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About Jason Orzechowski

Outfitter, Fly Fishing Guide and Owner of Wolf Creek Angler - Chasing a dream, counting my blessings daily and writing about it in the midst of mountains, rivers and trout in amazing Montana.

F3T Tonight in Helena MT

We hope to see you tonight at the Grandstreet Theatre in Helena for the 2017 Fly Fishing Film Tour. Doors open at 6:30 pm, the show starts at 7.

The original and preeminent exhibition of fly fishing cinema, The F3T is a one of a kind experience. Each year fishy folk of all ages gather at premieres to soak up films from around the world, spin a few yarns amongst friends and dream about casts still unmade.

2016 marks The F3T’s 10th lap around North America and this year’s lineup of films is without question the best the Tour has ever presented. From Bolivia to the Seychelles, British Columbia and Patagonia, from Saskatchewan to Zambia and Virginia to Montana, the notable characters, unique storylines and unparalleled fishing in these films will lead you on an adventure around the globe!

In addition to showcasing world-class fly fishing films, The F3T is dedicated to supporting the local fly shops and conservation groups that form the backbone of our sport’s educational and environmental efforts. Discount F3T tickets are available at more than 150 fly shops across the country. A portion of those ticket sales go directly to support fishing and habitat-related conservation groups. In 2015 we raised over $300,000 for our conservation partners and have used our voice to bring greater attention and support to groups like Trout Unlimited, Wild Steelhead Coalition, Bonefish Tarpon Trust, Utah Stream Access Coalition, Stop Pebble Mine and many more.

Grandstreet Theatre is located at 325 N Park Ave in downtown Helena MT.

By |2017-09-21T19:02:09-06:00February 28th, 2017|Categories: Local Buzz, Uncategorized|Comments Off on F3T Tonight in Helena MT
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Reminder – Your 2016 Montana Fishing License Expires Tomorrow February 28th

Don’t forget it’s time to purchase your 2017 Montana Fishing License. 2016 licenses expire on February 28th.

This time of year we usually ask customers if they need a new fishing license and you’d be surprised just how many people have forgotten all about it and are fishing on an expired license. Don’t be one of them…pick up your license today.

While you’re at it, if you are a hunter remember that Resident and nonresident license and permit applications are due March 15th.

2017 Licenses available now at Wolf Creek Angler!

By |2017-02-27T18:41:39-07:00February 27th, 2017|Categories: Uncategorized|Comments Off on Reminder – Your 2016 Montana Fishing License Expires Tomorrow February 28th
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Weekend Report

March means midge madness on the MO photo by Wolf Creek Angler

The weather is on the chilly side this weekend with a chance for some snow tonight and into tomorrow and Monday but the river is in good shape with flows holding just shy of 3500 cfs with water temps in that 35-36 degree range.

We’ll see that west wind pick up throughout the day today but we’re definitely looking at fishable conditions with highs near 30 today and tomorrow.

We saw some decent midge action earlier this week so keep an eye out for that. Look for the calm water in areas protected from the wind and have your midge rig at the ready. Some of our go-to midge patterns are Bucky’s Midge Cluster, Black Sipper midges, Adams Midge, Grizzly Midge Clusters and the tried and true Griffiths Gnat. I like a Hi Vis Parachute Adams paired with a Bucky’s Midge Cluster.

We are well-stocked with all of these patterns and many more. We are your source for midges on the MO’!

Nymphing remains your best shot at putting a bend in the rod with bug selection remaining status quo though I would definitely think about adding a black or red zebra midge into the mix.  A #12 Tungsten Rainbow Czech with a gold bead trailed with a #18 black zebra could be the ticket but don’t turn your back on the pink stuff or the firebeads, it’s just been a little hit and miss as of late.

We recommend continuing to concentrate your efforts on the slow winter water but there are definitely fish being picked up in more transitional water (slightly faster, 4′ range) so don’t overlook those runs. The winter runs will produce but it’s time to start thinking outside of that box on occasion just to see.

