Shop Life Archives - Page 22 of 23

As Always….Change is Underway at WCA

WCA – New and Improved as Always

It’s been a busy winter behind the scenes at Wolf Creek Angler and while we haven’t had a whole lot going on in the shop day-to-day we’ve been plenty busy with all that goes on to make your WCA experience better every year.

Whether you’re lodging, fishing, shopping with us, simply visiting our website or all of the above you’ll find plenty of changes as we maintain our commitment to continuous improvement in every part of our business.

Some of these changes are obvious, some you’ll probably never notice though you would if we didn’t make them.

Let’s start with lodging.

Lodging is definitely a huge part of our business and while we would love to update and remodel everything at once we have chosen instead to plot a more gradual course.

If you’ve been a guest over our first three seasons you’ve probably noticed some of these changes. New towels, new furniture, new paint, the occasional new mattress…these are the types of changes on which we’ve focused our efforts. We’ve got an infinite list of improvements for each room and our strategy has been to address major issues and then make small improvements on the amenities side to make your stay with us as comfortable as it can be.

Visitors this season will find significant improvements in many of our rooms ranging from fresh paint, to new shower heads, to new carpet to new linens etc. and if you’re fortunate enough to be booked in #8 you’ll find a complete room renovation which is the model for renovations in the remaining motel units in the not too distant future.

What’s new in the shop?

As always, the challenge of bringing new product lines into the shop is an uphill battle to say the least. The Missouri has no shortage of fly shops and while we are removed from the self-proclaimed epicenter of Missouri River fly fishing we definitely operate in the shadow of Craig and therefore must navigate with caution as we lobby to earn the privilege of being able to offer you products from the best name brands in the business.

We’ve come a long way from where we were when we started and you can rest assured we will not give up the fight. Last fall we scored a HUGE victory in this fight with the addition of Simms sportswear, outerwear and accessories to our product offerings.

This spring you’ll find all sorts of new gear from great names like Simms, Fishpond, Redington, Smith Optics, Kast, Echo, LOOP, Ross, Nautilus, ARC, RIO, Trout Hunter, and more. We’re also excited to announce we’ve added Korkers wading boots to our product line and we’ve added a bunch of new logo gear featuring our new logo which debuted last spring.

We stand behind all of the products we sell and we wouldn’t be selling them if we didn’t believe in them. We are also well aware of what we don’t have and you can rest assured we are working on it. In the meantime, as I’ve said before, if we don’t have it or can’t do it we are happy to connect you with the folks who do or who can. There are a lot of resources between Wolf Creek and Cascade and there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to get exactly what you want when you want it. Don’t get me wrong, we want your business but more than that, we want to serve you and if that means sending you to another shop to get something we can’t offer you we’re happy to do it.

Have you checked out our website lately?

If you’re reading this then the answer is yes and we appreciate your being here.

We try hard to keep things current and to freshen up the site with new images on a fairly regular basis. Please take some time and look around. A couple of new highlights include the LUNCH section on our Services page and some changes to our guide roster.

We’re excited to partner with The Hub Coffee in Helena to offer you the best guide lunches on the Missouri and we will also be offering these same amazing lunches for our unguided lodging guests.

Look for a blog about our great guides in the near future but for the time being we’re super stoked to introduce you to Jeff Jennings and Kelly Harrison who have joined our team this season.

We hope you like the changes and we’re excited to see you soon in Wolf Creek Montana.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-09-21T19:04:36-06:00March 15th, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: Jeff Jennings, Kelly Harrison, Missouri River, Montana, running line, The Hub Coffee, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Winter’s Last Gasp?

While we are currently sitting at just shy of 20 degrees and are under a winter storm warning through this evening a major warm up is on the way. Could it be that this is winter’s last gasp?

Not likely. But regardless, we are looking at mid 40’s for the weekend and it looks like we’ll hit 60 next week as the official start of spring looms, now just 10 days away.

Ideally things warm up and the snow goes away locally while winter holds tight in the high country for a while which looks like it’s going to be the case judging by the latest SNOTEL map which continues to grow increasingly blue indicating snowpack over 110 % of average for much of the region.

We’re expecting it will be busy on the river this weekend and next week, at least by late winter standards, with nice weather, warming water and hungry fish looking for a spring feast.

