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Thursday Snow on the Mighty Mo!

Thursday Snow on the Mighty Mo!

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Thursday Snow on the Mighty Mo!

Snowing in Craig Wednesday. More today? The weather guesser said it would.

Cooler this weekend than last. Highs in the lower 30’s.

Overcast.

This previous weekend gave us a taste of spring. But, thankfully it is a month or two away. Let’s stack up some of the white stuff in the hills, the mountains, the Rockies. For summer. Summer water is important.

So do your freaky snow dance in the office today. Invite a couple of your work posse over and do the funky jive.

Pattern it after this marvelous dancer below…

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Public Lands Rally in Helena

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]GROUNDHOG DAY Another Montana Legislative session, another attack on our public lands, and another Public Lands Rally at our Capitol in Helena. Members of team Headhunters were in attendance, along with a thousand-plus hikers, hunters, boaters, climbers, skiers, birdwatchers, wildflower fanatics, nudists, photographers, biologists, park rangers, environmentalists, politicians, business owners and others who know the value of Montana’s greatest resource: Public Lands.

Federally owned public lands in this case. The rally was organized by the Montana Wilderness Association and others to protest proposed state and federal legislation aimed at making it possible for States to assume control/ownership of Federally owned public lands, an incredibly horrible idea. You probably heard about it.[/vc_column_text][us_btn link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwildmontana.org%2Fwild-word%2Fwhy-we-must-rally-for-public-lands||target:%20_blank|” align=”center” style=”4″ label=”THE NEED TO RALLY FOR PUBLIC LANDS” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2217px%22%7D%7D”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][cl-review quote=”People are not coming to Montana for our incredible selection of Wal-Marts!” author=”Gov. Steve Bullock” occupation=”” type=”quote” layout=”modern” quote_size=”24px” author_size=”18px” italic=”1″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”22108″][vc_column_text]

SPEAKERS

Speeches by Montana resident mountaineer Conrad Anker (above), fly fishing personality Hilary Hutcheson, KC Walsh from Simms Fishing Products, and Governor Steve Bullock got the standing room only crowd fired up. Governor Bullock has a gift for public speaking Montana style, and the roof of the rotunda was shaking after his address. A surprise speech was given by Senator Jon Tester who screamed his support via cellphone held up to the microphone. Bullock and Tester can yell, and I like that. All of Montana was represented in the room, and many folks traveled from communities in the far east and west via bus. Unlike the last “Keep it Public” rally I attended, there were no “bad guys” (land transfer proponents) in the room. As there’s only a handful that don’t hold a political office, that’s no surprise.

This is an incredibly important issue to Montanan’s, and we at Headhunters are no different. If you’re a Montana native, you probably have stayed here because of the great recreational opportunities available on public lands. If you’ve moved here from somewhere else, it likely wasn’t a big paycheck that drew you here. Next time you’re in a bar, restaurant, gas station or grocery store, listen to folks. Odds are good they’re sharing stories about a hunt in the Highwoods, a float trip on the Blackfoot, riding snow machines in Lincoln, or hiking the Bob Marshall. It’s not about you’re career, it’s about what you do, and in Montana it’s probably outdoors.

In light of the recent election, the battle to keep Federal lands Federal has ramped up. Those who seek to transfer ownership to the states – and eventually private ownership – have gained political power locally and nationally. Although their constituents continue to let them know – by a wide margin – that these lands belong to all Americans and should remain that way, they continue to promote the idea that management at the local level is better. It’s not, and would be financially impossible with the vast tracts of land in the Western US. More importantly, those lands have been set aside for ours and future generations.

And while many make complicated financial arguments for and against transfer (mostly against), to us it’s simpler than that. If Montana’s and it’s visitors didn’t have access to public lands – or those lands were improperly managed – what would be left? It’s hard to imagine Bozeman and not think of Yellowstone NP, the Bridgers and Hyalite Canyon. And what would Kalispell/Whitefish/Columbia Falls be like without Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness and the wild Swan River. How about the Bitteroot Valley without the Bitteroots? No more canoe or hunting trips through the Missouri Breaks? Folks in Choteau, Augusta and Dupuyer identify themselves with the massive and federally owned Front Range, not I-15. The Pioneer, Snowcrest, Tobacco Root, Ruby, Gravelly, Madison, Little and Big Belt Ranges are all places I’ve recreated and shared stories and memories with my wife, friends and now my daughter. And I still have a big to-do list. Think about Montana without all of these Federally owned lands. What’s left?

If you care about access to properly managed public lands, join this fight. Call or write your legislator and let them know that Federally owned lands are not negotiable. When you vote make sure you know where the candidates stand on this issue. Out west we often live within site of these lands, but you own them as much as we do, no matter where in the US you reside. You’re a Public Land Owner, and should support the groups that are working hard to prevent Federal Land Transfer, and keep the issue at the top of the list at a time when the list is long.

And remember when you walk through the door of our fly shop – or another – that the folks working inside have chosen a lifestyle that reflects their love of public land and recreation, and likely sacrificed a more lucrative career path to live that lifestyle. Respect.

Read More…

READ HELENA INDEPENDENT RECORD ARTICLE by TOM KUGLIN[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”22112″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Silly Sunday Scenery

Silly Sunday Scenery

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Silly Sunday Scenery Headhunters Fly Shop with Silly Sunday Scenery this Sunday morning late January. Headhunters is your only daily fly fishing blog in Montana bringing you the best in inane Missouri River entertainment to your living room at a pace only we can provide. Why do we do it? To keep you informed on … Read more

Monday Morning Update here in Central Montana

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Monday Morning Update here in Central Montana Fishing is back here on the Missouri River. The recent not as cold weather along with the sun shining has brought fishing back! A few anglers on the water with a number of shuttles this last weekend. Not too much wind either. Pretty nice out there with anglers … Read more

It’s Fly Tying Time Just Add Vise Kits!

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It’s Fly Tying Time Just Add Vise Kits!

It is tying time in America! Post Christmas Blues got you down? Well perk up with the JAV KITS and tie up some spring and summer flies.

May of us try to catch up and prepare for the upcoming trout season by tying our asses of in the winter months. My theory has always been to tie a ton of the EZ flies. Then buy the hard ones. Any fly with more than 6 or more steps is something I want to get at the fly shop. So I tie a bunch of dirty worms, Zebra’s, Weight flies, Firebeads, ants, Buzzball’s and the like.

What do you tie at home. I know that before I became a fishing guide I tied lots  of short run patterns too. All kinds of creative dry flies too. Those days are unfortunately behind me and I miss them. I love to tie flies. A great evening journey along with a glass of brown water that sometimes lasts until the morning.

Get your Just Add Vise Kits @ Headhunters

Our JUST ADD “VISE” fly tying kits are super popular and many customers buy several kits to get them through the winter! 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 extremely fun along with the video are great for those camped out on the Missouri River or camped out in the basement for the week! Just make sure you have your vice, scissors and bobbin. If not, we have that stuff as well!

FIREBEAD RAY CHARLES

Take the best sowbug patterns and put a Firebead on it. You have an egg pattern. You also have one of the most popular early season flies and winter patterns on the water. We’ve put together this Firebead Ray Fly Tying kit that will allow you to tie up 2 dozen flies for your next fishing trip.

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Silly Snowy Drift-Boat Sara Sled Sunday Scenery

Silly Snowy Drift-Boat Sara Sled Sunday Scenery

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Silly Snowy Drift-Boat Sara Sled Sunday Scenery This image from February ’14. Sara rocking the Eastside Drifter at 35mph. Fireball was here co-pilot. If you want to do some drift boat sledding the mean streets of Craig are ripe for action. Don your Buff, it’s cold outside. Joe’s is open for pre-game liquid refreshment. Windy … Read more

Report from Ice Station Zebra

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Above: Sara Roholt attempts to free the ice from her guides while swinging the Missouri River at -10.

Extreme cold has settled in to the Northern Rockies for longer than it usually does. Really cold, and with it lots of snow to keep your feet nice and chilly while walking out to the river. Not many folks have been venturing out to the river lately. A few, and oddly, a few floaters as well. In this weather I’m on me feet so I can quickly get back in the cab of the car and crank up the heat.

We always see pretty good traffic during the holidays. It’s a great time to fish with few crowds but some good camaraderie around the shop in the afternoon. December is one of the better and most consistent months on the river. Both nymphers and swingers will get plenty of action before the river temperature gauge bottoms out in late January. We typically don’t see great midge hatches this time of year, but you should be able to find a few risers up around the dam in the late afternoons.

Unfortunately, the forecast doesn’t look great for the next week. I don’t think we’re going to see anywhere near comfortable until the middle of next week, and even then it’s not going to get above freezing, at least on the current long-term forecasts.

If you do decide to go, here’s a few things we like to do that will help make a Polar Vortex day tolerable:

  • Wear good gloves – kind of a no brainer, but in this weather we’re going to sacrifice dexterity for warmth. That means quality gloves like Last Steelhead Gloves, or a pair of ski gloves. This works best with spey orgs, but you can make it work with a nymph rig if you get in the right spot. Think a sharp drop off where the fish are infant of you, not above. And make sure and put some hand warmers in those mitts.
  • Don’t change flies – pick the pattern(s) you have the most confidence with at home or in the fly shop, and get rigged up proper in a controlled environment. Removing your gloves to change flies repeatedly can end the day quickly. I would rather catch a few less than get so cold I have to bail. Also, use heavy tippet so you don’t run the risk of breaking your bugs off.
  • Use a Ketchum Release – DO NOT put your hands in the water to land those fish! Wet hands at minus 10 will make you whine like a millennial. A Ketchum Release or similar tool will allow you to release fish with gloves on. You should not lift trout out of the water at those temperatures (or any other, some would argue). Nets are a frozen mess in the arctic. Leave them at home.
  • Puffie’s Rule – When it’s this cold, you’re not going to get wet, even if it’s snowing. Forget that technical rain jacket and wear a big puffy down jacket (or 2-3 lighter ones). If you don’t have a badass Simms Extreme or Downstream jacket, you must have that big old dirty insulated snow shoveling parka in the mudroom, right? Wear that. Forget layering when it’s around zero, and go with the thickest insulation you have.
  • Stripping means ice in your guides… and on your hands! – Now it’s pretty difficult to avoid this one, but you can try and reduce the amount of line stripping you do by choosing a method that reduces the need to strip. Streamers out of the boat? Nope…
  • Bring hot liquids – A Thermos coffee mug is standard for our crew. You need the one with the spill proof lid so you can stuff it down your waders.
  • Keep your head warm – like your mom said, “you’ll catch a cold!”. We like the Simms Extreme GoreTex hat, a merino wool buff and possibly an old school wool scarf.
  • Bootfoots Rule! – Most Montana anglers don’t own a pair of boot foot waders, but those who do know they are warmer than stocking foot waders by several factors. We sell a few pairs of Simms boot foots each year, and while expensive, the purchasers do not have buyers remorse after using them. Orvis makes solid boot foots as well.
  • Joe’s Craig Bar – did you know Joe’s has a big old tasty fireplace they crank up all winter? After fishing, head there to defrost. They also sell special anti-freeze for humans under the brand name “Fireball”.

If you do get out there enjoy the river and the outdoors. Stop by for coffee and to rig up indoors. If you do choose to float, be careful on the boat ramps, regardless of how badass your rig is. Each winter we pull several rigs off the ramps.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

ECHO TR2 SPEY and TROUTSPEY

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The ECHO TR (Tim Rajeff) has consistently been one of our most popular Spey rods over the last several seasons. It’s combination of price and performance is unbeatable, as it’s ability to throw a variety of lines and casts. ECHO has reworked the TR series for 2017 (now TR2), and so far we love what we’ve cast. A slight rise in price brings a very nice cosmetic upgrade, and two new Troutspey models that we’ve desperately been in search of.

We were told that existing models would remain the same other than paint, which is a nice glassy army green instead of the stealthy – but ugly – matt finish of the previous seasons. Subtle orange trim was added, with nice utilitarian components and cork. I personally prefer my spey rods to look understated – and these do – instead of the 8th grade wood shop lathe experiment that many two-handers seem to display. Nice job ECHO!

Last year the lightest models in the TR lineup were a 12′ #4 and 12′ #5. The 12′ #4 was a strong rod, perfect for the Missouri, but it was a touch too long for a 4 weight, and really fished at the 4 1/2 – 5 weight range. An excellent tool, but you never felt like you were swinging an “ultralight” rod. The #5 was an excellent caster, but sits at that weird zone in between a big trout rod and small stream Steelhead rod. ECHO killed the #5 for 2017, and I suspect that was due to lack of sales.

