brown trout Archives - Page 7 of 10

Weekend Update

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Things continue to be a little tough out there but don’t despair. There are plenty of reasons you should be fishing the Missouri right now.

These are just a few of them.

1. HOOT OWL RESTRICTIONS

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Water levels continue to drop on many rivers around the state. Low flows mean high water temps, especially during hot weather. High water temps mean stressed trout. The Hoot Owl closure list continues to grow with a couple of rivers (Jefferson and parts of the Big Hole) now completely closed to fishing. Meanwhile on the Missouri we’re enjoying relatively stable flows in the 4100 cfs range and comfortable water temps in the low to mid 60’s. Rumor has it we’re going to see a drop in flows here as well but we don’t expect anything too drastic. Should we drop into that 3500 range you can expect more weeds but for the time being we’re liking the conditions on the river, especially by August standards. If Hoot Owl conditions have chased you off of your favorite water it’s time to hit the MO’.

2. LIGHT TRAFFIC

August is traditionally a slow month on the Missouri and while we appreciate the break after an extremely busy several months, six days in and we’re rested and ready to ramp up again! We typically see a big drop in traffic during August and early September despite the fact the fishing can be good. It can also be challenging but if it wasn’t a challenge what fun would it be? Regardless, for whatever reason, there aren’t a lot of people around in August so it’s the perfect time to come fish the Missouri if it’s relative solitude you seek. It’s not quite December solitude but you can usually find yourself a stretch of water void of other anglers. No waiting at the ramps, less competition on the water, immediate seating at Izaaks and plenty of vacancies in the area are all good reasons to try August fishing on the Missouri.

3. GRASSHOPPERS AND ANTS

Although not known as a great terrestrial fishery the Missouri gives up plenty of big browns to hoppers and ants strategically drifted and occasionally twitched through the right spots. Banks, seams, riffles…..you know the spots. Do a long float covering as much water as you can and be patient. Hopper fishing is rarely action-packed but there are occasional good days and frequent good parts of mediocre days so it’s definitely worth your while to give it a try. Not sure where to go? Stop by the shop and we’ll get you set up with the right bugs and give you some direction on where to go. If you really want to get your hopper game dialed in book a trip with us and we’ll have one of our expert guides take you to the ultra secret hopper hot zones. We’re happy to send you to these spots on your own but nobody knows the water better than those who are out there every day. If you are new to the Missouri or new to fly fishing or both we can’t stress enough how critical a guide trip can be to your future success or lack thereof. You’ll learn more in a day on the water with one of our guides than you could in a whole season of trying it on your own.

4. FLYSHOP EMPLOYEES ARE CRAVING HUMAN CONTACT

While it’s not quite that bad there are definitely some lonely spells in shop these days. The upside to this though is that we’ve got plenty of time to do things like cleaning the shop, grounds keeping….etc so the shop is really clean and the lawn is making a comeback after a bit of neglect since we’ve had plenty of time to dedicate to a sprinkling program. We’re busy working on fall fill in orders and starting to put together pre-season orders for 2017 and also doing a fair amount of lodging and guide trip boo

kings for fall and for next season. There are always things to do around the shop but our favorite thing to do in the shop is help customers so it would make our day if you came by.

5. DOG DAYS OF SUMMER LODGING SPECIAL

Now through the end of August book a guide trip and two nights lodging with Wolf Creek Angler and we’ll throw in a third night of lodging for free. That’s up to a $129 value. It’s a great opportunity to do a second guided day on the MO’ or to rent one of our RO or Adipose Drift Boats and try it on your own after which you can relax at WCA for another night for free.

See you soon at WCA.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:33-06:00August 6th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report, Montana Fly Fishing, Uncategorized|Tags: brown trout, Dog Days, fly fishing, grasshoppers, Missouri River, RO Drift Boats, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|1 Comment

On The Road Report: Well, Sort of Edition.

I know I promised everybody another installment of OTR but I failed. I failed and I’m sorry. It’s just between getting the shop ship shape for Spring, a phone that doesn’t seem to stop ringing, moving myself into the summer cabin, crappy weather and two couch surfing trout bums over the past few days I just couldn’t manage. It’s really just the combination of the latter two, I blame the hippies and wind. Either way, I was able to make it out with two good buddies of mine Will from Bozeman who just needed an excuse to get off the Gallatin and Bill, guide at large getting in some spring fishing before the season really kicks off . So it’s sort of an On The Road Report, for those two guys at least. Between the three of us we did two pretty similar floats, Mid-Cannon to Pelican and Mid to Mtn. Palace, with two very similar results. Not sure they were the ones any of us expected, but whatever, that’s fishing.