We’ve got plenty of lodging available and will be opening more soon to accommodate your early spring fishing plans. We’ve been doing a few trips here and there but guide trip season will get underway in earnest next week as the spring special trips start to roll. We’ve still got plenty of availability for March but April is starting to fill as word has gotten out about THE BEST SPRING FISHING DEAL ON THE MISSOURI….HANDS DOWN! $500 for two night’s lodging and a full day on the water with the hardest working guides on the river through the end of April.

You won’t find a better deal ANYWHERE!

Even if you don’t take advantage of our $500 special we’ve got great rates on guide trips without lodging as well as lodging without guide trips. $350 full day guide trips through the end of April and lodging in our cabins or bungalows for just $99/night plus tax.

It’s going to be a spectacular spring on the MO’ and the shop is fully stocked with everything you need and more with new shipments of Missouri River fly fishing essentials arriving daily. We’ve got cold weather gear from Simms and KAST; wading gear from Redington and Korkers; eyewear from Smith Optics and CLiC; Nomad nets, packs and accessories from Fishpond; lines, leaders and tippet from ARC, RIO and Trout Hunter; rods from LOOP, Echo and Redington; reels from Nautilus, LOOP, Ross, Echo and Redington and the near LEGENDARY largest selection of bugs ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

Don’t miss our ever-expanding streamer selection including a bunch of EXCLUSIVES from ZK you won’t find ANYWHERE ELSE. Streamer Season is upon us and while we unapologetically love nymphing any time of year and love to fish dries to sipping trout on warm summer days (and cold winter days as well) it is chucking streamers that really gets us fired up. It’s all about the chase!

We’ve got a bunch of new WCA logo gear you’re going to love and you’re going to want to keep an eye on our sale rack throughout the spring as we clear out the cold weather gear and make room for warmer weather fare. That means the best deals you’re likely to find anywhere on top quality gear from the best brands in the business.

We’ve also offer RO and Adipose Drift Boat rentals and Missouri River shuttle service and if we don’t have it or can’t do it, we’re happy to connect you with the people who can. We pride ourselves on having a great relationship with every other shop in the area and while it’s no secret we are all competing for your business our business as a collective is taking care of your fly fishing needs and we will gladly send you to another shop if we aren’t able to accommodate you.

We think it’s going to be a great season on the MO’ and we hope to see you soon.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-09-21T19:04:36-06:00March 10th, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: fly fishing, Kast Gear, Missouri River, Missouri River Spring Special Guide Rates, Montana, Redington, RIO, RO Drift Boats, running line, simms, spring fishing, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Wolf Creek Angler Spring Special – The Best Deal on the MO’ Hands Down

The official start of spring is just 20 days away and while we’re still watching the snow fly and cursing the cold on a fairly regular basis it won’t be long before we’re enjoying some of the best nymphing and streamer fishing of the year as the water starts to warm up and the fish awaken from their winter slumber hungry and eager.

We’re welcoming spring and welcoming you back to the MO’ with THE BEST Spring fishing and lodging special you’ll find ANYWHERE.

$500 (plus tax) for two nights lodging and a full day on the water with one of our expert guides through the end of April .

You’ll stay in comfort in one of our cozy and clean cabins or bungalows. Each unit is furnished with a full kitchen and private bath. They sleep three comfortably with either two twin beds and a pull out couch or a full and a twin with a pull out couch. New this season we are also offering a king conversion for a $10 charge.

We consider our guides to be among the hardest working, most professional (and fishiest) in the state and after a long, cold winter they are ready to get back at it. Your trip includes approximately 8 hours of expert instruction, any tackle you need, flies, lunch, non-alcoholic refreshments and transportation to and from the river. The only thing not included in the trip price is your Montana fishing license and guide gratuity.

Our lodging/guide trip special is designed for those traveling some distance to get here. Arrive the night before your trip, relax and get a good night’s sleep with no traveling to do in the morning.

Don’t need the lodging? No problem! Spring rates are $350 for the day and are in effect NOW through the end of April.

Don’t need two nights? Regular spring rates are just $99/night (plus tax) and are also in effect NOW through the end of April.

You’ve got two months to take advantage of the HOTTEST deal on the Missouri River. There are other deals out there, NOBODY can touch this one.

Call and book your trip today. A deal like this is sure to fill the boats and the beds in short order.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-09-21T19:04:36-06:00March 1st, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: Missouri River, Missouri River Spring Special, Montana, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

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 Jason Orzechowski|2017-09-21T19:04:36-06:00February 15th, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: fly fishing, Holter Dam, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, RIO, running line, simms, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

On the Road Report: Political Refugee Edition.

