobile trailer. Either is a great idea. One in the box can be shipped to you for $5495. Easy peasy and you can inflate it for the weekend!
This boat weighs about 250lbs fully set up. Remarkable. You can rig it and toss it over the fence with your fishing buddy. That makes this boat perfect for those who like to sneak around and fish less pressured waters.
Lots of reviews out there on this maneuverable and lightweight hard sided raft like drifter. Our friend Gilligan on the Truckee River over in CA/NV says:
Rigid like a drift boat, bouncy like a raft. Here’s the take. Like a raft this thing can bounce off rocks, you can portage it, you can draft in very shallow water, you can put in cowboy style anywhere you want (don’t need a boat ramp,) it’s also self bailing like a raft, but you can close the valves and make it non bailing. Unlike a raft, it tracks like a drift boat, and maneuvers around the river with very little effort. It will hold weight (anglers) and anchors like a hard boat. The cool thing is this boat is quiet, no hull slap like a drift boat, fish have no idea you’re there.
We have a new NRS Freestone Drifter in the box ready to drop ship or we can sell you the already inflated and ready to go Headhunters Demo boat.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]September is a great month for heading across the divide and checking out Montana’s Blackfoot River.
John shot this video about a year ago with 3 trips to the Blackfoot with Mark. Pretty cool shit.
It is Always Worth the Trip according to most. Why not get away and fish this famous cutthroat creek. Rainbows and browns as well will fill your day.
Dry flies comprise most of the game with a streamer rod tucked in for good measure.
Sunny days of autumn will bring back memories of the perfect creek etched in your mind.
The Blackfoot is the real deal.
See you in Ovando @ Trixi’s for apres fishing beers…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/107730712″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]A pretty cool new website called BADFISH.tv appeared a few weeks ago. For those who like fly fishing videos, this is a one stop shopping option, an aggregator of all fishing videos. Or most.
It’s based on a very simple, uber-clean mobile-friendly UI. You just scroll infinitely. It looks like as videos get likes, they move “up” the board.
I was invited to sign up recently and didn’t when I was prompted to “sign-up”, which I rarely do. Today I decided to give it a go. All it asks is for an email/password, then asks you to pick your categories for your feed. Easy
In all fairness, Orvis has provided a similar site at the TUG for over a year. They also have just about everything that’s out there. But there are a few differences.
BADFISH.tv offers a much more mobile-friendly design. If you watch fly fishing video’s on your phone – and most do – it offers a much better viewing and browsing experience.
You can also tailor your BADFISH.tv feed to show you what you want… “trout”, “flats”, “offshore”, “spearfishing”, etc. I’m waiting for “strange, dark, sarcastic, self-effacing fishing video’s” to be added to the categories.
Orvis has broader categories, but also includes “Gear” and “How-to”, which may be important to many.
Both are excellent sources of video content, just bit different. If you’re on your phone or iPad, BADFISDH definitely gets the nod.
Both, however, are far superior to attempting a search on Youtube or Vimeo, neither of which have great search functionality.[/vc_column_text][us_btn align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fbadfish.tv” style=”7″ label=”Go To BADFISHtv” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2218px%22%7D%7D”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]From the Simms Video Library Fly Fishing Videographer RA Beattie spends of day with sometimes Headhunters guide Tony Valeriano and Eric Adams on the Missouri River in SUPER SLO MOOOOOOTION… Cool stuff. Check out more at Simms Fishing.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Popular fly this time of year.
Guides and guests alike are tossing this big fly up front and getting it deep…or shallow.
Try one with a tiny mayfly dangling off of his Crayfishy tail.
Enjoy the video this somewhat soggy morning Tuesday in Craig MT. The bugs will come slower this cool day. Plenty of rain yesterday. Still raining hard as I write this blog at 820pm. River temps cool and the fish are hungry.