The two new Troutspey models consist of an 11′ #3 and a 11’3″ #4. Both are sweet rods. True spey actions instead of compromising switch actions (which we disdain) and have that UL feeling in the hand, which is the idea. We’re finding the 11’3″ #4 is pretty much the perfect rod for the Missouri, slinging Skagit heads in a wide window up to 360 grains, which will turn over most tips and flies we’d find ourselves using on the Missouri. The new Ariflo Scout is a great matchup. This setup got rave reviews from the customers at both of last weekends spey clinics.

If you’re looking for a floating setup, we like the Scientific Anglers Adapt 320. This line is referred to as a “switch” line, but we don’t use that word around here. The 22′ head with integrated running line will fit faster Scandi strokes perfectly. This line is not often talked about, but it currently the best “troutscandi” we have found. We just wish it was rigged as a shooting head.

The 11′ #3 is perfectly capable of handling the Missouri, but you’re going to find yourself a little short – or working too hard to stretch it out – on the bigger runs around Craig. We’ve spent some time with this rod on medium and small sized freestones (think late season on the Big Hole) and it’s our favorite rod for those situations. Frankly, it’s the funner to cast of the two, with a lively and light action. Just lacks a little power that you might want on a windy day at Wolf Creek Bridge.

Like the 4 weight, the grain window is pretty wide on this model, and sustained anchor casters will be happily overloaded while faster strokes can lighten it up and retain plenty of speed. I’m not a fan of mono shooting lines, but on the really small stuff (2 and 3 weights) I’d probably recommend it. We’re pretty happy with 40lb OPST Laser Line, and while a bit larger in diameter than some would recommend, we don’t feel that we’re sacrificing anything, and we get better line-grip while retrieving streamers for trout.

I’ve tested a lot of line weights on these models, and while I have my personal favorites, I have not found a line that I couldn’t get out to the fish. Something I can’t say about all rods.

Like the 4 weight, most guests at our clinic exclaimed “wow” after spending a half hour with the 3 weight. In general, we do think these lightweight troutspey’s fish best with Skagit heads (which is how they were rigged for the clinic) and retain more versatility that way, at least with the current limited crop of lines available for UL Spey rods.

If you’re debating a purchase, we recommend swinging by the shop and picking up 3 or 4 heads and taking a day to test them out, preferably from both sides of the river. Most quickly find the grain weight they like. Popular heads on these rods are the aforementioned Airflo Skagit Scout and the OPST Commando.

I mentioned the 12′ #5 was killed (RIP), so moving up the line we find the previously built 12’6″ #6, 13′ #7 and 13’6″ #8, all standard lengths for those weights. We are carrying (demo rods as well) the 12’6″ #6, which has long been a favorite rod of our on both the Missouri for trout, and on upper Columbia tributaries for Steelhead with floating lines. This rod works fine with a Skagit head and sink-tip, but if I were on a week long winter Steelhead trip – and was expecting rain and high flows – I’d definitely recommend the #7 or #8 for serious lobbing and dredging. We don’t currently inventory these rods, but can have them here quickly for you to try/buy if you’re interested.

Quickly, the two troutspey models have become favorites around the shop, both with customers and our staff. They are an unbeatable deal and could be called the best spey rod for the money. But we consider them to be much better rods than the price suggests. Those new to the sport will be attracted by the price, yet you won’t outgrow these rods, and you’ll never feel like you don’t have enough rod as long as you’re using the right model for the situation.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”20963″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”14608″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Sunday Dry Fly Fish

Sunday Dry Fly Fish

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Sunday Dry Fly Fish This nice trout from last week. Caught on a large Purple Haze. Nice work Scott. Skinny water, big fish. But tonight we have snow and bitter cold weather greeting us for the coming week. So, we will hunker down here in Craig. The water temps will plunge. The trout will feel … Read more

Arnold’s Mozuri Minnow Tying Video

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Arnold’s Mozuri Minnow Tying Video

This from the Just Add Vise Tying Kits video vault.

A popular streamer that we not only strip in the fall we just as often swing it. The fall and winter months here on the Missouri River are made for the Trout Spey faction. And this is one of the keys to success.

Check out the JAV Mozuri Minnow video today while you are planning your guided two hander trip during or 5 month Swing Season!

Check out the marvelous selection of Just Add Vise Kits at the store or here online.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7MfwyeLI1A”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

2016-17 Spey Lineup – Rods and Reels

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The season is in full “swing” for the folks who enjoy swinging trout up on a two-hander. Most folks are done chasing Steelhead in the upper Columbia drainages, and big game season has just ended. The balmy autumn has plenty of folks out on the river and they are enjoying some incredible fishing. It should be “winter” fishing, but it ain’t. And that’s how it always is now.

This weekend we begin our annual free spey clinics, which involve lots of learning, fine-tuning and equipment testing. The team at Headhunters has spent the last two months playing with all the new gear for the 2016-17 swing season. Here’s our favorite stuff beginning with rods. Keep in mind that we are largely recommending accessible and affordable gear for new spey anglers, or possibly more experienced ones who aren’t sure they want to use a spey rod for trout. We also believe that while there are many great rods out there – and a few dogs – regardless of price these models hold there own.

DEMO IT BRO!

Remember that we have all of this gear and more for demo at the shop, including lines. We sell very few rods without customer having first tried them out with a variety of lines. Why would you not! Please stop by and let us show you the different options available.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

RODS

We’ve really made a move from the 6 and 7 weight trout/steelhead combo rods that we’ve used in past years, to full blown ultra-light “troutspey” sticks. At least when we’re fishing for trout. The newest arrival is the ECHO TR Trout, which has very quickly become the staff and customer favorite. The Trout models are additions to the revamped TR Series that has been tremendously popular over the years. Two models – an 11′ #3 and 11’3″ #4 – pretty much cover everything you’ll need for trout in the Rockies. The action is perfect and adapts to a wide variety of lines and casts. The grain window is large, allowing you to fine tune the rod to your casting style. It throws Skagit and Scandi lines equally well, and as we use both here on the Missouri that is a very important attribute. So far we’ve thrown OPST Cammondo heads, Airflo Scout heads, Scientific Angler Adapt lines, and Airflo and RIO Scandi Compacts, and liked them all. Tim Rajeff decided on the 11′-11″3″ range as the sweet spot, and we agree. The new army green gloss finish with orange trim is sweet. We love the skinny grip which keeps that “trout rod” feeling in your hand and makes it easier to use the rod tip to give action to the fly. It will also be more comfortable for women and younger anglers. Best of all the price – $375 – is unbeatable and we feel these rods compete with any rod at any price. Not saying they’re necessarily better, but I would take this series anywhere in the world (and have!). Kudos to ECHO for bringing us a fantastic Troutspey rod at an inclusive price. We’re also continuing to carry the 12’6″ #6 and 13′ #7 models for Summer and winter Steelhead. We also love the 12’6″ #6 on the Missouri for big runs and long casts with a Scandi head. If you’re looking for an affordable first rod the you won’t outgrow, this is it.

The Sage ONE Trout Spey remains in our lineup, and is another popular – but much more expensive – troutspey rod. With a very specific action built around the matching Skagit Trout head, the Sage ONE Trout Spey is a rod thats a little more dialed-in for it’s intended purpose. The 10′ 9″ #2 is designed for swinging small soft hackles on light tippets. The 11′ #3 will easily push streamers up to a weighted #4, and is designed to fish heavier tips. Both have a specifically designed Skagit action. When we grab these we know where we are going and what we are throwing. If sustained anchor Skagit casting for trout (or other resident species) is your thing, these rods may be for you. Beautiful finish and hardware, and loads of Sage technology inside. While we wouldn’t necessarily say the action is better than some of our other favorites, it definitely is unique among troutspey rods. If it fits your style you’ll love it. At $950 you will need to. We highly recommend the RIO Skagit Trout that designer Mike McCune created for these rods. If not, the OPST Commando is another recommendation.

Orvis doesn’t drop down to the true Trout Spey sizes at #2-4, but their Clearwater Spey Rods are very popular with our staff and customers for summer and winter Steelhead, and the 12′ #5 and 12’6″ #6 are fantastic dual purpose heavy trout and light Steelhead rods. They posesses an all-purpose action similar to the Echo TR, but we think it leans a little more to the right – the Skagit side of things, that is. When ECHO revamped the TR line this year, they eliminated the 12′ #5, which leaves the Clearwater as our only 5 weight spey. This is an excellent rod and an overlooked line weight. I would have no problem throwing this for light summer Steelhead on the Grande Ronde or smaller coastal rivers. And if you really want to dredge the Missouri or Yellowstone with heavy tips and larger Galloup-esque streamers, this might be the perfect tool. The 12′ 6′ #6 is a great Summer Steelhead rod and works for trout when needed, and the 13′ #7 is a rod we commonly sell to those headed to the Olympic Peninsula for winter fishing.

Sage has too many offerings in the spey rod category, and we’ve chosen to stick with the Sage METHOD for an advanced do everything Steelhead rod. We loved it’s predecessor the TCX, and while the METHOD is not quite as powerful, it’s a lot easier on your shoulders. These are fast action rods that throw Scandi heads like a laser and you can overload with a heavy Skagit head to fish long tips and massive intruders.

The ECHO Glass Switch and Spey series have always been a staff favorite, and most customers appreciate these easy casters. The price is pretty sweet too at $279-299. I’ve owned quite a few 7 weight two-handers but right now the Echo 12′ 9″ #7 glass is the only one in my quiver. While some folks view it as a novelty, I would have no problem bringing this to BC as a dedicated sink tip rod. If you’re looking for a spey rod for the Missouri – but you might make a trip to the Ronde – the 12′ 4″ #6 is an ideal choice. The lighter 3 and 4 weight switch rods are a blast for trout and the soft tip sticks light biting fish. You really can’t go wrong at this price. They’re cool retro paint job and surprising performance will keep them in your quiver for years. They are a touch heavier than graphite rods, and while bigger, stronger casters won’t really notice, smaller folks and women tend to not like these rods.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”20855″ align=”center”][vc_column_text]

REELS

Many of our customers are new to two-handed fishing, and as you can see from our rod selection we like to keep things real – and affordable – for anglers who want to ease into the game. And we don’t feel you need to buy a rod for $1000 when there are plenty of less expensive rods that perform equally well. The same goes for reels, though we find that many of our customers like to spend a little more on a reel than a rod. Probably due to the fact that a good reel should last you for the rest of your life, and possibly a good portion of someone else’s. You’re also likely to move that reel between rods. We don’t care either way. We want the sport to be approachable to every person that walks in our shop, and an inexpensive reel can help that happen.

The Hatch Outdoors Finatic is my personal favorite for two-handed outfits, whether it’s for Cutthroat on the Blackfoot or Dean River Steelhead. Some folks find them a little heavy for their dainty dry fly outfit, and they are. But that tiny bit of extra weight balances perfectly on spey rods. We love the fact that they come in both mid and large arbor versions, and we use the mid-arbor versions exclusively for all spey rods. We are constantly changing lines and that extra depth accommodates more systems in more sizes. There is something about the Hatch drag that I prefer for swinging the fly. It behaves perfectly on both light takes from cold winter trout and shitty hatchery Steelhead, and on blistering smashes from wild BC hens and early fall Browns on the Mo’. The mid-arbor 5plus ($500) pretty much covers everything in the “troutspey” universe, and the mid-arbor 7plus ($600) handles all of my Steelhead rigs except for big long-belly rods like a 14′ #9. They are not cheap, but they aren’t ridiculous either. They are bulletproof and can transfer to the Salt. Like I said, it’s all I use.

But not everyone wants or needs to spend half-a-grand on a reel, and Orvis has a couple of different offerings that we really, really like. For the last few years, we’ve sold a bunch of the Orvis Battenkill Spey, big click drag reels reminiscent of older Hardy designs in size IV and V. These are excellent matchups for the #6 and #7 Clearwater rods, and they ooze old school on the ECHO Glass #6 and #7. The Battenkill V is a great choice for long belly 8 and 9 weight rods, and will hold a tremendous amount of line. The good news is that the aesthetics, clickity noise, and price are excellent at $139-149. The bad news is that the jump down to the Battenkill III is a quantum leap in size. It’s too small for even the lightest troutspey rods. Fortunately…

This fall Orvis released the new Battenkill Disc Reels (we will get them in the online store soon), featuring a drag similar to the popular Hydros series, but with the old-timey design of the Battenkill spey. Really blocky and smooth. The drag is smooth as well, and the transition into the smaller sizes is much more uniform. And with a standard/mid arbor design you can fit a wide variety of lines on them. These reels will be an excellent choices for a budget/performance spey rods at $159-189. I believe these may end up being our most popular troutspey reels.