Over the past few weeks, with the mercury on the rise, water across the state flat-lining and the political climate starting to resemble an episode of Jerry Springer straight out of a Kafka book; I’ve found myself more often than not, getting the hell away from everything. I’m already done with hearing the political talk at the bars and on the river. Combine the never ending political ramblings with the unavoidable heat, lets just say that Chewy needs a change of pace. But first, onto the fishing report.

Like our goofy grinned friend up the street says, fishing right now, is as good as you are. Crowds, weeds, high sun and ohh yeah picky fish. Still seeing a good trico spinner fall in the morning providing some good targets and the hopper bite throughout the day has been picking up. Try a More-or-Less Hopper or a Chubby in the riffles and seams with a split case or cray dropper.

Limited options right now if you’re looking at getting off the MO onto some freestone or small water. Hoot-Owl restrictions on lots of Western District and a handful of Central waterways. Check out the complete list HERE but just be ready for more to be added on as we push into the latter part of summer. Even with a lot of big name rivers feeling the sting, still loads of options if you’re looking into something different. Our buddies at Lakestream Fly Shop in Whitefish have been posting some good reports from the Flathead & Swan as well as a handful of guides reporting good action on the Yellowstone. If you’re looking for something a little more local, you’ll have to work for it, but the options are still out there. Alpine lakes, and the higher reaches of rivers not being affected as much by low flows and high temps are a good place to start looking.
As for me, I’ll be loading up a cooler and hitting the high country in search of cooler temps, less crowded water and a total lack of political discourse. Not to mention the backcountry brookies and cutthroat. Jason will be manning the shop for the next few days while I claim refugee status in the greater Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. Bourbon, Beer & Bear Spray, a solid recipe for a weekend if you ask me. If you don’t see me in a few days, don’t worry about it, something tells me I won’t be missing much.

~Cheers, Chewy.

By Zach King|2016-10-25T16:15:33-06:00August 1st, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report, Montana Fly Fishing, Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: fly fishing, Missouri River, Montana, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Across the Road Report 6/11/16. (Hey its the same forwards as backwards!)

Been a while since my last O.T.R Report, been like that for a reason. Shop is kicking into high gear and honestly, I just haven’t had enough time to really get on the road to report back to everybody. However, I have been spending a good amount of time Across the Road. Pretty easy to grab the 4 weight, handful of flies for the evening hatch and a spare cold beer, cross the road and see what I can get into. Low effort, big rewards; after a long day in the shop, I’ll take it. Just to clarify, despite what you may have seen, heard or participated in, the Little Prickly Pear is closed to fishing from Labor Day to the third Saturday in May, for a reason. It’s one of the most popular spawning grounds for Rainbows and Browns alike. We’re lucky enough to have this little gem flow past the front door just a few steps away and it makes a great alternative to the MO if you’re looking it mix it up a little bit after a day floating.

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By Zach King|2016-10-25T16:15:34-06:00June 12th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report, Montana Fly Fishing, Shop Life, Uncategorized|1 Comment

On The Road Report: Secret Spots.

April has faded into May, which will give way to June in a few weeks and before we know it, Tamaracks in the high country will go gold. I don’t want to think that far ahead just yet though, so lets talk about the time in between. Specifically the latter part of spring and summer. As runoff subsides and the swollen banks fade to friendlier wading levels, loads of us ditch the boats for packs, 4 wts, bear spray & back roads. How do I know this? Because I do it (obviously) and because I, along with every other shop dog around, get asked on a pretty regular basis to divulge, my spots. If you just rolled your eyes, thinking this is going to be a post telling everyone off and to find your own damn water, well you’re sort of right, but hear me out. Especially if you’re reading this shortly after it is published, there’s a good chance you inspired it.

Inevitably the calls start coming in from guys planning summer excursions to the Missouri and surrounding areas looking for that, ya know, off the radar, next level shi….(whatever that is). If you’re one of those people, you know I am a master of ambiguity, to an infuriating level to some, at points. Most think I just do it out of spite or selfishness, but I promise that is not my motivation. Okay, it’s a little bit of me being selfish, but it serves a purpose. I’m apprehensive to share a handful of spots for just as many reasons. First and foremost, many places I consider to be even remotely secret are in fact no secret at all, lets just get that out of the way. Some of them were shown to me by close friends, usually under the pretense of silence on my part; and just as many were the end result of a few hours shooting between Google Maps and Montana Cadastral then putting rubber on road.

