It finally feels a little more like winter this morning with single digit temps as we close the books on January and a tumultuous start to 2021.

That being said, we’re thankfully a LONG way from the world and the tumult and we’re headed right back into a continuation of the mild weather patterns we’ve been seeing all winter long with highs in the low 40’s expected through the weekend. Awesome conditions for late January fishing on the MO…not so great for snowpack and the resulting summer stream flows.

So while you should absolutely take advantage of the situation and get out on the water let’s all hope for some winter weather soon.

Don’t get me wrong. I haven’t missed shoveling snow or white-knuckling it from Helena every day but we need the precipitation and I’d rather have it now than at winter’s end so hopefully we’ll see some winter weather soon….at least in the high country.

In the meantime business has been steadily picking up, especially in the lodging department. After all, what better way to spend the winter days than soaking up the winter sun on the Missouri and maybe even catching a trout or two.  

Even with the weekend traffic there is still an abundance of solitude to be found as there simply aren’t that many people to whom winter fishing is all that appealing and that’s ok as it really opens it up for those hardcore anglers who don’t see fishing as a “season” but as just something you do any and every day of the year that you can.

Flows remain steady (and low) at right around 4000 CFS (4030 at the time of this writing) and the water temps are hovering just shy of 34 degrees. Winter water conditions for sure.

If wade fishing in January is on your radar then you likely know the program but my advice to anyone who wants it is that even if it seems like a really nice day you’re much better off overdressing than underdressing. After all, even if it’s a 42 degree day with light and variable wind, you can only stand in 34 degree water so long before the cold starts to seep in whether literally or figuratively and hopefully it’s figuratively because the last thing you want is leaky waders when plying winter water. And speaking of waders,  while stocking foot waders will work, boot foot waders are what you want in the winter. Yes they’re expensive, but well worth it as far as I’m concerned. It’s a world of difference between the two.

Simms offers the best boot foot waders on the market in both the G4Z and G3 models, however they are custom order only. Please give the shop a call if you’re interested in ordering a pair.

Regardless of which type of waders you are using you’ll want to layer extensively underneath to keep the chill at bay.

WCA has you covered from head to toe with all the best layering, socks, hats and gloves from Simms.

Our lodging is full this week but we do have rooms open for the weekend and don’t forget our Winter Guide Trip and Lodging Special – Full day trip for one or two anglers and TWO nights of lodging for just $550 (plus tax)

The shop is open at 8:00 AM Tuesday – Saturday and we’re open for guide trips and lodging EVERY DAY whether the shop is open or not.