It won’t be long before we’ll be trading in the nymph rigs for streamer rigs. Many have been sticking to swinging all winter long and while the swing is still the way to go, hitting the banks with a slow retrieve has been somewhat effective as well and will continue to improve as those water temps start to increase, hopefully soon. It is true that with the water being as cold as it is the fish will continue to be on the lethargic side but a well-placed streamer can change all that as instinct (and hunger) kick in and lethargy turns to aggression. Stick to the smaller patterns (buggers, clousers, leeches) for now and experiment with your retrieve. We like to combine the swing with a slow strip and plenty of pauses.

You’ll likely have more action with your nymph rig but you can’t beat that streamer tug.

Stop by the shop and check out what some consider to be the best streamer selection in the canyon.

We’ve got plenty of lodging available for the weekend and next week is wide open. I’m still seeing a good number of rigs headed to the lake but it seems we’re definitely on the waning side of Holter Lake ice action which means we’re anxious for the next warming trend and the business it will bring. By the looks of things it appears as though we’ll see those 40 degree temps return mid to late week next week.

Remember we’re offering the best deal on the river this winter with two nights of lodging and a full day guide trip for just $500 and NO CANCELLATION FEES. Don’t miss out. Book your trip with us today.

 

By |2017-09-21T19:01:45-06:00February 25th, 2017|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Weekend Report
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Back At It – Late February Missouri River Fishing Report

 

Presidents Day on the MO – photo by Wolf Creek Angler

We had a great shot of spring-like weather over the weekend brining the people out in droves, at least by February standards, to fish the Mighty  MO’.

We had, what was by far our busiest weekend of 2017 in the shop and even ended up opening some additional lodging to accommodate demand for the weekend.

It sounds like maybe things are coming to a close on Holter Lake as the ice continues to deteriorate but this may turn around as we’re looking at colder temps for the next while starting tomorrow. Fishing reports from our ice fishing guests were not very good last week but things reportedly improved over the weekend.

Similarly, reports from the river last week were less than stellar though Saturday was a better day and a busy day at that with the first full parking lot at the Craig Ramp we’ve seen this season.

Shamefully, last Thursday was the first day my boat had seen the water since November and while the fishing wasn’t all that, it was awesome to be out there again. This was the longest stretch of time I’ve gone without floating a river since I’ve owned a drift boat. I’m not one to shy away from cold weather fishing but this winter has redefined the parameters of cold weather fishing and has kept me inside and off of the water for months.

I was out again yesterday and had similar results with enough hook ups to keep it interesting but definitely on the slow side.

If you happened to be out there this weekend you probably noticed a few areas with an abundance of anglers and a lot of empty water elsewhere. The reason for this is that the fish are still concentrated in those slow, lake-like runs they call home for the winter months. The water temps are still in the 35-36 degree range and will be on the drop for the remainder of this week which is going to keep them right where they’re at for the time being.

We did hear a few reports of some decent streamer action over the weekend with some fairly aggressive takes which is not really in keeping with trout behavior in winter water but as I’ve said before sometimes all it takes is a couple of ticks upward as the sun warms the water to get those fish going. It’s definitely worth your time on the warmer, sunny days to ply the waters with a slow strip or swing. You might be surprised!

On the nymphing side it’s been status quo though finding a consistently productive pattern has been a challenge. We’re still running something heavy and pink as a point fly and trailing with various firebeads, sowbugs, lighting bugs, zebra midges…..etc. I’ve had better luck with some additional weight than without and while we have picked up a few fish in what you would consider transitional water  most of the fish are still being caught in the slow deep runs. My most productive rig has been about 9′ overall length with a single bb. Try something like a #12 pink weight fly, pink Amex or Rainbow Czech trailing a lightning bug,  sow,  zebra midge or firebead of some sort. It’s all about the depth for the most part though bug selection has definitely been playing a role as of late.

Your best bet is to have plenty of different bugs to show them. We can definitely help you out with that.

We’re back to winter for the ten day outlook with daytime highs in the 30’s and overnight lows in the teens and a chance for some sloppy wintery mix type precipitation for the next couple of days and while we definitely enjoyed the taste of spring we’ve got a lot of winter to go and we could definitely use some more precipitation in the high country.