The main reason I hold back revealing some of the spots I frequent is I’d like to think I’m fostering some sense, minuscule as it may be, of exploration in someone who would rather just have the answer given to them. Ideological of me? Yeah, but I can’t understand why people want to be told where to find the most beautiful trout stream they’ve seen, instead of stumbling across it themselves. With that said, if you call or swing by the shop and you’ve been looking into River X and wondering if I knew anything about it, I won’t lie. It’s not covered in rattlesnakes, bears aren’t around every corner and the rancher won’t chase you off with a shotgun if he see’s you fishing through his property. Though I will tell you if that’s the case, because places like that do exist. But I promise I won’t draw you a map either. I’m not trying to hoard these spots for the simple fact that the spots I try to keep quiet are in fact, not my spots. They’re all of our spots, I just happen to believe you should take the time to find them.

~Cheers, Chewy.

By Zach King|2016-10-25T16:15:35-06:00May 10th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report, Montana Fly Fishing, Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: fly fishing, Montana|0 Comments

Mark Your Calendars: Bugs & Suds Tying Night with Vince Wilcox.

If you’ve fished the Missouri in the last 4 or so years you’ve probably heard of a little mayfly nymph named Wilcox’s Little Green Machine. If you haven’t heard of it, I don’t know what to tell you except you should probably reconsider your choice of fly shop. The LGM is pretty much a must have for your box and is now a standard, go-to Missouri River fly once the smaller techy bugs start getting some attention. The man behind the Green Machine, Vince Wilcox will be joining us all the way from his home in the Adirondack Mountains of New York for a relaxed evening of fly tying and food during his yearly pilgrimage to Western trout waters. The grill will be cranking out burgers and dogs and we’ll supply some beverages to go along. Bring your tying vice, materials, tools and pull up a chair along side on the most creative tiers of our time. The fun begins on May 5th at 6 p.m. at the shop with a ~~sit down, question and answer period~~ fish stories and other lies, probably. In all seriousness folks, this is not an instructional course, all skill levels are welcome to attend and share techniques, tips and just enjoy some, what I would imagine to be, decent company and good beer at the least.

~Cheers, Chewy.

By Zach King|2016-10-25T16:15:36-06:00April 20th, 2016|Categories: Montana Fly Fishing, Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: fly tying, Montana, montana fly shops, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Missouri River Fishing Report: A Day In The Life Of Edition. 11.23.15

November Shop Life Insights from Chewy

Been a pretty quiet week up on the Missouri. Seems like lots of you kids been getting scared off the water by the good ole’ reliable winter winds. I really don’t blame you. Wind is one thing, cold temps and freezing precipitation are another. The combination of the three can be unbearable. Fishing has been good however; if you’re one of the lucky ones to find a window of tolerable temps and fishable winds. It’s the time of year most of us start looking forward to spring fishing again, making plans for next year, refilling fly boxes, patching waders and staving off cabin fever at any cost. Not to mention soup, lots of soup. When I’m not at the shop I get into a pretty loosely regulated routine. Of course it varies day to day but only slightly. I’m a creature of habit, weather dependent albeit.

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By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:44-06:00November 23rd, 2015|Categories: Fishing Report, Shop Life|0 Comments

Why Wolf Creek? 10 Reasons you should make Wolf Creek your Missouri River fly fishing destination

10. Location, Location, Location

Wolf Creek is located just 3 miles from the Wolf Creek Bridge and 4.5 miles from Holter Dam. Chances are if you are traveling by car to fish the Missouri from much of Western, Southwestern and Central Montana and beyond you will be passing through Wolf Creek before you reach the river. Whether you are coming from Helena, Missoula, Kalispell, Billings, Bozeman, Butte or a host of other cities Wolf Creek is your first access to the Missouri River. Since Holter Dam to Craig is the most popular section of the river to float/fish it only makes sense to exit at Wolf Creek, buy your flies and arrange your shuttles at Wolf Creek Angler and proceed to your adventure on the MO. We will shuttle your rig to Craig or wherever you choose to float and you will have saved yourself all kinds of time and substantial mileage. If you choose to bypass Wolf Creek and start your day in Craig you have already added eight miles to your trip. Not the end of the world but by the time you travel eight miles back to Holter Dam or Wolf Creek Bridge you’ve added roughly 15-20 miles to your trip and shaved 30 minutes to an hour off of your fishing time. If you come out once a week to fish you are looking at 60-80 extra miles and a loss of several hours of fishing time over the course of the month. If you fish every month of the year it could be costing you up to several hundred dollars (depending on gas prices) and up to two days of lost fishing time over the course of a year! That’s a steep price to pay and we would love to help you save your time and money.