And a third reel from Orvis we recommend for spey is the recently introduced Orvis Hydros SL large and wide arbor reel. This reel was expected to make a big splash this season with it’s tremendous drag, tough as nails build, huge retrieval rate and great price at $198-239. Two things have hindered sales in the trout world. First, it’s what I would call a too-large-arbor reel. It’s just too big and I’m talking from an aesthetic standpoint. It kinda looks like a trailer winch on your 4 weight. It’s also a very heavy reel. Too heavy for it’s recommended line size. WAIT… Guess which two reel attributes most two-handed anglers appreciate in a reel? They like them heavy, to balance out long rods, and they like a quick retrieval rate for fighting a fish with a long line, and finishing up at the end of a run. The super large arbor also prevents your shooting line from coiling as badly as a smaller arbor. The drag is a little heavy for some, though it’s highly regarded in the Saltwater. This of course won’t matter for spey unless you are swinging tiny soft hackles on 4x. I think this may be one of the better spey reels on the market for both trout and Salmon/Steelhead swingers. and at a little over $200 is represents a fantastic value for performance.

Our easiest-on-the-wallet spey reel is the ECHO Ion, which we’ve sold for years. These reels are ugly. These reels have a weird compressed o-ring system for securing the spool. These reels are heavy. The paint chips off these reels in a hurry. WAIT… these reels are tough. These reels have never failed that I’ve heard of. These reels are $79-99. Yes, they are that inexpensive, and yes they will not let you down. Probably our most popular spey reel for beginners and for good reason.

And if you want to go the other way and spend more on a reel than I have on several vehicles, you can opt for an Abel Super Series reel. Solid, heavy reels with cork drags, Abels are considered heirloom reels. While there is no one attribute I find in them that makes them particularly great spey reels, the paint job on this one reminds me of BC, which reminds me of some of my greatest Steelhead days ever…

OTHER REELS

Of course there are many other fine reels out there. If your looking to line up a troutspey rod in the 2-5 weight range, you probably have a reel lying around, or you can stick to other brands like Galvan or Nautilus, both of which might be a little on the light side for optimum balance with a spey rod. If you are building a rig for Steelhead we highly recommend the above reels, or going with a heavier Saltwater reel, though they can be overkill and expensive.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Back in Black Friday AC/DC

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Back in Black Friday AC/DC

Sale today. Our program here in Craig? Come in and make a deal.

You want a deal. Come in and bargain with our crack retail staff. Shane and Braden will haggle til the death…

 

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Headhunters Thanksgiving Missouri River Fishing Report

Headhunters Thanksgiving Missouri River Fishing Report

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Headhunters Thanksgiving Missouri River Fishing Report Two words. Damn good. The best late fall bite we have witnessed in several years. Dry fly? Good for the last couple hours. Not too good before that period. But really quite good after the sun comes off of the water. One of these days we will not … Read more

Holiday Week Fishing Report and Schedule

Holiday Week Fishing Report and Schedule

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Holiday Week Fishing Report and Schedule Holiday Week Schedule Monday of the holiday week ahead. Lets hope you are working a short week and playing hard this weekend. Or just eating, fishing, and napping. We are headlong into our winter hours 8-6 daily. The only shop open in Craig this winter with consistent fly … Read more

Shit Skiers Say Video

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Shit Skiers Say Video

In homage to the lack of snow here in the west we post Shit Skiers Say today on the Headhunters Blog.

Not much in the way of fall or even winter weather as of late. Nothing of substance for the last six weeks.

It will come, eventually. Maybe.

Do the snow dance in your living room today whilst watching football.

I know we will.

Bring it.

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Keeping Warm on the River

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The first really cold week is behind us, and some of our visitors got to enjoy some downright cold and wet weather. If you didn’t have all of the right cold weather gear on Monday, you froze. And we definitely had a few clients on the boat who know this (they’ve experienced it before) yet continue to show up to the Missouri River in October with a sweatshirt from gym class and a golf windbreaker.

We thought we’d throw together some of our favorite cold weather gear for fall in Montana. And we’ll definitely be seeing some more cold and wet weather in the next few weeks.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#1 RAIN JACKET

While people are often amazed that we’ll be out fishing in sub-zero temperatures in the winter, few realize that it’s actually much colder to be fishing in 50 degree weather with driving rain and a little wind. Thats because 10 below is dry. It’s the wet that makes you cold, so the number one piece of gear to keep you warm is a QUALITY rain jacket. We like Simms, of course, and there’s not a better solution than the legendary Simms Guide Jacket. Gore-tex, a big hood, storm flaps and cuffs that let the water runs off and not in.

But any QUALITY rain jacket will do, including your ski or hunting shell. What doesn’t work well? Minimalist, lightweight hiking rain jackets like the Marmot Precip and Patagonia Torrentshell. These are designed for active sports and lightweight packability, not sitting in a drift boat for hours in a down pour. HINT: These can be awesome under your heavier rain jacket in a two-jacket system.

BUT I’M TOO CHEAP!

Then don’t buy a knockoff of a good rain jacket, or one that advertising a “coating”. They always suck. The cheap solution is to go old school and get yourself a nice yellow rubber rain slicker. The kind that the Skipper and Giligan wore while battling that fierce Typhoon. While it didn’t save them from getting lost in the storm, they did arrive on that island alive. And probably pretty dry. These things do not breath at all, but they do 1 thing and they do it well. They keep water out. We see these in the Florida Keys and Louisiana when we’re fishing in the salt. Remember to always keep the hood up so you don’t hear the giggles…

Here’s one on Amazon for $13.95

100 DEGREE RULE

I was sharing this with some customers the other day, and it’s an easy one to remember. If the combined temperature of the air and water are 100 degrees or less, you’re going to get cold. Now this rule relates to submersion in water and hypothermia, but it gives you a good starting point for determining how much and what kind of gear to wear for a day on the water. In other words, if it’s pouring rain and 46 degrees (we’ll assume the air and rainwater are close to the same temperature) and the river temperature is 52 degrees (you’re going to be getting your hands, face and neck wet) then we’re approximately 46 + 52 = 98 degrees. It’s going to be cold, and definitely not a day to get your legs wet wearing shorts or lightweight pants. And if you or your buddy slip and fall in, you need to get warm quick.

BRING IT WITH YOU

And please bring it. I can’t count how many time I’ve heard “I have one of those killer Simms Rain jackets, but it’s at home…”. Also, take care of it, wash it periodically and use revives on it if it start to “wet-out” and leak.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20224″ align=”center”][us_image image=”20227″ align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#2 GLOVES

Mark routinely carries 3 to 7 pairs of gloves in his boat. Kinda like OJ. Different gloves for different purposes. And while many are on the never ending quest to find the perfect fishing gloves (we don’t think they exist), we think it’s much more important to keep your hands warm than worrying about how well you can tie a loop knot with them on. We find that Kast makes the best fishing glove on the market. Super comfortable, super warm and incredibly waterproof. Also, the fit is perfect on just about everyone (fingers are not too long or two short). Yes you can fish with them on and even record with them if you have a good game camera, but it depends on what you’re doing. I’ll wear them all day when swinging a two hander. I’ll use them when streamer fishing from the boat as well, but probably not all day. Nymph fishing requires too much stripping with no tension to feel, So instead of taking them off I just don’t nymph. And for whatever reason I can’t comprehend throwing dries with gloves on.

But when you do dunk your hands to release a fish, they stay dry, and the cuffs keep water our all day long. By far the best solution we’ve found and we sell a truckload of them each year.

CHOPPERS

Many of us carry some Minnesota style Choppers in the boat. These aren’t for fishing with unless you’re beating salmon on the head with a baseball bat. These are for warming your hands back. They work great by themselves with the sole liner gloves which can be worn by themselves. They work even better, however, with some hand warmers inside. They tough as hell and cheap. Look for them at ACE or your local hardware store.

An old hockey player I knew from Duluth showed these to me years ago. He advised that while they are terrible in a snowball fight, they are fantastic in a fist fight. FYI…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20226″ align=”center”][us_image image=”20220″ align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#3 DISPOSABLE HANDWARMERS

These are easy to forget, which is lame because they are cheap and you can buy them everywhere. And most fly shops carry them. Mark and I have been known to pass them out for free on days when we know it’s going to be arctic. I always keep a few in my boat and in my gear bag. Remember to open them up inside your car or at the shop when you buy them. Give them a chance to good and warn before you take them into battle. I usually keep 1 in each pocket of my rain jacket to warm my hands up in between sips of Redbreast (see below).

And these can also be used in your wader feet as well. Put them on top of your foot when you slide into the stocking feet. Money.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20225″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#4 BOOTFOOT WADERS

Yes, they are expensive, and it’s often difficult to get the Simms model (which is the best by miles), but they are a total game-changer for those who fish where or when it’s often chilly. You will completely forget that your feet ever got cold while fishing. An added bonus is that they are easy on and off, which is great at the end of a cold day. You can also easily use the above hand-warmers in them, and they do make a “toe-warmer” model as well. We can’t recommend these enough.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20223″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#5 PUFFBALL

Patagonia coined that term years ago, and like “Coke”, they’re all called that. Simms makes a great one, and I prefer the North Face version, but the bottom line is that they all have similar properties. They are very light, exceedingly warm, dry quickly and work when wet. That last one is huge for fly fisherman and women, as we are constantly putting our hands in the water to release fish. We also have our casting hand in the up position all day, which lets water run down our arm. And if you’re on a multi-day float trip, you’ll love in one. We like the lightweight versions and use them as layering garments under our rain jackets. Number 5 on the list, but a must-have. No really cheap way to do this – the cheeps usually suck – but you can often find good deals on last years colors or even buy a used one on eBay.

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#6 CAMPBELLS SOUP

If I could only bring 1 thing to eat ro drink on a chilly day, it would be Redbreast Irish Whiskey (see below). If I could bring 2, it would be Redbreast and a hot thermos full of Campbells Chicken Noodle or Chicken and Rice Soup. This has save countless days for me, and warms you up much better than coffee, cocoa or tea. You also get some lunch with the deal, and it will taste much better than that soggy sandwich full of cold-cuts. Make sure and use a little more water than called for, and “season” your thermos with a little hot water before you toss the soup in. Also, I highly recommend sticking with the cheap, regular old Campbells, and avoid anything that has the words “healthy” or “low-sodium” on the can. Your body wants that fat, salt and grease when it’s cold, and I’ve found that the allegedly “healthy” variants cool off much quicker. Also – NEVER use dried potato soup, unless you want to watch it explode all over your buddy.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20222″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#7 REDBREAST IRISH WHISKEY

Popularized on the Missouri River by legendary Fly fisherman and Naval Aviator “Lieutenant Dan” Kaufmann, Redbreast is a wonderful premium Irish whisky smooth enough for your LDS buddy. We like it from below zero up to about 50 degrees. If the air temperature goes above 50, we put it on ice in the cooler and play it by ear from then on.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20228″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#8 MR BUDDY HEATER

I’m actually not a fan of propane heaters in the boat, or propane anything for that matter. But a lot of people carry these in the drift boat, and they are almost a fixture in Winter Steelhead country. I find they work best when your hand is close enough to get burned on the white hot steel grate in front of the burner. From there on out to about 1 inch they provide a nice warning effect. After that I get just as warm putting my hand in the cooler to get the battle of Redbreast.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20231″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#9 BUILD A FIRE

I don’t do this enough, and honestly I have mixed feelings about leaving fire-rings and dead coals on the beach in the Missouri River Wilderness. But when you really need to warm up, nothing ticks all the boxes like a good bonfire. Part mental, part physical. The Missouri River has lots of excellent sand/gravel beaches to build a fire on, especially during low winter flows. Bring a few pieces of your own wood, and do the right thing before leaving. Make sure the fire is completely out and scatter the ashes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][us_image image=”20221″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#10 WEAR A HAT

“Don’t go outside without your hat on!” – mom

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Yellowstone is more valuable than GOLD!

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Yellowstone is more valuable than GOLD!

We keep saying NO to mining in Montana.

We still say NO.

Not too much more to it that that.

No mining near our National Treasures.

Period.

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Foxee Minnow Tying Kit JAV

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Foxee Minnow Tying Kit JAV

Pretty crucial for Missouri River fall streamer fishing.