Give us a call for current conditions or to book the Missouri River Fly Fishing trip of your dreams!

 

 

 

By |2017-09-21T19:01:46-06:00February 21st, 2017|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: , , , , |Comments Off on Back At It – Late February Missouri River Fishing Report
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Missouri River Mid Winter Getaway

Mid Winter Sun on the MO’

Seeking sunshine and a Missouri River Winter trout fix?

We’re looking at spring-like weather on the MO’ right now with temperatures in the mid 40’s and a fair amount of sunshine right on through the end of next week when we’ll see a return to more seasonable conditions.

The water is in great shape with current river flows holding just shy of 3500 cfs while the water temperature is creeping up towards the 36 degree sweet spot for winter fishing.

Nymphing, swinging, and maybe even some dry-fly action on midges if you’re lucky and while we can’t make any promises about the fishing, there’s always the potential for a great numbers day and regardless of how many fish you catch there’s nothing like a day on the water to cure your mid-winter blues.

Why not make a weekend out of it with a stay at Wolf Creek Angler? We’ve got the best lodging deals on the MO’ right now at just $99 (plus tax) for a cozy bungalow with full kitchen and private bath. The rooms sleep three comfortably with two twin beds and a pull out couch. We’re also offering a King Bed conversion for a $10 fee if you would prefer a king bed to the two twin beds.

We’ve got insane deals on winter guide trips at $350 for a full day and we’ve got an unheard of deal on two nights lodging and a full day guide trip for just $500 you simply can’t afford to pass up. And the best part…..NO CANCELLATION FEES, NO QUESTIONS ASKED.

There’s nothing better than sitting back and letting our guides do all of the work for you but if you prefer to do it on your own we’ve got everything you need for Missouri River winter success.

WCA is your Missouri River Winter Fly Fishing One Stop Destination with clean, affordable lodging; the fishiest guides on the river; shuttles; a bug selection you need to see to believe; drift boat and equipment rentals; great cold weather gear from Simms and Kast; LOOP rods and reels; Lines, leaders and tippet from RIO and ARC; eyewear from SMITH and piles of tools and accessories from the best brands in the business.

If you’ve fished the MO’ in the winter before then you know that the town of Wolf Creek is THE place to be. With the only bar/restaurant and the only gas station/convenience store between Helena and Cascade, Wolf Creek is the hub of activity during the winter months. Couple that with a first-rate Missouri River fly shop and great lodging just minutes from Holter Dam and Wolf Creek Bridge and you’ve got no reason to go anywhere else.

We hope you make us your Montana Mid-Winter Fly Fishing Getaway Destination.

 

By |2017-09-21T19:04:36-06:00February 15th, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Missouri River Mid Winter Getaway
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Mid February on the MO’

February fishing on the MO

It’s starting to feel a little more like late winter with longer days and more moderate weather conditions but I have a feeling we’re probably far from done with winter weather so don’t put the shovels and cold weather gear away just yet.

That being said, we’re looking at a very spring-like week here on the MO’ with abundant sunshine and highs near 50 expected all week.

The ramps are clear for the most part and much of the shelf ice has disappeared but keep in mind the water is still very cold and you are likely to encounter some treacherous spots where ice remains so please be careful out there.

I have a feeling we’ll see a little more boat traffic out there from here on out which is a welcome sign of spring to me. I don’t mind wade fishing in the winter, in fact winter is the only time I wade fish the Missouri but I for one am excited to be back in the boat.

The minimalism of wade fishing is nice. Carrying what you need on your person forces you to limit yourself to one discipline and stick to it. I used to carry a streamer rod and a dry-fly rod on my walk in outings but gave it up. It’s just not practical to carry two rods and limiting yourself to one option forces you to work hard at that option. This is a good thing!