First float was with Will from Mid to Pelican. Looking back on the weather report from that morning and the overall length of the float, it was ambitious. Roughly 11 miles with wind and rain moving in later that afternoon. In hindsight we should have taken out at Prewett Creek. Wind was haneous, to the point that I considered dawning my p.f.d. after one particular gust of wind. Despite the hostile weather later in the day we managed to pull in a few on nymphs and got some great chases and hook ups on streamers. B.W.Os were out for a while before the rain rolled in, but we had a pretty short window to fish to risers podded up in the soft water.

Second trip was with Bill from Mid to Mtn. Palace. Lessons learned from the day before we stuck to the shorter float. Lots of wind throughout the canyon but the skies were clear this time. Didn’t see as many baetis as the previous day, likely because of the bluebird conditions. Still saw a few coming to to surface on clusters of midges. I was able to pull a few decent bows’ to the boat on nymphs but Bill stole the show with a pair of back to back Browns on the streamer. Kid hasn’t been in town 24 hours and hangs 40″+ of buttery Missouri River goodness. Probably had a lot to do with the fly though, hand tied by your truly, articulated with just the right amount of flash.

Like I said before, two similar floats with two similar outcomes, and not what we were expecting. Over the course of the two days between the three of us, we got more chases, hits and hookups from big streamers off hard banks and in deep trenches. Coincidence? Maybe, but my thought is that the bigger fish lower in the system are HUNGRY! I’m talking HANGRY, charging out of the depths with a vengeance and just crushing the fly. What I’m getting at is that in might be worth your while to dedicate a day to throwing some big junk and trophy hunting. Ditch the bobber for float or ten and you may surprise yourself. If you do decide to play the streamer game, here’s five for your box I think will drum up some beefcakes. Okay and some dries and nymphs too…

Streamers: Circus Peanut, Sex Dungeon, Cat Toy, Articulated Sparkle Minnow & ZK’s Mercenary.

Nymphs: Tung. Split Case BWO, LGM, Psycho May, BWO Wondernymph & Rainbow Czechs.

Dries: Q’s Cluster Midge, WCA Trude, Prachute Adams, Buzzballs & Sprout Baetis.

~Cheers, Chewy.

By Zach King|2016-10-25T16:15:37-06:00April 8th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report, Montana Fly Fishing, Uncategorized|Tags: baetis, brown trout, fly fishing, Montana, spring fishing, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

State of the Missouri

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4500 trout per mile, an abundance of 18″ rainbows and 17″ browns, well below average flows and plenty of opinions via the 2015 Creel Survey.

The annual State of the Missouri program was presented last Thursday night at Montana Wild Education Center in Helena by FWP Fisheries Biologist Jason Mullen.

This is always a great program and definitely worth your while if you get a chance to check it out. There was a wealth of information presented not only about the Missouri but about the Smith, the Sun and Belt Creek as well. Following are some of the highlights we know are of interest to you.

Fish Per Mile

This always seems to be the most popular topic of the presentation and while we’ve become accustomed to the numbers over the past few years the amount of trout in the Missouri River is truly mind-boggling. The numbers have been on the decline for the past couple of years following the 2012 peak of >8,000 fish >10″ per mile in the Craig section which is to be expected.

2015 saw Rainbow populations still well above the 3300 average at 4,073 per mile while Brown Trout came in slightly under the 572 average at 433. That’s still over 4,500 trout over 10″ per mile! Like I said…..Mind Boggling!

Screenshot (33) While the numbers of fish are amazing it’s the average size of the fish that surprise a lot of first time visitors to the Missouri and keeps them coming back. More than 900 18″ Rainbows and close to 100 17″ Brown Trout per mile….this is the Missouri River!

Screenshot (34) Screenshot (35) The river section from Holter Dam to Craig is by far the most popular stretch but take a look at what’s going on in the Cascade stretch. We’re looking at above average trout populations and while there are certainly more fish up high we’re still talking about over 2300 trout per mile in the Cascade stretch. There is no reason you shouldn’t be fishing the lower river!

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Screenshot (37) Screenshot (38) The fish population statistics are interesting and exciting but equally as important, if not more so, is the flow data. 2015 was not a great water year for us with average flows well below average. The Missouri certainly fared better than many other rivers in the state which saw Hoot Owl Closures for much of the season but we would definitely like to see more water this season.

Screenshot (39) Screenshot (40) Screenshot (42) Many of you may have been interviewed last season by FWP while you were out fishing the MO’ as part of the Creel Survey which began in March of last year and just wrapped up. The data are still being processed but the preliminary results are in. A few points of interest – 43% of those surveyed were non-resident anglers on par with 44% in the last creel survey in 2002. Of the resident anglers 24% were from Cascade County, 13% from Lewis and Clark and 20 % from elsewhere in Montana.