This perennial locals favorite works!

The weather this week has us thinking more and more about chucking the big fly for big fall brown trout.

Rainbows too. But who doesn’t fantasize about the golden bellied brown trout as we daydream the day away.

We have lots of Just Add Vise Kits in the store and online. Get a few and start filling your evenings stocking your streamer boxes for the fall season anywhere USA![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/122342741″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Blackfoot River September Fishing Report

Blackfoot River September Fishing Report

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Blackfoot River September Fishing Report Fished the Blackfoot yesterday and today. Can’t tell you what happened today, but I can chat at you what happened yesterday. Flows ar equate low with Bonner registering about 400 cfs. Boney, skinny, thin man. Ran the NRS IDB yesterday, but will be running my Adipose Flow today. Saw … Read more

National Park Service Happy 100!

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week marks the 100th Birthday of our National Park Service. Living an equal – and short – distance between two of America’s most iconic National Parks, we are constantly aware of both the importance of our National Parks, and the struggles they face in the future.

My family has enjoyed a dozen Parks – or lands administered by the National Park Service – in the past year. All for the incredibly reasonable $80 price for an annual family pass. We purchased the pass at the Mammoth entrance to Yellowstone Park last spring, and I drove through that same gate almost exactly 1 year later. They are among our most memorable family experiences, and none were a disappointment. Some new ones exceeded our expectations.

We explored volcanoes, remote backcountry and watched wildlife with no fear of man. We hiked trails jammed with tourists in street shoes, and found pockets of silence on others. We’ve seen some of the greatest geologic wonders in the country, and viewed vistas of unspoiled landscapes remarkable both in appearance, and because they still exist. We learned to rock climb, and even caught a fish or two along the way.

Montanan’s are notorious for ridiculing the hoards of tourists that descend on Yellowstone and Glacier Parks each year, but you can find most of us doing the same at least once each summer. Yes the tour buses, gift shops and kooky entrance towns can trigger fits of road-rage and test anyones patience, but what’s beyond the gates and lines is usually worth the effort.

The recent popularity of our National Parks has become a hot topic among advocates of wilderness (Are We Loving Our National Parks To Death?), and some conservative Western Politicians are trying to “take back” federal lands, including the Parks. It’s a birthday party, so we’ll refrain from voicing our opinions on these topics today. Those who enjoy our park system should read up and get involved. And as we celebrate 100 years of what Wallace Stegner called “the best idea we ever had”, read up on the history of the National Park Service and Antiquities Act. Pretty interesting stuff.

“National parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” – Wallace Stegner

Congratulations to the National Park Service on 100 years of providing unique, memorable and truly American experiences. Trips to the Parks have been an important part of my life since my first trips to Mt. Rainier and Yellowstone as a child. I hope that they are playing an important part of my daughters life as I get to experience them again with her. We hope that Headhunters Nation supports our Parks large and small. Go visit one every chance you get!

Here’s a few images from the last year…[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19789″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Volcanoes National Park, HI.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19788″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Mount Rainier National Park, WA.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19787″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Glacier National Park, MT.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19786″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Crater Lake National Park, OR.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”19785″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Idaho City of Rocks National Reserve, ID.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Creek Fishing

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Did a little “Crick” fishing’ with my daughter yesterday. Had to get out and have a walk around. And catch some fish in a boulder filled stream. We found a few, and we also found surprisingly cold and powerful flows for late-summer. Some of that is due to recent Thunderstorms dumping ample rain over the Upper Missouri region, but most of the higher elevation freestones I’ve fished this summer seem to have “normal+” flows, despite the drought conditions many of Montana’s larger lowland rivers are experiencing. I’ve heard this from a handful of anglers from other parts of the state as well (but not everywhere).

I’m always at ease tackling a small mountain stream this time of year, knowing I’ll only need a handful of flies and some 4X. If things get tough, I’ll throw on a BH dropper. Yet I continue to find these “easy” fish doing what all trout in Montana do in August. Eating Tricos. You’d think after so many years of doing this it would no longer be a surprise. Yet it is, and I still rarely have anything close to a Trico in my backcountry box.

And some of the bailout and inside lies these freestone geniuses can set up in are just as tough as the Missouri. Maybe tougher considering the cliffed-out, deep wading, brush busting, knee scraping approaches you need to make. But it’s fun, and most of our local creeks contain some good fish to go along with the smaller trout one expects. Fish that are worth bruises and punctures.

We didn’t catch a ton of fish, mainly because we didn’t fish that much. This kind of trip involves some non-angling activities. Hiking, checking out caves, general exploring and maybe a river nap. But when we fished we caught them, and I don’t think we found a fishless pool. And that’s not always the case.

While these streams can and do suffer from extremely low flows, warm water and a lack of oxygen, they don’t seem to be this summer. At least no where I’ve looked around North-Central Montana. There are some fantastic mid and upper (“side country” and “backcountry”?) elevation freestone opportunities right now that shouldn’t be viewed as a plan B. Excellent fisheries with good numbers of fish and some good ones if you look hard enough and walk long enough. Before you do go, however, take a thermometer and check the temp. If you’re not familiar with the stream try to get some intel on regular flows for this time of year (many of these streams do not have USGS gauges).

Get out there!

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Saturday Fishing Report & Housekeeping

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]”You gotta fish at the coolest time of day.” A tip from Braden, who we find twitching and skittering after dark in the above image. The after-hours party is happening right now, with a mix of Caddis, tiny PED’s, Craneflies, a few Spruce Moths, and a gozillion bats. If you go out after dark – and don’t like bats inside a rod tip length – don’t turn on your headlamp.

Nymph Report

Continues to fish well. The weeds have gotten a tiny bit worse, but that drifting mess seems to wax and wane as it always has based on factors we have never understood. I think a combination of air vs. water temperature, oxygen content in the H20, and some kind of lake effect. Bottom line: it will drive you nuts at some point during the day, but not all day. And not everywhere. TIP: The bigger and harder you mend, the more weeds you’ll pick up.

The dam still seems to be the spot most folks are getting stumped. I recommend tiny sow bug patterns (no bead) and beadless Zebra midges. Get deep with it and stick around near the dam until you hit on the pattern. Actually, I recommend going somewhere else…

From Wolf Creek to Dearborn, and mix of skinny Mayfly patterns like the Little Green Machine, Caddis imitations (Blooms Purple Weight Fly has been best), and some flashy Rainbow Warrior type flies are a good call. Start at 5 feet and go up and down from there. Lower down most anglers are having success with larger patterns like the Worm, Pat’s Rubber Legs, Clouser Crawfish, and Cranefly Larva. I would throw a large #8 or #10 scud in the mix along with a snail pattern if you have one (we don’t).

Cascade is fishing pretty well and getting more abuse than normal for this time of year. I hope the anglers hitting the lower stretches are paying close attention to the water temperatures. Flies should include some hopper type junk, Czech droppers and Ant patterns. You’ll likely encounter localized Callibaetis and caddis hatches at some point.

While the nymph fishing is still a bit of a riddle, it’s by far the most productive and consistent for most anglers. It also seems to be improving each day, and that should continue as we experience some cooler weather in the next week.

Trico Wars

The only thing consistent is that it’s a tough battle most days in most places. Two days of weak hatches can be followed by a monster spinner fall. And that big event could occur at Wolf Creek Bridge or at Mountain Palace. The fish are tough and we are using 6X, small clusters and spinners, and looooong leaders, tippets and casts. So it’s the usual for the first week of August. The good news is that moderate to minimal pressure means you can fish most of the spots you want to. No need for a long float if you’re hunting heads.

Hopper Fishing

You can follow our guides leads and be on the water at 6:30. It can be really good with the big bugs. But more than once in the last 10 days that good session was at 1:00pm, like the book says. If that wind kicks up after lunch tie one on. And, they’re cutting most of the fields along the river right now which tends to kick a few hundred-thousand hoppers into the river. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. They’ve all seen it now. Long casts down in front of the boat are key. If they refuse it, twitch it. Our advice? If you tie on a hopper, leave it on all day. Any float will do.

Housekeeping…

The new Sage X is in stock now in both the 590 and 690 configurations. Get them while they last. We’ve got demo’s ready for you to try.

We also have the new 4 piece Swift Flyfishing Epic Fastglass rods in stock. A variety of colors in 580, 686 and the 5 piece 7’6″ #4 “Packlight” which has become my most used rod this season. I love it.

Talk to Sara if you’re interested in purchasing an NRS Freestone Drifter Demo with oars, pump and anchor. You’ll love it this fall when the water comes back up and cools off a bit. We also have a beater raft trailer that rolls great for sale. First $400 takes it.

If you’re looking for the ultimate in high performance sun protection headwear, check out the new Shelta hats in stock. Dewey and I have been test driving these for a couple of weeks and we are sold. Awesome protection, breathability, lightweight and they stick to your head in the wind.

And pretty much all technical sun shirts are on sale right now (I just filled up the rack yesterday!). Cruise by Headhunters and score some sportswear at a great price.

We actually have an unspoken for Abel Super 5 Grateful Dead 50th Anniversary reel in stock! (Seems impossible, but it’s true!)

Mark’s Advanced Fly Fishing School is full. You missed out!

Perch fishing is on fire in the river (if you know where to look) and on the lake. Why pick on those trout suffering in warm water when you can feed your family…

Looking forward to some cooler weather and hopefully some precipitation this weekend and early next week.

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Trout Bummin'

Trout Bummin’

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Trout Bummin’ Found these cats fresh outta the water at Wolf Creek Bridge after a swim bath in Mother Mo. Trout Bummin’ Montana. A short chat revealed they had rented a boat from us and had enjoyed sampling some of our Missouri River Trout Fruit. Turns out these fishy smelling’ fellas had been to the … Read more

New Boat Smell Hyde Montana Skiff

New Boat Smell Hyde Montana Skiff

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New Boat Smell Hyde Montana Skiff Shane Wilson and his new Hyde Montana Skiff today at Headhunters Fly Shop. Max Mattioli has one too. Now both of these HH guides are rocking this Hyde version of the ever so popular skiff that is taking over Montana’s Missouri River. Some don’t like the skiff design because … Read more

Missouri River Bugs – June

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Missouri River Bugs The following are some pictures of bugs from the Missouri River that were collected in June a couple miles upstream of Craig. These images will hopefully aid in your fly design and/or fly selection while you are fishing this month. Although all these images are of nymphs/larvae, PMDs and caddis are currently hatching.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_image … Read more

Caddis Festival Today!

Caddis Festival Today!

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Today is it. Partying in downtown Craig Montana. All the festivities start about 4pm with BBQ’ers ramping up and the big Parade in Craig. Live and Silent Auctions along with the raffle will raise about 20K for our Craig Volunteer Fire Department. You could also become a local firefighter if you wish. But today is … Read more

Fly Tying Night in America

Fly Tying Night in America

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Fly Tying Night in America Tomorrow in Craig Fly Tying Night in America. Wednesday at  6pm. A few gathered ’round the tying table. See you at the shop. Enjoy this Just Add Vise Tying Video Mozuri Minnow today. Order the kit online here. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/122352355″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River Top 10 February Nymphs

Missouri River Top 10 February Nymphs

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Spring like weather has brought out the shut in February anglers here on Montana’s Missouri River. While many are swing the 2 handed Trout Spey rod the rest are tossing the good ‘ol nymph fly. Here is a photo hit on those popular Missouri River Top 10 February Nymphs. The Green Weenie, Tungsten Rainbow Warrior, … Read more

Montana troutspey

In Defense of Switch Lines…. Just Kidding.

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Lately I’ve seen a resurgence in the dreaded “switch” line. Particularly on newer spey rigs purchased regionally. At our last clinic there were no less than 3 new outfits present rigged with switch lines. All were recommended as part of a rod/reel/line kit from where they were purchased. All 3 left the clinic optimized for spey casting with standard Skagit or Scandi shooting heads, and happier owners.

I’ve been bashing switch lines for years, and thought I had gotten in front of the disease. Apparently it has emerged as a new strain that is more resistant to my opinion. Or maybe just more folks are buying their spey gear in the Northern Rockies, where it’s less likely you’ll run into a knowledgeable spey technician, than in, say, Portland or Seattle.

While I’ll admit that in the last 2 years I have finally seen some useable switch lines, they still represent such a huge compromise that there is no way I can recommend them, nor have I ever met an experienced caster who prefers them over Spey lines. Or even uses them.