Stay focused on the slow winter water. Again, the water is very cold and the fish aren’t overly active. They are in extreme energy conservation mode so while they do need to eat, they aren’t going to expend any more energy than is absolutely necessary to do so. You’ll need to find them and make it easy on them by presenting a meal they don’t have to work for. They are hungry and they will eat. You just need to put the flies in front of them. Once you get that figured out you could very well be in for some great days of winter fishing on the Missouri.

There’s no time like the present! Following a week of frozen plumbing woes at WCA, we are back in shape with plenty of lodging available. $99 for a cozy bungalow with full kitchen and private bath. The rooms sleep three comfortably with two twin beds and a pull-out couch.

New this season, for a $10 fee we are offering a king bed option (instead of the two twins) for those interested. Please let us know at the time you book. Remember we are Dog Friendly but we do charge a $25/dog cleaning fee so please inform us ahead of time if your dogs will be joining you. We’re still running at somewhat limited lodging capacity but we’re keeping an eye on the weather and will likely open up more lodging soon.

Don’t forget we’ve got some great winter specials going on as well. Full day guide trips on the MO for just $350 OR two nights lodging and a full day guide trip for just $500 (plus tax). You won’t find a better deal ANYWHERE!

We are your Missouri River winter fly fishing destination with everything you need for your time on the water. Shuttles, bugs, Adipose and RO Drift Boat Rentals, Simms cold weather gear, Loop rods and reels, the best guide trip and lodging deals around and much more.

 

By |2017-02-13T18:08:42-07:00February 13th, 2017|Categories: Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , , , |Comments Off on Mid February on the MO’
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Getting Green

The transformation continues as February snows transform the browns and yellows on the SNOTEL snow water equivalent map to the greens and blues we’ve been waiting for. Lately it’s been changing for the better daily as moisture-rich snows continue to accumulate in the high country.

Meanwhile on the MO’ a warm front is moving through. We saw a high of around 9 yesterday. Right now we’re sitting at 45 and will flirt with 50 before the day is done. As is usually the case, the warm up will be accompanied by plenty of wind and while it’s calm now there is a high wind warning in effect from 11 AM today through midnight tomorrow night with southwest winds at 25-35 mph with gusts as high as 65 mph expected.

The wind will likely make fishing conditions less than optimal for the weekend but next week looks ideal with temps in the high 30’s,  a good mix of sun and clouds and at this point not much for wind in the forecast. This is the winter weather we’ve been waiting for!

The water is cold, still just shy of 35 degrees, but  it’s in good shape with flows holding in the 3500 cfs range. Winter rules apply  in spite of warmer air temps as it’s going to take some time to reach those 35 and 36 degree water temps which seem to make all the difference in the world.

Target the slow stuff. Think pink and run deep if you’re going to bobber fish and hit EVERYTHING as the takes can be super subtle in the cold water. Often that slight pause is the take….hit it! An ultra sensitive indicator like a balloon or yarn indi will give you a much better read of what’s happening below and could very well increase your hook-up rate but we tend to keep it simple using the same rigs we fish any other time of year. We are big fans of a 3/4″ Airlock Indicator (or Thingamabobber) and while they may not offer quite as delicate of a presentation I don’t think it makes much of a difference when fishing a deep rig. Again, the big advantage of the more sensitive indicators is that they give you a better read of what’s happening below the surface but it’s not as though you’re going to double your hook ups by ditching the bobber. Regardless of what type of indicator you are using you need to learn to read what it’s telling you, especially this time of year. If you’re waiting for a diving bobber before you set you’re likely missing most of the takes.

Some of our favorite winter nymps; Casne’s Pinkalicious, Pink Weight Fly, Ninch’s Thunderbug, Ninch’s Bubble Yum Scud, Pink Lightning Bug, Firebead sow in pink or grey, Firebead Ray, Pink Amex, Rainbow Czech, Rainbow Warrior, black Zebra, San Juan Worm, soft hackle sow. We’re fully stocked on all of these and MANY more. Pick a pairing you like, find the right water and the right depth and you’re on your way.

Plenty of swinging going on out there as well. Buggers, Polar Leeches and Hot Head Kreelex are all you need but don’t be afraid to experiment with any of the MULTITUDES of other patterns in stock now at Wolf Creek Angler.