Included is everything you need for tying at least 24 flies. Furry Foam, Wool Yarn, Lead Wire, Ultra Wire, Thread Pheasant Tail, Hen Neck, Indian Rooster Saddle Patch, 25 3XL Streamer/Nymph Hooks. WOW! And the video link too.
Ninch and John put these together for those who wanted to tie our most popular fly patterns. Why not do it at home before you arrive? We give you that chance. Tie away our fishy friends.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yR3FNuWlh3s”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]John Foust is a legend in Montana.
Probably outside Montana too.
Would not surprise me at all.
Almost nothing he says is true, yet I have been believing everything from his mouth since I met John in the late 90’s. john Arnold and I have both guided John with Freddy. The feller whom Foust named his west side famous fly pattern called the Freddy.
The Freddy is one of the first laminated foam flies with a fuzzy bottom.
Works like a champ.
Eastside too. John would fish with the Freddy ust to piss off the guide.
John Foust has spent a life in fly fishing. He was a meat cutter in his past life.
All who know John will also know Elna. His wife and keeper. She can control John about as much as a lion tamer.
Kidding aside, John and Elna are two quality people int ye fly fishing biz. If you have had a chance to meet John you will smile at this video. If you have not, see John in the Bitterrrot Valley educating not only young guides but anglers all.
Enjoy this short from Winston Greely and the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks Department.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]The latest video from the underground editing rooms in Craiglandia. This is what happens when a few of us go Carp fishing in Michigan with grandiose video ideas, yet no script, props or budget. On the fly, fueled by alcohol.
It’s all just for fun. Having a laugh at ourselves and our industry.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/133163909″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]You may have already read my recap of this great trip. If you want to learn more about this destination, check it out.
Special thanks to Cameron Mortenson (Fiberglass Manifesto) for organizing the trip. Shawn Combs (Orvis) is a constant source of humor and ideas. Mike Ward (Adipose Boatworks) is the Pacino of Carp Fishing Movies.
These guys provided some swag to our group as well:
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]It’s July, and that means hot fishing, hot weather and sometimes some hot tempers. You people are too wound up. It’s just fly fishing!
Take ‘er easy this morning and check out some uber-mellow Scandinavian fly fishing. Calming tunes, Sea-trout, Howler Bros., and Hipsters who know how to dress without looking like fools. I wish I could pull off that look.
The Scandi crowd has this type of artsy-shallow-depth-of-field fly fishing film-making down to a science. Bravo.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/126007330″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]We kind of consider Henry’s Fork anglers to be our brothers. Or maybe cousins. They actually enjoy using 6X. We see a ton of them up here in the weeks after the RR Ranch opener, and we’re all looking for the same things. Big fish eating little dries. And we want them tough.
Here’s a great Henry’s Fork edit from renaissance man Marc Crapo. The best part about “the Beard” is that I’m not sure how to even link to him. He’s everywhere. And nowhere. Just google him.
Here’s his latest film showing the diversity of the upper Snake River watershed and Eastern Idaho. Crack a beer and enjoy.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=492&v=3CB0InObSys”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Here’s some more information from friends on the Henry’s Fork…
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Dave Hartman from Stripn Flywear over on the west side sent us this Shark Fishing/Big Lebowski tribute. Good stuff. Anything Lebowski is good stuff.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmaU8q0o3QI”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]From the boys at Montana Wild over the hill comes their latest flick, ‘Summer Haze’. Some great dry fly shots while fishing for Cutties somewhere wild. Check it….[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/129375444″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]In another week or two you’ll be able to wade fish most of Montana’s backcountry streams. Many are doable today. Go check them out and leave the drift boat in the driveway for once. No, you won’t catch a bunch of 21″ Browns in the high country, but taking a break from the circus in Craiglandia will be good for the soul…[/vc_column_text][us_btn align=”left” target=”_self” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvimeo.com%2Fmontanawild” style=”6″ label=”Montana Wild on Vimeo” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2217px%22%7D%7D”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