So let’s back up quickly, and review what these lines are designed for…

The term “switch” was first applied to rods short and light enough to be used as a single hander, and long enough to be used for spey casting. Remember that at the time a 13′ #7 spey rod was considered small, so the jump down to 11 feet was drastic. The problem was that no lines existed that would perform spey casts on these new rods. And if they did, you certainly could have used those lines on your single handed 9′ 5 weight to spey cast. So really, these were just shorter spey rods, and it baffles me why they didn’t refer to them as that. By building “switch rods”, however, manufacturers unwittingly sped up the trend towards shorter and lighter two-handed rods. In fact we’ve now reached the point where the difference in length between a “switch” rod and a “spey” rod is measured in inches, not feet.

Instead of designing much needed short-head spey lines for this new category of rods, manufacturers decided to match the new lines to the term, instead of the rod and the customers demand. Also, some of the rods were “overhead” 6 weights, and some were “spey” 6 weights. So we ended up with a bunch of switch rods and switch lines that had no consistency in length, taper, or grains across the industry. Nobody had a clue how to design a line that could perform powerful spey casts and act as a traditional overhead fly line. Because it can’t really be done. More on that later.

Now 5 years ago, there were still some folks around talking “switch”. The idea that you could spey cast down through a run, then turn around and upstream fish back up in single handed fashion (with the same fly line). But those that tried quickly found out that; a) most switch lines were terrible spey lines; b) spey lines are way too heavy to single hand cast effectively, and c) throwing dry flies on a switch rod sucks.

But for each angler I talked to looking for a true switch set-up, I talked to 100 who were looking for a small spey rod. I really don’t hear the “switch” discussion anymore, although there are no doubt rivers – or more likely runs – that do benefit from the ability to do this quickly with one outfit. But like I said, you could do it with your 9′ 5 weight with the right line (Wulff Ambush). And while I do run into folks who ended up with a switch line as part of their new Spey kit, few of them asked for it. Simply a case of an uninformed salesman innocently matching up the rod, reel and line out of the catalog. In other words, if you ask for a switch rod – and don’t ask for a particular line – you may well end up with a switch line.

You’re hearing what sounds like a little fly shop criticism here. In reality, I’m pointing out the fact that we live in Montana, and nobody should expect every fly shop employee in the region (and no Big-Box) to be an authority on Spey lines. Just like you shouldn’t expect a Montana fly shop employee to be an expert at rigging billfish leaders. Or a Florida fly shop employee to know what Gink is. Many of them need a little direction from you.

Back to the Clinic…

So, back to our last clinic and 3 poorly lined rigs. The first two were matching off-brand rod,reel,line outfits. They were good rods, termed “switch”, and were lined up with very long belly “switch” lines with heads past 50 feet long. The owners said they performed flawlessly while overhead casting nymph rigs, but they couldn’t seem to spey cast them at all. No doubt. Neither could I. Felt like sewing thread. For these two I went to the other end of the spectrum and quickly rigged them both up with short Skagit heads from OPST and Airflo. Both rod owners loved them, and quickly picked up a couple of spey casts now that they could feel the line doing it’s thing. They also quickly realized that they needed two reels and lines for their rods, as they wanted to continue to use the switch line for single handed casting. An Echo Ion reel for $79 solved that problem.

They also went out and swung several nice Missouri River trout after our clinic on the Skagit head/sink-tip/streamer combo.

The second rod was the Orvis Clearwater switch with the Orvis Hydros Switch Line. I have cast this line quite a bit, and consider it one of the best of the switch lines (second to the Wulff Ambush). It is a true 50/50 compromise – unlike the above example – and performs spey casts much better with it’s shorter, heavier head. But it’s still a massive compromise. Look at it this way, it casts both spey and overhead, but it also performs both styles of casting half as well. This angler could feel what was going on better than the other two, but could not get the power to transfer from his hands to the line. This is because ALL switch lines are underlined compared to their Spey cousins (or all Spey lines are overlined). They have to be so that overhead casts can be performed.

Gary Sandstrom, designer of the Wulff Ambush lines understands this:

Typically a good starting point for switch rods is an Ambush 8 weight (290 grains) will load a 5 weight switch rod, Ambush 9 for a 6wt switch and a Ambush 10 for a 7wt switch (rated for spey application). If the rod is a true single hand, then just match the same Ambush line weight to the rod line weight.

So, Sandstrom and Wulff say +3 line sizes for Spey, and stay at recommended for traditional overhead casting and rods. Thats a massive difference in grains, and is the reason that designing a switch line that performs well in both disciplines is nearly impossible.

This angler was interested in accurate and powerful spey casting, and understood the technique. Looking around I think he quickly realized that the switch line was not going to provide the performance of a true shooting head. He asked me if he should try a Scandi head before I could even bring it up. After rigging it up, he didn’t really have to change much. His technique was already solid. If anything he powered down, as he now had a properly balanced outfit and a line he didn’t have to fight. Booming casts out there with control and ease.

Lesson: If you want to spey cast, get a Spey line.

But remember, the problem was that the right lines didn’t exist for these shorter rods. We often ended up with shooting heads a touch too long and lacking the ability to add – and turnover – a sink tip and large streamer. Finally, we are now seeing the extremely short head spey lines to match these shorter rods perfectly. These new lines are also built in ultralight weights for the new generation of “Micro” or “Ultra-light” spey rods that range from 2 to 4 weight. No line has been more popular at our shop this year than the OPST Commando Skagit heads. These have been designed from the ground up for shorter spey rods, and lengths range from 12′-18′ and 150-475grains. I would call customer satisfaction 100%, and I would include our shop staff in that. Airflow makes the Skagit Compact Switch (hate that name), which is a great line but substantially longer at 19′-20′. RIO makes the Skagit Trout Max, which is best for very short rods with it’s 11′ head length, and is only available in the lightest grain weights. These are all Skagit heads that require the addition of a tip (floating or sinking), and have the ability to fish deep and throw large-ish flies.

Now we just wait for the 18′ Scandi head I hope to see from someone this summer.

So, forget the term “switch”. Throw it away. If you’re on this site reading this post, you’re likely looking for a smaller spey rod used for Spey casting for trout and other resident fish. If so, you probably live around fisheries that you fish with a single hander and a bobber all the time. Why would you look for a spey rod to do that with?

And if you do want to roll a “switch” rig, I recommend you stick with a single handed rod, and perform single-handed spey casts with a short head line like the Wulff Ambush (18′). If you want to swing streamers on foot, and strip them from the boat, the OPST Commando is an excellent choice, and we are selling those heads for that purpose as well. None of the switch or spey lines are useable for technical dry fly fishing.

Most importantly, find a local fly shop rat who knows the spey game. And they don’t need decades of experience in the Skeena drainage to be of assistance. It means he or she has educated themselves when it comes to spey gear – in particular lines – and are enthusiastic about and practice two-handed fishing.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Friday Foto Spey Day

Friday Foto Spey Day

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Good friend Erich Bittmann and myself went out for a quick afternoon session Thursday. A couple hours casting and fishing from Stickney Creek to Spite Hill. Just perfect. A few fish and some good times. Enjoyed the mild weather that will continue through the weekend and beyond. Take a drive with your fly rod this … Read more

Welcome to October

Macroinvertebrates On the Back of an Envelope

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If you like aquatic macroinvertebrates (river bugs), here are some “back of the envelope” calculations that may amuse you.
The UMOWA 2015 Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Report reported that the greatest density of macroinvertebrates occurred between the Dam and Craig. The density of macroinvertebrates averaged about 12,000 individuals per square meter.

The distance from the Dam to Craig is about 7.8 miles (12,553 meters). The average wetted channel width is roughly 100 m on this stretch of river. If we multiply these two numbers, we get an idea of the area of the riverbed above town:  12,553 m x 100 m = 1,255,300 square meters of river bottom between the Dam and Craig.

We can then multiply this number by the average number of macroinvertebrates per square meter of river bottom (12,000 individuals per square meter) to get a rough guess of the total number of bugs between the Dam and Craig:  1,255,300 square meters x 12,000 individuals per square meter = 15,063,600,000 individual bugs between the Dam and Craig. 

So between the Dam and Craig there are about 15 billion individual bugs.

The most recent MT FWP trout surveys reported that on the Craig stretch of the Missouri River there were 4,073 Rainbows and 433 Browns greater than 10 inches per mile. If we combine these two numbers, then there were 4,506 trout per mile of river around Craig. We can multiply this number by the 7.8 miles of river between the Dam and Craig to get a guess of the total number of trout between the Dam and Craig:  4,506 trout per mile x 7.8 miles = 35,147 total trout greater than 10″ between the Dam and Craig.

If there are 15,063,600,000 individual bugs and 35,147 trout, then there are approximately 428,588 bugs per trout. Now of course, these numbers are very rough and not all of the bugs are available to the trout at all times.

So if you want to impress some trout bum chicks…don’t use this information as a catalyst to the second drift boat date!

What’s the point of all this math? I don’t really have one, other than it’s kind of amazing that the flies on the ends of our lines get noticed at all with so many natural bugs around. But they do. And that’s pretty cool.

Sunday Morning Fishing Report Headhunters Style

Sunday Morning Fishing Report Headhunters Style

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Ever use a hook sharpener? A good idea if you want to increase your hook-up rate. A cheap investment for a giant return. Write it off as an investment in your fly fishing year.

While cooler yesterday than the high on Friday of 49F today may bring some scattered snow showers. Or not. We do know that the week ahead is forecast for much warmer afternoon temps than the week before.

Sara said correctly today the last couple years the winter has been confined to cold and wet November December months and then sometime in January…Spring!

She’s right. We’ll winter return to central Montana winters soon. After this unseasonable next couple weeks.

Lots of boat traffic on Saturday, meaning 10+, with bank anglers roaming around as well. Today will be similar with some at home for Championship Sunday.

Most of the HH staff teams have lost but there is unfortunately a Bronco’s fan around. I guess Ben Hardy is a Patriots fan. So a few dogs in the race still.

The general pink flies are working. Swingers are getting them. Clouser’s are leaving the bins rapidly. The slender streamer is pretty sexy.

Sunday Morning Fishing Report Headhunters StyleWater levels are up in the last week plus at 3300cfs. We would like  a bit more water. But that is a fantasy unless we receive more snow in the hills. Historically 4800cfs is our winter average for this time of year. Historically means nothing really for today. The past averages out but the fact remains that we need more snow on the ground.

On the right you will see that the water temps have risen to 34.5F. The fish do like that increase. It breathes life into them. Sort of.

Good catch rates reported from anglers in and out of the shop. Above we stated the pink option. That is what is coming through from anglers. Not just me, or us, spouting forth generic winter bullshit. While some of that is true, we cannot take all of the credit.

Try writing a daily report in the winter. No fly changes for 5 months. We get damn fired up over a 1 degree water temp change. Sad.

Sunday is here. Enjoy it. Stop in for your shuttle. Fly help. All the coolest stuff from SIMMS, RIO, Echo, every size in the Hatch reel line, Headhunters Logo wear including the outstanding Craiglandia line, and a long list of winter fly fishing accessories for your Missouri River journey.

Shop open daily @ 8am.

Rainbow Czech Nymph Video

Rainbow Czech Nymph Video

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Rainbow Czech Nymph Video

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]

Montana Trout Spey

2015-16 Spey Rod Lineup

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Here is the 2015-16 Spey rod lineup at Headhunters for those interested in casting and fishing with two-hands. With the introduction of micro-spey rods in the last couple of years, we definitely are seeing a switch in both what we carry and what customer want. We are also seeing the emergence of the “trout only” spey guy/gal. People who fish for resident fish rather than migratory species. Why leave Montana, right?

In years past we’ve focused on the 6/7 weight category as our primary rod, and toyed around with the handful of 3 and 4 weights available. The 6/7 weight Scandi rig is the perfect Steelhead/Trout combo for the Missouri (trout) and Salmon/Ronde/Clearwater (Steelhead). This has traditionally been where most of our customer use a spey rod. While we have always carried a few 8 weights, they were typically special orders for winter Steelhead on the OP. A 7 usually gets the job done just fine.

This season we’re talking more 5/6 weight around the shop. We still use and sell plenty of 7 weight rods, but they are becoming a Steelhead specific rod more than a Steelhead/trout combo (although they still work great for trout on bigger waters like the Mo’). The 5 weight is starting to emerge as the perfect trout rod for many, and has enough guts to be used for light summer Steelhead fishing on the Grande Ronde, John Day, etc. (This is especially true with the never-ending drought conditions many interior Steelhead rivers are experiencing. The Grande Ronde, for example, consistently runs nearly half – 5-600 cfs vs. 1000+cfs – of what it idid when I began fishing it in the late 80’s. There are also far fewer high-water events from rain over the course of the fall.)