Things should improve by next week but if you’re going to give it a go during these next few days please be cautious. The ramps are collectively sketchy and there is a lot of shelf ice everywhere.

Give us a call for current conditions and everything you need to know before you hit the river.

 

 

By |2017-02-09T18:07:54-07:00February 9th, 2017|Categories: Fishing Report|Comments Off on Getting Green
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Thinking Spring

The snow continues to pile up but we’re thinking spring at Wolf Creek Angler

It’s two degrees in Wolf Creek today but as we close in on just under six weeks until the first day of spring we cant help but begin to get excited about the rapidly approaching season.

Winter continues to make its presence felt with frigid temps and plenty of snow over the past couple of days. We’ve got more snow piled up around the shop right now than I’ve seen in my years here and we didn’t get a fraction of what our friends in NW Montana  got over the last couple of days with some areas receiving up to 50″ of new snow.

The Montana SNOTEL Snow Water Equivalent map is beginning to transform into what we like to see and while much of the region is still below 90 percent of average we’re seeing more and more green (and some blue) daily which we’re hopeful will mean a good water year again on the MO’ and hopefully around the region. With plenty of winter ahead we are optimistic conditions will be ideal.

The SNOTEL Water Year map for total precipitation (% of average) looks even better but keep in mind this is total precipitation, not snow pack.

So what’s it all mean?

Once again, it’s still early to tell but we like what we’re seeing. We will hopefully continue to accumulate snow pack in the high country but as always, the unknown is the amount of precipitation we will see in the spring which will ultimately determine what we see for water this year.

The latest predictions from the Bureau of Reclamation are calling for most probable average flows on the Missouri below Holter in the 4ooo cfs range based on current conditions at Canyon Ferry Reservoir which at this point  is 75% full which is 95% of the 30 year average for this date. Translation….good most probable flows but the Max Probable would be even better with a nice 10K flush in June.

It looks like we will see a hint of spring at the end of this week with temps in the high 30’s and low 40’s beginning on Thursday. The 10 day is calling for plenty of sunshine and sustained moderate temps through the end of next week so we may be on our way.

As we move towards the more mild temps of mid to late winter keep in mind Wolf Creek Angler has the undisputed best deal on the water this winter with two nights lodging and a full day of guided fishing with the best guides on the river for just $500 plus tax and NO CANCELLATION FEES!

Whether you’re fishing with our guides or doing things on your own, make us your first stop on the way to the MO’.

We are your Missouri River fly fishing one stop shop with clean and affordable accommodations, great guides and THE up and coming Missouri River fly shop fully stocked with anything you need for your day on the water.

Shuttles; Adipose and RO drift boat rentals; cold-weather gear from Simms and Kast; wading gear from Redington; rods from Loop, Echo and Redington; reels from Ross, Nautilus, Loop and Echo; Nomad nets and accessories a plenty from Fishpond; all kinds of great WCA logo gear and of course the biggest and best selection of bugs ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

By |2017-02-07T19:32:02-07:00February 7th, 2017|Categories: Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Thinking Spring
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Long, Cold Winter

Well the groundhog says six more weeks of winter.

We’re not going to argue but I’d be lying if I told you I wasn’t growing weary of winter weather.

Don’t get me wrong, we’re happy to have the snow (which is still only 70-80 % of average throughout much of western Montana) and the cold is keeping it here but we are anxious for warmer days.

I haven’t fished much this winter, only getting out twice in January, and I haven’t floated the river since November. We had a brief respite from the cold earlier this week and I enjoyed a couple of hours out there on Monday, closing out January with a few fish to hand.

February rolled in on Tuesday with more snow and cold and it’s been back to sub arctic conditions for most of the week.

There is a warm up coming this weekend with highs reaching 30 tomorrow and Sunday looks to be a nice day (for a Super bowl) with partly sunny skies and highs breaking the 40 mark before plummeting again on Monday back into the teens for the first part of next week.

I’ll believe it when I see it but at this point it looks like we may start to see some warmer days towards the end of next week with average highs in that 40 degree range again for next weekend.