9. Food, Gas and Lodging

Looking to have access to amenities during your trip to the Missouri any time of the year? Wolf Creek is your destination. With two bar/restaurants and the ONLY gas station/convenience store and the ONLY US Post Office between Helena and Cascade, Wolf Creek is your first choice. Need lodging? Wolf Creek Angler has you covered with affordable lodging options year round. We’ve got units with full kitchens and full baths which sleep up to four comfortably and during the warmer months we’ve got no-frills motel rooms for under $70/night. We are dog friendly, we offer guide discounts and all of our units are clean and comfortable and right next door to a first-rate Missouri River fly shop.

8. A River Runs Through It

Much of Norman Maclean’s novel A River Runs Through It takes place in and around Wolf Creek. Wolf Creek is mentioned in the story many times – other Missouri River fishing destinations are not.

7. Little Prickly Pear/Wolf Creek Canyon

Postcard view of Little Prickly Pear Canyon

Our awe-inspiring canyon goes by both names. Whatever you choose to call it it’s an amazing place. Please keep your eyes on the road as you wind your way through the canyon along Little Prickly Pear Creek. More than a billion years ago,during the Precambrian Era, an ancient inland seaway deposited these shales and sands, which over time,became these vibrant red and green mudstones called“Spokane Shale”. Many of our guests enjoy relaxing times on the porch gazing at the rugged hillside across from the shop where we often see mule deer and big horn sheep and the occasional black bear.

6. The Oasis

Located within walking distance of Wolf Creek Angler, The Oasis offers dining during the season and is a great place to unwind anytime of the year with a game of pool or just watching the game and relaxing in the bar.

5. Welcome to Wolf Creek MT

Wolf Creek is made up of an eclectic mix of residents, some with deep Montana roots spanning generations, others who’ve arrived here from anywhere and elsewhere and have fallen in love with all that Wolf Creek has to offer. It might get a little weird around Wolf Creek sometimes but that’s part of what we love about it. Come discover for yourself the charm of Wolf Creek MT.

4. Wolf Creek Bridge

To call the Wolf Creek Bridge iconic is an understatement. Everyone who has fished the Missouri knows the bridge. It is probably our most photographed local landmark and images of our bridge often appear on the blogs and facebook pages of local fly shops and outfitters. We love our bridge so much we made it a part of our logo and while we love to see pictures of our bridge on social media, Wolf Creek Angler is the only shop with a rightful claim to the Wolf Creek Bridge.

3. Shotgun Annie’s

A Wolf Creek institution, Shotgun Annie’s (formerly The Frenchman and Me) is the only year-round restaurant between Helena and Cascade. It is a classic small town Montana saloon and is a favorite amongst our guests. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner and Shotgun Annie’s. They serve up great steaks, ribs, burgers and more.

2. Montana Microbrews at The Canyon Store

Rivaling the Montana-Made beer selection of large grocery stores in the bigger cities, The Canyon Store has fully embraced the Montana Microbrew craze. Check out their great selections from Lewis and Clark, Bitterroot Brewing, Bayern, Mighty Mo, Bozone and more.

1. Wolf Creek Angler

On the move and at your service since April of 2014, we are here for the long haul and fully intend to do our part to put Wolf Creek back on the map as a Missouri River fly fishing destination. We are your full service Missouri River fly shop offering lodging, guided fly fishing, drift boat and equipment rentals, shuttle service and a first-rate shop with an ever-growing inventory of everything you need for success on the Missouri River including the largest selection of Missouri River flies ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

This season make Wolf Creek your Missouri River fly fishing destination!

By Jason Orzechowski|2019-01-16T18:31:03-07:00February 19th, 2015|Categories: Local Buzz, Montana Fly Fishing, Shop Life|Tags: A River Runs Through It, Craig MT, fly fishing, Holter Dam, Missouri River, Montana, montana fly shops, running line, The Canyon Store, The Frenchman and Me, The Oasis, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|5 Comments

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