Winston (Micro Spey) and Sage (One Troutspey) are both getting attention for bringing these ultralight two-handers to the market, but remember that ECHO was there way before the big (expensive) guys. They’ve offered 4 weights for several years, and 3 weights for a couple.

The introduction of these baby spey rods has spawned the “Trout Quiver”. Both our staff and customers are beginning to roll a smaller 3 or 4 weight for super-light applications, and a larger 6 weight as a Trout/Steelhead combo rod. Typically the UL rod is rigged with a Skagit line, and the 6 weight with a Scandi.

Using a Skagit on the smaller rod may seem wrong, but there are a couple of reasons for it. Firstly, there are far more “short-head” light-grain Skagit lines available than Scandi. Secondly, using a mono running line/Skagit combo can overcome some of the distance and power issues you can encounter with a 3 weight spey rod. Lastly, we are often using these rods for in-close and deep work in late winter (think Walleye).

The 6 weight switch or spey, on the other hand, is typically used for long casts and near-surface presentations for both trout on the Missouri, and summer Steelhead on interior rivers like the Ronde, John Day and Salmon. A Scandi style head makes perfect sense. I you need to go deep and long for winter Steelhead, many of the newer 6 weight full-length spey rods will get the job done with a short Skagit head. If not, then you’re the guy that’s in the market for a 7 weight, or even 8.

The lonely 5 weight has long been the odd-man-out. Too small for Steelhead, and too big to fall into the “micro-spey” category. That is changing as we see more trout or “resident” only spey anglers. Looking for a do-everything rod for big and small fish and rivers, but you have no plans to go chase Steelhead or Salmon? The 5 weight is probably perfect. Remember that a 5 weight equates roughly to a 7 weight single hander (also the odd-man-out) and has plenty of power for big trout and big rivers, as well as other species like Carp, Drum, Pike, etc.

After four years of teaching spey clinics through the shop, two rod models have emerged as the perfect blend of performance and price. The ECHO TR and the Orvis Clearwater both cast great and sit at a great price point that allow new-buyers to keep plenty of dough in their pocket for heads, tips, flies, a nice reel and probably another rod. Experienced caster pick these up and don’t feel they are sacrificing much (if anything) in terms of casting performance, and you save hundreds. Both rods throw Scandi and Skagit lines equally well, and both cover all the sizes including the lighter end. A little bit of East Coast/West Coast going on here. The best casters I know try these and respond with “what else do you need?”.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

TWO BEST CHOICES – ECHO TR and ORVIS CLEARWATER

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ECHO TR – $350

The “TR” stands for Tim Rajeff, owner and head casting-guru/designer at ECHO. The TR is not a new model, and it has proved itself over the last several years as a versatile, powerful and popular rod in the the Spey market. Cosmetically it’s on it’s second generation with a matte green finish and a grip we really like both cosmetically and from a handling standpoint. It’s a light rod and is durable as well, a trait that is very important to us. If I had to say this rod leaned in the Scandi or Skagit direction I would say slightly to the Scandi. It’s a little faster than some rods at this price point. A little.

I have used a 6 weight TR all over the Skeena drainage with Scandi heads and never felt like I needed more (more expensive?) rod. A great caster, and at $350 it is very difficult to find a rod that casts $500 better, but it’s easy to find one that costs $500 more. The 12’6″ 6 weight is our bread and butter rod around here, but the 12′ 5 weight is coming on strong. ECHO now makes the TR in a 12′ 4 weight, the only 12′ under 5 weight rod that I am aware of. I am fishing this rod this year and really like it for the Mo’ with a OPST Commando head and Lazer running line. Not what I would put in the “micro” category, but that might be a good thing. While considered a Scandi-ish rod, the 6 weight casts a 450gr Skagit with no problem. Probably enough for most sink tip applications, and I’ve used that rig for BC Steelhead.

Just a money rod that performs. It’s not a rod for tech-geeks that want to sit around and disect rod/line designs. It’s a fishermans rod for those who consider rods “tools” and want to spend their time fishing. And we like that.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15886″][vc_btn title=”BUY” color=”default” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-tr-spey%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ORVIS CLEARWATER – $350

This rod has been very popular with our customers, and I have heard some very good spey casting instructors say that this is one of their favorite rods for newbie casters. But you won’t outgrow it. At least not soon. Cosmetically, it has a bit more of a PNW Skagit look, with a curvy grip and high-gloss green fish. It also leans a bit to the Skagit side, but like the TR it does both with ease. We’ve sold quite a few and I can’t recall seeing a broken one, so it has that durability factor we love.

The Clearwater is a touch easier caster than the TR, and probably won’t give you as much on the long end because of that. But it delivers plenty and I would have no problem fishing this rod all week on any Steelhead or trout river. It has excellent latent power that throws long, powerful casts with very little effort. If you’re into the casual style of sustained anchor casting this would be an excellent choice.

Like the ECHO TR, the 12’6″ #6 is the most popular at Headhunters, but also popular is the 13′ 7 model for winter Steelhead. The 12′ 5 weight is an awesome rod for the Missouri and light Steelhead. It’s a strong 5. Probably a #5.5.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15888″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Forvis-clearwater-spey%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_image image=”16035″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ECHO 3 – $550

The ECHO 3 is the flagship spey rod at ECHO. We’ve carried this model for a few years, mainly to have the exceptional 12’7″ 6 weight available. The ECHO 3 is beginning to emerge as our “premium” spey rod, however. At $550 it represent a great value without exceeding your mortgage payment. But for that $550 you are getting a beautiful, fast and powerful rod that compares very well to faster rods from Sage, Loomis and others that cost much more. You’ll get everything you would with more expensive rods in terms of performance, but with savings that allow you to build the rest of your kit up. It’s another very durable rod, perfect for backcountry trips up north.

Faster rods like these can be slowed down by overloading them with Skagit heads, if you’re more of a sustained anchor Skagit caster. This rod really shines, however, with a Scandi head or even mid-belly line. Tight loops and long casts are easy, and this rod can generate tremendous power. As mentioned, the 12’7″ #6 has no haters. If you attend one of our clinics, that’s what you’ll see in my hand as my personal demonstration rod. If you find me on a Steelhead river, you’ll see the same. It’s a great rod. The 13′ #7 is very popular as a dedicated tip-rod for Steelhead. Our only complaint is that ECHO has yet to produce a 11’7″ 4 and 12′ 5 weight. Would be so sweet…

We probably wouldn’t recommend these for a beginner, and they probably cost a little more than you want to – or need to – spend on your first spey rod. But for a high performance Steelhead/Trout combo at a great price, the ECHO 3 is unbeatable. Also, we sell a few (special order) ECHO 3 Switch rods (11′ #7) each year for spring fishing on the S. Fork of the Clearwater. Reviews are excellent.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15887″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-3-spey%2F||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Sage METHOD – $1050

Sage makes several models of Spey rods (too many?), but we have always focused on the fastest top-tier model. The TCX was one of our favorite models, and was replaced a couple of years ago by the Corvette red METHOD. These are fast action rods that are not forgiving of mistakes. They require some physical power to cast, and after a week on the Bulkley you’ll feel it in your arms and shoulders. So why get one? The performance – especially with Scandi heads – is outstanding. These are shooting machines and will throw all kinds of flies in nasty and windy conditions. People either love or hate the bright red paint job. We like it.

I usually love 12’6″ rods, and I like that Sage makes this model in 6, 7, and 8 weight 12’6″ models. This is the kind of rod that I am going to buy for a specific application, and I like that you can really dial the weight in. We also like the 11’9″ – as opposed to 11′ – length in the switch rods. Much better for spey casting and sink tips. We sell both 6 (trout/Steelhead) and 7 (Steelhead) models in both switch and spey configurations.

The METHOD is also a very popular  switch series. The 11’9″ 6 and 7 weight models are great for light summer Steelhead (7) and trout (6 weight). Until rod companies build some reasonably priced travel spey rods, these shorter – but powerful – switch rods are an ideal rod for a trip to Patagonia for big trout, or Iceland and the Canadian Maritimes for Atlantic Salmon. A little easier to travel with, and you can spey/swing or thrown upstream dries.  The price is also premium, however, and there are rods like the ECHO 3 that are right there in terms of performance. Probably not recommended for beginning casters for most Spey only situations. But if you’re an experienced caster looking for top-shelf performance and a do-everything rod, the METHOD is hard to beat.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15934″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fsage-method-spey-switch%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ECHO 3 GLASS – $299

Incredibly affordable, popular and fun at the shop is the ECHO Glass series of Spey and switch rods. These retro looking honey colored spey rods are slow and smooth, but with mega power. I’v never met a spey rod that I could make so many casting errors with, and still execute a good cast. It’s really amazing. Anglers who haven’t fished with one probably think of them as a “niche” or “gimmick” rod, but they ain’t. The 12’9″ 7 weight is an ideal sink-tip rod for BC or winter Steelhead, and Ninch uses his all the time on the Missouri. The 12’4″ #6 is a perfect rod for the Mo’ and coastal summer Steelhead. Our staff love the 4 and 6 weight switch models ($279) with short Skagit heads for both trout and Walleye.

Casting these rods is a little different. You need to slow down, and they like to perform an open kind of “whip” style of cast. But they do perform, and a good caster will not be giving up much distance with them. They cast Scandi lines much better than you would expect, but they shine with a Skagit head, sink tip and big old nasty on the end. The only complaint we hear is that the weight of fiberglass – while not noticeable to bigger, stronger casters – is too much for smaller casters. Women, in particular, cast this rod well but choose other models to have a lighter rod in the hand while fishing.

The price of these is ridiculous. For less than $300 you get a ton of fun, great performance and excellent durability. The softer tips on these rods are well suited to fishing sink-tips, and especially light biting fish. The switch models are only $279, and make an ideal “budget” micro-spey when compared to offerings from Sage, Winston, etc. And at under $300 you can afford to financially “test the waters” first.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15889″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-glass-spey-switch%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Sage ONE Troutspey – $950

Probably the most asked about rod in the shop this season, the new Sage ONE Troutspey is not just a shrunken version of another rod. It’s specifically designed as a trout specific spey rod that leans heavily towards the Skagit side of things. There are 2 models of the Troutspey, a 2 weight and 3 weight. Both rods serve a specific purpose. The 2 weight is designed for swinging small soft hackles and protecting light tippets. The three weight was designed specifically to throw larger streamers (up to a #4 heavily weighted) and rip a 10′ T8 MOW tip out of the water. Mission accomplished.

The team at Headhunters loves both, although none of us would call them “easy”. We recommend that you have some kind of spey casting competency. Even the best casters need a few minutes to figure out hand position, tempo and power (or lack of). The 3 weight is designed to use with very short Skagit heads and a “sustained anchor” style. We recommend either RIO’s new Skagit Trout Max (11′) or the OPST Commando head (12’6″). We have cast Scandi heads on these, but don’t really see the point. There are better rods at #4 for that, and the belly (D Loop) gets really long for some. Time for a Scandi Super-short from someone, which we need for the 2 weight. On the Missouri, we see no reason to swing tiny soft hackles on a Skagit head/tip.

So, the super relaxed, Skagit action with plenty of reserve power kind of puts these rods in a class by themselves. There are equivalent sized rods elsewhere that throw the line, and in some cases farther. But the 3 weight has the ability to throw some large flies and tips that most rods this size can’t. You need to be a dedicated Troutspey guy or gal – and an experienced caster – to justify the cost of these rods. If you are that person, you will probably really enjoy them.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15893″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fsage-one-trout-spey%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ECHO SR – $329

Headhunters has carried the ECHO SR (Switch Rod) off and on since we opened the doors. It’s not always our favorite rod, but there is little else available in some sizes at that price range. We brought it back this year in the 10’6″ 4 weight version, as a graphite alternative to the very expensive Sage ONE Troutspey. The ECHO SR performs great when lined correctly. If not it can make casting a bit tough. But at $329 it’s a much easier pill to swallow than micro-spey models from the Sage, Winston, etc.