22% of those surveyed were being guided compared to just 11% in 2002. Interestingly, preliminary results show that those surveyed believe that 45% of those fishing the river are being guided. Anglers were generally satisfied with the average numbers of fish being caught and overwhelmingly satisfied with the average size of the fish being caught.

The survey also indicated that while many feel the river usage is too high the consensus is that crowding is not a problem. Also of interest is that those surveyed strongly oppose limiting use by both non-residents and guides and outfitters.

Once again, in summary, plenty of big fish, less water than we would like and interesting preliminaries from the creel survey.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:38-06:00February 27th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: brown trout, Holter Dam, Missouri River Winter Fishing, running line, State of the Missouri, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Hungry Browns are on the move. photo by Wolf Creek Angler

It’s not just the weather that’s been heating up this week. With temps in the 60’s and the water temp on the move upwards of 36 degrees the fishing, specifically streamer fishing, has really started to come on.

Nymphing has been good with fish starting to move into the more transitional water which is just a little bit faster and perhaps a little bit shallower than what we’ve been concentrating on for the past couple of months. Pink continues to rule, typically paired with some kind of firebead but tailwater sows and soft hackle sows are definitely coming into their own with zebra midges also getting some love.

Don’t switch things up too much – it’s still basically winter water you want to target using winter nymphs but it’s also time to start throwing some different bugs into the mix. Mayfly nymphs and the aforementioned sow bugs and zebra midges should definitely be part of your arsenal as the water warms up a touch and the fish start to move.

The streamer fishing has definitely been getting better and while we haven’t had any days where it was absolutely lights out, we’re definitely getting enough action to continue to devote some time to the swing/strip. I spent a couple of hours on Monday throwing the Olive/Copper Polar Leech and boated a nice brown just a few casts in followed by a few tugs and a few chases over the next couple of miles. Again, certainly not lights out – but definitely enough action to keep me interested.

Polar Leech in Brown or Olive/Copper, Kreelex in various flavors, assorted Clouser style bugs and black leech patterns have all been getting noticed. Don’t be afraid to experiment, maybe even try two bugs at a time. A slow but steady strip was getting it done for me but many have been getting them on the swing as well.

We’ve been targeting that same transitional water with the streamers but also working the super slow stuff and moving some fish. I’ve also heard of a few people picking them up in some faster water but you still want to work those bugs slowly. River flows are holding right around 3700 and the water temp will hit 36 today and may gain another degree or two this week with highs near 60 and lows in the 40’s for the next several days.

The word is definitely out and there has been an increase in traffic this week though there is still plenty of solitude to be had. We opened some additional lodging today to keep up with the demand so if you’re thinking of coming out we should be able to accommodate you. $99 gets you a comfy room with a full kitchen which is critical if you happen to be here on Tuesday or Wednesday when the kitchen at The Oasis is closed. They are serving breakfast, lunch and dinner Thursday – Monday but the other two days you’re on your own. Bring food and put that kitchen to good use and feel free to use our barbecue grills as well if you so desire.

How about a $400 Missouri River Guide Trip? There are a bunch of unemployed guides wandering around right now who would like nothing better than to spend the day showing you what an awesome winter fishery the Missouri River can be. Whether you want to fish dries or streamers or nymphs, there’s a little something for everyone right now.

Make Wolf Creek Angler your first stop on your way to the river for bugs, boats, shuttles and much more. We are your Missouri River Winter Fly Fishing Headquarters.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:39-06:00February 10th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: brown trout, fly fishing, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

The lure of the Yellowstone – photo by Wolf Creek Angler

Fall Brown on the Yellowstone – photo by Wolf Creek Angler

Finally seeing the fall weather we’ve been hoping for these last few days as we close out October and prepare for what could be a very productive November on the Missouri .

Plenty of cloud cover, cooler temps and some precipitation in the forecast. Definitely BWO weather and the Streamer crowd is mobilized and ready for things to heat up out there.

We ventured to the Yellowstone on Thursday with high hopes of epic streamer action and while we had near perfect weather conditions it was a less-than epic day of streamer fishing. We got a fair amount of chases and did manage to boat several nice browns but nothing in the hog class. Regardless, there’s nothing quite like a fall day on the Stone and it’s always a good time hanging around Livingston for a night.

Meanwhile back on the MO it sounds like we had a couple of solid days out there. The winds have returned today and it’s likely going to be breezy all weekend with WSW winds sustained around 20 and gusting over 30. A chance of rain all weekend and perhaps some snow rolling in on Monday.