Ideally we’ll start to see some sustained periods of warmer weather here on the MO while the high country continues to get that much-needed precipitation. We’re all anxious to get out on the water again and while we’ve kept busy with lodging all winter with the ice fishing crowd we’re definitely ready to see some more traffic in the shop. Spring shipments are starting to arrive so expect some great deals on winter gear in the not to0 distant future.

Stop in and see us this weekend for shuttles and bugs and anything else you might need for your day on the water. Pink flies aplenty and bins full of streamers you can’t get ANYWHERE else. Take a look at that long-term and pick a day to come take advantage of the best deal on the Missouri. Two night’s lodging and a full day guide trip for one or two anglers  with the best guides on the river  for just $500 with NO CANCELLATION FEES. Don’t need the lodging? $350 for a day on the water. The perfect cure for your Cabin Fever and those Winter Time Blues!

 

By |2017-02-03T19:39:38-07:00February 3rd, 2017|Categories: Uncategorized|Tags: , , , , , , , |1 Comment
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Late January on the MO’

Winter Fare at Wolf Creek Angler

It’s hard to believe it but we’re already a month into 2017. In some respects this winter feels like a slow grind but in other ways it feels like it’s flying by. Either way, before you know it we will be fully immersed in the season and the snow and endless cold will be but a distant memory.

Looking back at last year’s mild winter we were doing a lot more fishing through these months. Not that there aren’t a few folks out there doing it on any given day, but the deep freeze has kept many of us inside for the most part.

It’s not all bad. Winter projects are getting completed which will make it a guilt-free spring on the water knowing the things you intended to get done during the off-season actually did get done.

We’ve had a couple of minor warm-ups which have definitely resulted in an increase in traffic on the river but at 34 ish degrees, the water is still too cold to get those fish going. 35 would be an improvement, 36 plus is what we’re waiting for.

When will we get there? It’s hard to say for sure but I’m optimistic about February which is going to start on the cold side but sooner or later it’s going to warm up enough to bring the water temps up and when it does we will be poised and ready.

Speaking of warm ups, it looks like we’re in for a nice weekend with high 30’s and low 40’s through Monday. I expect we’ll be busy in the shop as there are a lot of people suffering from some extreme cabin fever right now who will be looking to self-medicate with a dose of the MO’. Couple that with a football free Sunday and we may be in for our busiest weekend of 2017 to date.

If you intend to float this weekend the good news is the ramps are clear for the most part  though it’s always a good idea to check them out for yourself before you go. If you’re wading there is still a fair amount of shelf ice around so please be careful.

It might be the perfect time to take advantage of our INSANE Winter Guide Trip and Lodging Special. $500 for two night’s lodging and a full day on the river for one or two anglers with one of our exceptional guides with NO CANCELLATION FEES, NO QUESTIONS ASKED! Don’t need the lodging? $350 for a full day on the MO’ for one or two anglers all winter long.

Nymphing will likely be your best bet for hookups targeting the slowest, foggiest water you can find. A #10 or #12 Pinkalicious, Ninch’s Bubble Yum Scud, Rainbow Czech, Pink Amex or Pink Weight Fly paired with a #18 pink lightning bug, Ninch’s Thunderbug, firebead sow bug in grey or pink, rainbow warrior, firebead Ray…..etc fished deep and true should do the trick. Hit the dip, hit the pause, hit the drop….hit everything as the takes are often extremely subtle in these conditions.

We’ve seen a lot of people swinging this winter as well, maybe just as many as we’ve seen nymphing. The Hot Head Kreelex has been by far the most consistent choice on the streamer side with polar leeches and anything in white getting attention as well. Swing or slooooow upstream retrieve. They aren’t going to chase, not until things warm up a lot!

Stop by WCA on your way to the river for shuttles, bugs, Simms cold-weather gear, Loop rods and reels, ARC lines and tippet and anything else you may need for your day on the water.

 

 

By |2017-01-26T17:15:57-07:00January 26th, 2017|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: , , , , , , |1 Comment
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