Action-wise, I’d call it fast. It is designed as a “switch” after all, and has a light and fast enough tip to cast overhand. To us “switch” is over. No one we know is using a rod for both single handed and two-handed casting. So as a little spey we might have added a little weight to the tip, a few inches of length and changed the flex a touch. But, we’ve tried a bunch of heads on this guys and when lined right it sings. Our favorite is a 225 grain Skagit compact (18′). This is a bit underlined, and this combo casts more Scandi-like than Skagit. But it still throws a floating or sinking sink tip, poly-leader, and heavy fly. It’s a pretty sweet set-up. If you try to go too heavy with a super short Skagit head the tip collapses, which makes sense with most “switch” rods.

These good looking and tough micro-spey rods represent the best value we can find if you want to go really light. This would rod be especially valuable for medium sized freestones, and because it’s a switch rod, you could “switch” if necessary and toss a hopper dropper rig or nymph rig.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”16038″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-sr%2F||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

OTHER RODS

We have a few other rods bouncing around the shop for you to try as well. The Sage Accel Spey is a rod we wanted to bring in, but there are just too many series that bottom out at 6 weight. We did however, bring in the switch version, an 11’4″ 6 weight with a slow, smooth action that I believe some people will really like. This is a rod I would recommend for someone who fishes the Missouri a lot with a two-hander, and makes 1 trip a year to the Ronde or Salmon for Steelhead. Pretty interesting stick.

We have had some of the Thomas & Thomas DNA XF (Scandi) rods around for the last few years. The 11’7″ 6/7 is the ideal Mo’ rod on paper. In reality, it’s not quite perfect, but is still a great Steelhead/trout combo switch rod that prefers a floating line. Beautiful craftsmanship is not inexpensive.

We have a demo of the new 11’6″ #6 Redington Chromer, with the cool black rubber partial grips top and bottom. While it’s a good rod, most of our staff and clients though it was good. Not great. No one got excited about it. And at $399 it’s a little more than it’s competition. But if murdered-out black is you look, you may love it.

THAT’S IT?

Yes, that’s about it. We used to carry more models from more manufacturers, but in reality we need to inventory the rods people want. While there’s always someone out there looking for unusual models and makes, most of our customers are looking for fishing “tools”. They want the best rod for the price, and they want spey casting to be easy. And they want to catch fish. We feel that we’ve addressed that with this selection. Even if budget and space was a non-issue, I’m not sure how many more brands and models we would bring in. Our customers have spoken by supporting the rods above.

MY GEAR

This season I’ve chosen the ECHO 3 12/7″ #6 for my Steelhead/big trout rod, which I line with an Airflow Compact Scandi on a Hatch 7plus reel. Perfect for the Lewiston area, and I hope to make a trip to the CA. coast this winter. And for casting instruction it is a consistent, adaptable rod. For a lighter rig, I’ve chosen the new ECHO TR 12′ #4 mentioned above. Lined up with an OPST Commando Head, OPST Lazer running line directly onto my Hatch 5plus (no backing), it’s kind of a “macro-spey” rig. The extra length/reach is something I like for both casting and swimming my fly. I expect this rod to provide several Walleye-taco dinners for my family.

DEMO’S

Come by the shop and demo any of the above gear. As the demand for certain sizes move down a notch, we may not have 7 weight rigs available in all these models if you’re looking for that new winter Steelhead rig. If that’s the case, you usually can get a pretty good idea by trying the 6, or ask our staff if any of them have the 13′ #7 in the model you’re interested in.

We have tons of shooting heads and tons of folks that take advantage of that. And you don’t have to use our rods to demo the lines. It’s common for an angler to take out 2-3 grain weights of a shooting head to dial in the right model before purchase. Call the shop with any questions.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Friday Foto

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Randy Hicks of Rocky Mountain Angler in Boulder CO fishing with Headhunters in conjunction with the annual RIO Products trip to the Missouri.

Randy fishing the Missouri River for the first time. He has fished many other Montana rivers and now understands the allure of this great resource.

“Izaak’s, Joe’s Bar, downtown Craig, and the kick-ass Missouri will bring me back again. For sure.”

Well said Randy. We feel the same way. Craig is fun during the fall season. Lots of long timers and a few first timers along with our fat Bows always make the season bright.

Show your fall colors and embrace the full fall-dom.

Late September Missouri River Flies

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Flies for the late September time frame.

Fishing the last couple days pretty tough. Inconsistent for sure. Guides and anglers alike soaking their sorrows at both Izaak’s and Joe’s Bar the last couple nights.

The water levels dropped a bit and the high and bright sun didi not help with the bite at all.

This week ahead is looking way better for fall like weather. Bring it.

Here are some of the favorites for the last week of September.

Late September Missouri River Flies

Left Top to bottom
Logan’s Big Secret Hopper
Never Sink Trude
Quigley’s Split Flag Adams
Shimazaki CDC Ant

Middle Top to Bottom
Murdered Out Tungsten Zebra Midge
Green Weenie
Little Green Machine
Juju Baetis Tungsten
Egan’s Frenchie

Right Top to Bottom
Purple Lightning Bug
Tungsten Brush Hog
UV Yum Yum Smokey
Ninch’s Bubble Yum
Jesse’s Jemstoner Red

Montana Troutspey, spey fly fishing

I guess we’re starting Troutspey a little early…

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It seems like everyone is Jonesing to Spey. We still have several weeks of great dry fly and streamer action left! You’ll still be in shirt sleeves 6 weeks from now! But anglers are coming by, asking for the “swing” report, talking new gear and debating trout vs. birds vs. a quick run over to the Clearwater. So here we go…

SAGE ONE TROUTSPEY IN STOCK

The eagerly awaited for Sage ONE Troutspey is now in stock at Headhunters. Took long enough. A few are already spoken for, and a couple will immediately go into the demo fleet so you can take them out and see what all the fuss is about. Lots of folks coming by the shop and asking about these new ultra-light spey rods. Try or buy, you will like them either way.

We do have them on our online store, so if you don’t want to risk missing out on one, press “Buy”! If you hate it, we will work something out to get you into the right rod, or make a partial refund. I expect these to go relatively quickly, and I’m not sure what the backstroke will be like at Sage.

Troutspey Day #1

Spent Sunday on the river with local trout bum John Heckert, swinging the two-hander down around Cascade. John has been teetering on the edge of the Spey Canyon for a while. He fell in at our Labor Day sale when Ninch and Sara hooked him up with a used demo Echo Glass Spey rod. He does a lot of wade streamer fishing, so it only made sense.

This was John’s first time with a spey rod. We had an excellent instructional day, hitting both banks multiple times and adjusting our casts to the ever changing breeze. Perfect day to be out on the water.

The fishing? Meh. But we did tangle with a few fish. My first spey trout of the fall, and that’s nice. Still a bit early, and the lure of rising fish tempted us to break out the single handers a few times. If you do go, i would go really early and hit some of the long beaches. Swing it way in shallow until the sun hits the water. When there are lots of bugs available, the fish will ignore your swung fly.

Spending the day watching John adapt to a new style reminded me what a great rod the Echo Glass Spy & Switch series is. Really forgiving, but with tons of power and speed if you want it. The only negative that we’ve ever heard regard the weight in your hand. Not terrible, but definitely heavier than graphite.

Still too early

Yes, like I said it’s still bit early and I didn’t really expect the swinging to be phenomenal. But in a month or so, things will relay start to turn on. By Thanksgiving we will be hitting the peak of swing season. Hold your horses! You’ll have to deal with rising fish and incredible nymph for a while yet.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”14438″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]John Heckert concentrating during his first day with a spey rod. You can tell John is concentrating because he has his tongue out. Like this guy…[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”14439″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”14423″][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”8949″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Smoke and Fire Report

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Woke up early this morning and I could see the sky. Meaning I could see some definition, clouds, the sun itself. It’s been a few days. Very thick fire smoke has been plaguing North Central MT for a while now. It hasn’t had a negative effect on the fishing, but it has thickened to the point that the poor air quality is noticed by everyone.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_image image=”13805″ link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]A cold front is in the forecast today. It will bring some windy conditions to the region today, no good for the exhausted Firefighting Crews. Hopefully some precipitation, cooler temperatures and higher humidity will follow.

[forecast]

Evacuation orders are in place north of us for the communities of Essex and Heart Butte. Most of you probably haven’t been to Heart Butte, but in my mind it’s one of the most beautiful townsites in Montana. Here’s some images from our local TV station KRTV, who always does a great job with weather/disaster reporting in the area.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid columns=”3″ post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”13806,13807,13808″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_600_600_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”3″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”3″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]With the cooling temperatures, hopefully we will see a bit of a reprieve from the smoke in the next week.

If the smoke doesn’t bother you, the fishing has been very good recently, though still a bit inconsistent from day-to-day, stretch-to-stretch. For the most part very good.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Nixon Blaster Fishing

Fly Hacker: Camp & Boat Tunes

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Whether it’s a casual float/fish day with the family, the front of a flats skiff, or around the campfire in Steelhead camp, more and more folks are taking their music/media into the outdoors. It’s so easy now. You’re iPhone can hold thousands of tunes, and the myriad of Bluetooth speakers available offer great sound at an affordable price.

Before the carpet bombing begins, let me say that I am not promoting the blasting of loud music while fly fishing on the Missouri – or any other – River. You gotta have some respect, and keep the volume at a level that fills the gunnels of your boat, but no more. I often hit the “stop” button when I’m approaching a group of anglers. If it’s a bunch of college girls in bikinis, I turn it up.

But it’s not just for the boat. It’s always nice to play some mellow tunes at lunch, or in camp during the evenings. A quality speaker can even drown out the never ending ramblings of the “experts” that seem to show up no matter where I camped.

Headhunters pal and World Angler Jon Yousko (see the most recent Drake issue) turned me on to the Nixon Blaster ($125 at Nixon). This is by far the best on-water speaker I have used.

The rubber exterior can handle some serious bumps and bruises. You can literally throw it around, and it’s “weather-proof” as well. I would call it almost water-proof. JY and I have bombed around some heavy chop in the keys for days with the Blaster cranked as saltwater spray continually soaked it. Kept going. (full disclosure: I think JY finally smoked his first Blaster after long term continual use in the saltwater)

The rubber coating also makes it “stick” wherever you set it. That can be on the gear bags, the cooler or the console of a skiff. It doesn’t slide around. The Nixon Blaster also has excellent battery life, and I’ve yet to have mine run down in a single day.

Another huge advantage over some other BT speakers is that the nixon has volume, play/pause and skip buttons on the speaker. This means you can keep your iPhone protected somewhere safe, and still have reasonable control over what you hear.

But the most important thing when choosing a speaker is the sound, and the Nixon has excellent, deep sound that meets that of a high end Bose BT Speaker that I have at home. Good bass also means you can keep the volume down a bit.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_btn align=”center” target=”_blank” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nixon.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproduct%2Fthe-blaster-H028.html” style=”4″ label=”NIXON BLASTER” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2218px%22%7D%7D”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_image image=”12816″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]One of my favorite places to take some tunes is on a multi-day float trip. Tunes in the boat are great. But tunes in camp are a must have for some. Myself included.

The key here is charging the device. If you leave your iPhone on “Airplane” mode, it should last a couple of days. But the speaker is going to croak. Enter some lightweight solar panels.

Ultralight solar panels have been around for several years, but the technology and options have really improved in the last 2. I use the Anker 14W Dual -Port solar charger (Amazon). It costs $50, has a pocket big enough for a couple of USB cables and the corner grommets allow me to lash it the the top of the gear in the back of the raft.

On a 5 day Steelhead trip last fall, we played tunes while we charged both devices during the day, and played them all night in camp. Of course you will need sun, and there is no guarantee of that on a late-fall Steelhead trip in a steep walled canyon.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_btn align=”center” target=”_blank” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAnker%C2%AE-Dual-Port-Charger-PowerIQ-Technology%2Fdp%2FB00E3OL5U8%2Fref%3Dsr_1_1%3Fie%3DUTF8%26amp%3Bqid%3D1439332745%26amp%3Bsr%3D8-1%26amp%3Bkeywords%3Danker%2Bsolar%2Bpanel” style=”4″ label=”Anker 14W Solar Panel” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2218px%22%7D%7D”][us_image image=”12819″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]So that’s how we setup our Boat/Camp Tunes. Pretty simple, and amazingly affordable. Technology advances, and so do we.

I don’t roll this every day, but when the time is right (spring streamer fishing, Florida Keys, Steelhead Camp) I do. If I’m with anglers I don’t know or in a more intense situation, I don’t. As long as we keep the volume at a moderate level, everyone should be happy.