If you just can’t resist the thought of some windy, rainy days on the river we’ve got a couple of vacancies tonight and tomorrow. Off-Season rates start on Sunday and we’ve got vacancies a plenty from here on out so when the weather settles and you’re ready to hit the water and have miles of river virtually to yourself give us a call and book a room for $99/night + tax. Hordes of unemployed guides wandering around aimlessly as well so come on out and put them to work. We’re expecting a good November…possibly everything October didn’t turn out to be. There could be some great dry-fly and streamer days ahead and the nymphing will be just fine as we settle into winter fishing mode on the Missouri.

Look no further than Wolf Creek when making your plans for late fall/winter fishing on the Missouri River. A first-rate, full-service fly shop with great lodging accommodations, two bar/restaurants, the only gas station/convenience store between Helena and Cascade and all within minutes of Holter Dam and Wolf Creek Bridge. There’s NOBODY closer! We hope you make Wolf Creek and WCA your off-season Missouri River Fly Fishing destination.

The shop will close at 4 today for the WCA Staff Appreciation Party.

See you bright and early at 7 AM tomorrow morning.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:45-06:00October 30th, 2015|Categories: Uncategorized|Tags: brown trout, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, running line, Streamer Fishing, winter, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, Yellowstone River|0 Comments

Grandfather’s Flies – Hand Tied in PA some 50 years ago and ready for action on the MO – photo by Jim Murray

Guest Blog from WCA Guide Jim Murray

It’s not always big brown trout. Or days spent catching fish after fish. While those moments and memories are great, sometimes it’s the little things that grab us the most, and remind us how lucky we are that we get to spend our days and lives on the water. I had the chance to fish with Andrew and Aaron this week, and it was a day that I won’t soon forget. Andrew was in Montana for the first time, visiting his son Aaron, who is in the Air Force and stationed in Great Falls. Being from Florida, he had never seen Montana, wild rivers, grizzly bears, elk, or caught a fish on a fly rod. Being in Montana for the first time, he decided to check a few items off his bucket list and “Experience the Montana Experience”.
I met Andrew and Aaron at the shop in the morning and as we planned our day, he mentioned, that while he had never held a fly rod, his grandfather used to be an accomplished fly fisher and fly tyer back in Pennsylvania after World War II. In fact, his father had just given him a box of flies that his grandfather had tied back in either the 1950’s or early 1960’s. He showed me the box of flies and asked if there was any way that the flies would work on the river that day, and if he could fish with them. As I looked through the box, I was impressed at the well tied flies. Catskill type dry flies. Classic wet flies. It was like looking at a fly fishing time capsule. I said that I would be happy to tie on one of his grandfather’s flies, but first, let’s learn how to cast a fly rod. And maybe catch a fish or two with some of our more modern techniques.
We had a fun day, floating the Missouri on a beautiful day and getting both Andrew and Aaron into numerous nice rainbows and one really nice brown.

Aaron with a fine Missouri River brown

The day and the “Montana Experience” was complete. Except for one thing. The box of 60 year old flies in Andrew’s backpack. As we approached the Untouchables Bridge, I knew our float was nearing the end, and I asked Andrew if he still wanted to throw one of his grandfather’s flies. He replied that even if it meant not catching another trout, he wanted to throw one of his flies for the rest of trip. Done deal. I rigged up a dry fly rod, picked out a likely looking fly that might fool a fish for the many pseudos that were hatching, and had Andrew cast the fly along a nice flat, that had a few rising fish.

Andrew couldn’t believe he was fishing one of his grandfather’s flies, and He, Aaron and I watched as the fly drifted drag free through the flat. Boom. Fish on. A small rainbow attacked the fly, and I’m pretty sure you could have heard the three of us screaming with excitement throughout the Canyon. We landed the rainbow and the moment was complete. While the rainbow would be hard pressed to pass 6 inches, it was the biggest, most special fish of the day. By Far.

A very special fish for Andrew – photo by Jim Murray

Andrew had shown up at the shop that morning, having never held a fly rod, and ended the day catching a trout in Montana on flies his grandfather had tied in Pennsylvania 50 or 60 years ago. It was a special moment and a special day. I felt lucky to be a part of it. As soon as we got off the river, Andrew texted his father, relaying the story. His father replied that he had goose bumps. Me too, Andrew.

Thanks for a great day. I was proud to be a part of it!

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:46-06:00October 2nd, 2015|Categories: Uncategorized|Tags: brown trout, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Missouri River, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Fall in Wolf Creek Montana

Some good days, some great days, some not so good days this past week as fall fishing continues to ramp up on the Missouri.

