Fly Fishing The Missouri River in Montana

The Missouri River, located in Western Montana, is well known for its outstanding hatches and hard fighting trout. A diverse population of insects and "spring creek" like water below Holter Dam makes it an outstanding dry fly fishery, arguably one of the best in Montana. Large in size, it spans 300 feet across in many areas. Be sure to read the Missouri River regulations before venturing out to fish. There are a few Specific Regulations that apply along its journey.

The Missouri River begins at the junction of the Jefferson, Gallatin and Madison which are three outstanding rivers in their own right. This junction is rightfully named Three Forks. From this junction the river flows for approximately twenty miles before reaching Toston Dam. This stretch of the Missouri runs slow and warm during the summer months. It is not very popular with trout fishermen although there are some fish to be found.

Below Toston, the river flows for approximately twelve miles before reaching Canyon Ferry Lake. Gentle sloping hills and meadows surround the riverand this stretch of water is more desirable for trout fishermen. The trout fishing here is for reservoir run fish which are quality browns and rainbows. These fish can be found throughout this stretch at certain times of the year. Rainbows migrate up river in the spring while the browns migrate up in the fall. Rainbows will also follow the browns in the fall to eat their eggs. Some resident trout are also found throughout this twelve mile piece of water.

Below Canyon Ferry Lake the river flows for approximately one mile to Hauser Lake. This short stretch of river is noted for very large fish and also a lot of fishing pressure. Large streamers and nymphs usually work best in this area.

From Hauser Dam to Holter Lake the Missouri is once again known for its migrating trout. At the right time of year, you have the chance of catching a "lunker". This is also a recreational area with many other outdoor activities available. We have finally made it! After passing three dams already, the next is the most significant by most standards. Below Holter Dam the river takes on its characteristics as a large "spring creek". This tail-water stretch all the way to Cascade spans twenty five miles of cold water. Trout flourish in these waters and the abundant population of insects makes it a great dry fly fishery. These are resident trout unlike most of the fish in the other areas above Holter Lake and are known as "reel screaming" river fish. These fish will easily strip you into your backing especially on the light tippets needed to fool them.

The water from Holter dam to Cascade is very flat in most areas. Riffles and runs break up the large pools in some spots and an area called Half Breed Rapids makes drifting through nearly impossible. Along this area from Holter Dam to Cascade are the towns of Wolf Creek, Craig and Hardy. The river flows northeast to Great falls and eventually east through Fort Peck Lake reaching North Dakota several hundred miles later. Access to the Missouri is gained via route 287, Interstate 15 and secondary roads. There are many access points along the river to either wade or float fish from. Contact a local shop for more details.

Hatches on the Missouri include a few different insects. Blue-winged Olives, Pale Morning Duns and Tricos make up much of the mayflies. Tan, black and October caddis make up much of the caddis hatches. Although there is not a diverse range of hatches the ones that do occur come off in very large numbers. The water at times can be covered with bugs making the fishing difficult but exciting. Changing currents also make getting a drag free drift very difficult. Look for feeding lanes, also called "scum lines", to form where food is funneled to the trout.

If you're coming to the Missouri River the closest airports with commercial flights is in either Helena or Great Falls. Helena will put you closer to some of the other fabled rivers to the south if variety is what your looking for. The Missouri River is one not to over look. Its diverse waters are among some of the finest in Montana. The next time you're planning a trip, why not visit the following for Lodging , Guides and Fly Shops