And while I love some AC/DC in Camp, I’m more likely to listen to some Wrinkle Neck Mules on the river…[/vc_column_text][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12821″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Mother Daughter Madison River Montana

Madison River Report

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[vc_row parallax_bg_width=”110″][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]A brand new Otter Raft from NRS has been sitting on it’s trailer in my garage since May. Pathetic. Last weekend, Julie and decided it was time to get it wet. Our search for some good flows for a family fish/float led us to the Madison River. A good excuse to get out of Craiglandia and do a little camping.

We chose that option over a Big Hole or Blackfoot mission, both of which are under “hoot-owl” restrictions. We don’t mind no fishing after 2pm, but both rivers are extremely low. Dad wanted some water to push that new raft down the river instead of doing it himself, and the Madison has it. I also wanted Adair to be able to row without navigating shallow boulder fields (above).[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12841″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Milky Way over our camp at the Palisades.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]After battling crazy traffic and crowds in Ennis (an art festival weekend), we slid into a campsite up at the Palisades. Nice and quiet, and a beautiful view.

Saturday afternoon turned out to be raining like Oregon, so we chose to hang around camp and do some fishing with our campsite neighbors. Adair went out with a boy her age and immediately stuck her first Madison Rainbow. All by herself on a Copper John while I was helping the other young angler get his fly out of the tree. Awesome.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12842″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]We had a chance to use Shuttlesnap for our shuttles while we were fishing the Madison. Headhunters is the Shuttlesnap provider on the Missouri River, so it was interesting to try it as a consumer. Worked great – as expected – and the Meadowlark Shuttle Service returned our request almost immediately.

The guys at Montana Trout Stalkers told us that Meadowlark quit taking shuttles at 10am on Monday because they were full (80 shuttles). Like I said, there were folks around. Good to know, as were were starting around 9am. Both Montana Trout Stalkers and The Tackle Shop gave us some good Madison intel.

Sunday saw some more unsettled weather with some big thunderstorms rolling through the upper valley. Out came the rain gear.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12840″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”12843″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Fishing was what I expected and what we were told upon arrival. Kind of tough, and the crowds don’t help. Hatches consisted of some fly ants, beetles and not much else.

But unlike the Missouri, you’re always sure to catch lots of little fish on dries, and they ate the Ant all day long. We caught a few good ones as well.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12837″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]The lack of great fishing didn’t really bother us. We were there to enjoy a beautiful river and float in normal flows. We roasted some marshmallows, looked for nymphs (which the Madison is awesome for) and enjoyed the end of summer. School starts in a few weeks.

I also caught the first trout on my beautiful Sweetgrass Rods, 7′ 3 weight “Pent”. I have been waiting for the right opportunitly to break it in. And an evening alone on the Madison seemed right. Of course I envisioned a 23″ Brown inhaling my Blooms Ant, but this 12 inch Rainbow is more than good enough. And what I expected.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12839″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]While the fishing wasn’t spectacular in the middle of the day, and the crowds were an issue, I still recommend the Madison River. The river, scenery and camping are all great. On a drought year like we’re experiencing, it’s a treat to float in normal to above normal flows.

If you’re into the “town” thing, Ennis has some great fly shops, festivals and food. It’s as legendary as a trout stream gets, and is full of fish. Many years ago I was a guide on the Madison, and I know that if you’re in tune with the river – which I no longer am – you’ll get the big ones. They are there. But even without them it’s a special place.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana Perch Fishing

Dual Sport

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]The other day top-guide Nick Stipech invited me to go do a little Perchin’ up on Holter Lake. He did some recon off the dock the evening before and said it was good. He though we should take my Towee Calusa skiff up there and hit some of the bays on the lake. Maybe get a Walleye or three as well.

Like many of the current crop of top fly-fishing guides, Nick is a Dual-Sport angler. On a rare day off, he’s just as likely to chase down a potential hot Walleye bite with his spinning rod, as he is to grab his 5 weight and hit some evening Drakes. In fact he’ll probably do both. Nick grew up on Michigans Upper Peninsula, an area famed for both conventional and fly fishing. Nick is enthusiastic about and excels at both disciplines.

After a quick lesson from Nick in the art of rigging a slip bobber, we were off and running. Once we patterned the Perch (realized they were right under the boat), we were into them constantly. We only quit because we ran out of bait.

Fishing is a Bloodsport, right?[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”12655″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”12656″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]After we figured out how to get overloaded stringer #1 into the boat and got the Perch on ice, we decided to do a little exploring around Holter Dam.

HOLTER PORTAGE

I didn’t know that the “portage” at Holter Dam was so well marked and easy to access. These portages were used quite a bit during the 2004-2006 Lewis & Clark Expedition Bi-Centennial. During those years we saw quite a few floaters doing the Astoria, OR – St. Louis, MO paddle (usually in canoes). We still see one or two float through Craig every year.

We’ve both seen one side of the dam many times. Pretty interesting to spend some time on the other side.[/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=”12661″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12660″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]We could only delay the inevitable for so long, so we headed back to the boat ramp and the dreaded fish cleaning station. Lots of fillet’s to deal with. Little ones. Thankfully the BLM has fantastic fish cleaning stations with water and “fish-grinders” that make the chore pretty easy.

What a great break from our usual routine. We love the Missouri River, the trout and the great hatches. But Craiglandia is an intense place. Customers have high expectations, and we place lots of pressure on ourselves to deliver every day. In July it’s busy, and talking “fly fishing” all day every day can wear on you.

Nice to get out in a low pressure environment and act like a couple of kids. Or a couple of kids with a cooler full of beer.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12666″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Crowds. Your Choice.

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]I’m going to ride along with some of Mark’s recent posts and advice, like this recent article about July Do Not’s. July is the time of year that the fishing is great, but the masses descend on Craig as well. Some with less than stellar attitudes.

These images were all taken within an hour of each other in 3 different spots. Pretty crowded, huh? I’m not trying to discourage anyone from fishing the Missouri River. The fishing is great. But this is what you are going to find for the next few weeks.

It’s crowded. No doubt. You don’t need to call the shop and ask us. It’s primetime, and to add to the fire many of Montana’s rivers are on “Hoot Owl” restrictions (closed from 2pm – midnight). Anglers with plans to fish elsewhere are no doubt going to find there way to the Missouri River. If the weather remains warm and dry, it will only get worse.

There’s nothing we can do about it. Looking back accomplishes nothing, so you don’t need to share with us that you’ve been fishing the Missouri for 42 years and you remember when you were the only one here. My colleagues on the Madison, Bitterroot and elsewhere have the same stories. There are a lot more fisherman and a lot more drift boats than there used to be. Deal with it and keep your whining to yourself.

If you’re the greedy type that has to fish the best water at the best time for the biggest trout and MUST have the same hole everyday, quit reading right now. There’s no hope for you people. Unfortunately, there’s also a lot of you people.

But, if you enjoy fly fishing for the experience, regardless (or because) of where it happens, then here’s a few tips:[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12550″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

HIKE UP A CREEK

Fueled by the massive amount of fly fishing media out there, we have become a culture of more/bigger/better anglers who also like to be seen in the cools spots. Instead of worrying about your Instagram posts, jump off a bridge and hit a creek. You probably won’t catch any Facebook worthy fish, but you’ll be shocked to find out that there are not more angler on creeks than there used to be. There’s less.

We have some decent creeks in our area, and they all fish OK. Most fish about the same, but if you explore you might find a few that are better than others.

One bit of advice. Just because it’s a ‘creek” doesn’t mean that it’s cold. Small streams suffer from the same effects of drought and warm temperatures. I often bring a thermometer to check the water temperatures during low and hot conditions. If the temp is over 65 degrees, head elsewhere.

DAWN PATROL

This used to be the go-to method to avoid the crowds, and it’s still pretty effective. But early doesn’t mean 7am anymore. It means sun-up. Which means of you’re closing down Joe’s at 2am, you only have 3.5 hours until you need to be pushing off the boat ramp. Choices.

If you do hit it early, you’ll find great fishing, including excellent attractor dry fly fishing. There will be few others out there, and those you encounter will feel more like early morning brothers than competition.

I like to move fast early in the morning. Why not? You have the joint to yourself. I also might avoid Wolf Creek to Craig, as I know that I will run into the massive throngs of wade fishermen around Lone Pine, who are also early risers.

The best part of early morning fishing, however, is the scenery. The Missouri River truly is an incredible place at sunrise. You know what the man said, “It’s all downhill after the sun rises”.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12549″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

SHEEP

Figure out where and when everyone is going, then do the opposite. This isn’t that hard to do if you’re familiar with the river. An hour at the bar in Izaaks will provide enough information. Which area did you not hear mentioned?

If you go this route, understand that you are often choosing a section that will have more moderate hatches, or is not fishing as well. That’s OK. Would you rather have a pod of 6 fish and no one in sight? Or a pod of 30 but feel like you’re back home at the subway station? Choices.

NOT TROUT

This isn’t my first choice. I’m more of a head for the mountains and dinky trout kind of guy. But more and more anglers are chasing Carp and other slimy species to get away from the crowd. An added bonus: Carp don’t care if the water is 75 degrees. In fact they like it!

You can find Carp above or below any of the Missouri River reservoirs (Toston, Canyon Ferry, Hauser and Holter), as well as below Great Falls. Below the Electric City you can also find Pike, Drum, Catfish, Smallmouth and the occasional very large trout.

Most of you won’t make this choice, but if you did you would have a blast. Popular with locals, but not with those who have planned their Montana Trout Fishing adventure for a year. Understood.

THE HIGH COUNTRY

We don’t have a ton of Mountain lakes along the Rocky MT Front, but there are a few worth the hike. If you’re in Southwest or Western MT, however, you can find hundreds of great high-elevation lakes worth fishing. If you really explore you might even find a high elevation creek worth exploring.

Get some exercise, enjoy some cooler air and water temperatures and relax. You might get addicted.

Obviously, this requires some level of physical fitness. It’s more of a young man’s game, but don’t sell yourself short as you age.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12551″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]None of this is anything you haven’t heard or read before. I’m simply reiterating it. But it’s a solid reminder that a little exploration, homework and attitude adjustment can bring you back to your fly-fishing center. Seeing some new water, even if it’s unproductive, is worth the trip. Now you know.

Here endeth the lesson…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Low Water and Weather – Outlook

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]I’ve long believed that extremely long periods of hot weather have a greater negative impact on trout and trout fishing than low water alone. We are heading into our normal “low flows” of summer. While we have enough to keep the flows above critical, we have none to spare. So far, we’ve escaped extreme hot weather of any duration.

The forecast for the rest of the month looks pretty good. No 90’s as of today. During lower water years it’s critical that we don’t experience too much hot (over 90 degrees) weather in June. We know we’re going to see hot air in July and early August, and don’t need the a jump start to increasing water temperatures in June. When we do, water temps increase too high too early, and the trout end of spending months instead of weeks in water temps at and above 68-70 degrees.

When this does happen – and it does – there is no reprieve for trout or anglers until the first freeze in the fall. So far, we’re looking OK.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”12243″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][vc_column_text]As a fly fisherman, you hear a lot of talk every year about water flows, snowpack, etc. You don’t often hear talk about air temperatures, which have equal or greater impact when combined with low flows. And the Earth isn’t getting any cooler…

I don’t lose much sleep over the fact that warm water affects your fishing. That’s fishing. Sometimes it sucks. Sometimes entire summers suck.

But long periods of warm water are hard on the trout, and that does bother me. Right now the trout in the Missouri River are in excellent condition. They have had excellent feeding and spawning conditions, and the hatches have been excellent providing lots of calories. Over the last few weeks we’ve seen large Browns and Rainbows – that were a little slender a month ago – put on a tremendous amount of weight. An excellent indicator of the health of both the river and trout.

With no excess water and a hot summer, conditions for growth and health could quickly change. And not only does the weather affect the health of our adult population of Rainbows and Browns, it has a dramatic affect on the recruitment of juvenile trout.

While we won’t have any runoff to speak of this season, we do have enough water to keep the flows above critical. We just need Mother Nature to keep us under 90. That will keep water temperatures cool enough and the trout feeding and happy. Hopefully biting your flies as well.

Here’s the outlook for the rest of the summer (through August) and it does not look too bad. Central Montana is forecast to be near normal for both temperature and precipitation.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”12245″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”12244″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]As for water, we are forecast to remain around 4000 CFS for the remainder of the summer. That would be great, and I hope it holds true. 4K and water temperatures that don’t get past the mid 60’s too often should keep our trout in great shape. While low flows are never good for the river, extreme air temperatures can be much worse.

The only thing that can offset hot air is more water. Unfortunately for Trout, we are living in a world that get’s drier and warmer every year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]