Nymphing is still the go-to for numbers but there’s enough happening on top between Trico hold overs, Pseudos, terrestrials, the occasional caddis and the promise of baetis to keep the DFO’s interested. Sub surface options remain somewhat status quo with black Zebras leading the charge followed by Grey LGM’s, Red 2 Bits, Micromays, Psychomays, Purple Weight Flies, Hot Belly and standard PT’s, Grey WD-40’s, Purple Lightning Bugs, BWO Magic Flies and a host of other baetis-themed bugs.

Streamers? Not on fire by any means but definitely worth your time. Stop by the shop and check out our ever-expanding streamer selection which is definitely starting to get noticed. We love the streamer game and we understand the addiction. Get your fix at WCA. Demo a St Croix Bank Robber designed by streamer legend Kelly Galloup. You might just get hooked!

The leaves aren’t the only colors of fall. The brown trout are colored up in spawning splendor this time of year and we’ve been catching some great ones this week.

It’s nice to have the shop abuzz with activity again in the mornings as we get the trips out the door each day and get you set up with everything you need for your day on the water.

Afternoons have been spent meeting with reps and looking at new products as we put together our plans for next season and work on getting those pre-season orders written. Can it really be that time again already

We’re really excited to see all the new products being offered for next season and as always we’re working hard to bring you the products you want from the brands you love as we continue to try to earn your business and become your Missouri River fly shop and guide service of choice. Expect big things from Wolf Creek Angler and rest assured that we will always be doing everything we can to meet your expectations.

Lodging vacancies have been hard to come by for the past couple of weeks and will continue to be a challenge as we head into October. Things start to open up towards the end of October but if the fishing is half as good as we anticipate in the weeks to come we will remain fairly full right on into November. Don’t hesitate to book your mid to late October lodging and guide trips – they’re going quickly!

Speaking of late fall – remember we’re open all year so keep us in mind when you are making your late fall/winter fishing plans. Once things start to shut down in Craig later in the fall Wolf Creek becomes the place to be with lodging, dining, gas, groceries and of course the best fly shop ever to call Wolf Creek Montana home. Look no further than Wolf Creek Angler for your late season Missouri River fly fishing needs. We’ve got everything you need and we’re closer to Holter Dam and Wolf Creek Bridge than anyone.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:46-06:00September 26th, 2015|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: brown trout, Craig MT, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, nymphs, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, zebra midges|0 Comments

Summer Fading Fast

As we enter the last full week of August the shorter days and cooler nights have us eagerly anticipating fall and the second season on the Missouri. Summer is winding down, the kids are going back to school this week and while it still feels like summer out there the chilly mornings we’ve had as of late are a welcome sign of things to come. The breather that comes with the August Lull has been nice but we’re ready to get back to the business of making your Missouri River fly fishing experience all that it can be.

The fishing has been decent most days with the nymphers having the most success but if you commit to the terrestrials you should get at least a fish or two to move and their have been some absolute piggy browns being caught on hoppers, chubbies and ants so don’t give up!

Summer and smoke will return this week with highs in the 90’s each day.

Don’t miss our Labor Day Sale September 5th and 6th. Great deals on almost everything in the shop including Simms Solarflex WCA logo wear and KAST summer Guide Wear. We’ve got plenty of lodging available for the big Labor Day weekend so why not make Wolf Creek and the Missouri River your Labor Day Getaway this year. Browns and Brews Beer Fest happening in Craig on Saturday, September 5th from 4 to 8 PM with live music and plenty of great Montana Made Beer from Bozeman Brewing Company, Bowser Brewing Company, Katabatic Brewing Company, The Front Brewing Co. and Mighty Mo Brewing Company. This brewfest will have live and silent auctions, to raise money for the betterment or improvement of Craig. Don’t miss you chance to bid on some great auction items including Wolf Creek Angler gear and a guide trip/lodging package.

Enjoy late summer on the Missouri and make WCA your one stop before you hit the river for shuttles, guide trips, lodging, Montana Maid Coffee, fishing licenses, ice, Fishpond Nomad nets, Yeti Ramblers, Colsters and Hoppers, Rio and Trout Hunter leaders and tippet, Sun Protection from Buff, Simms and Outdoor Research, friendly honest info and advice, and of course, the largest selection of Missouri River flies ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:47-06:00August 24th, 2015|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: brown trout, Browns and Brews, Craig MT, Labor Day Sale, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, Yeti|0 Comments

Cray Days on the MO

Guest Blog from WCA Guide Jim Murray

We’ve officially reached the Dog Days of summer. Few fisherman, fewer boats and A LOT of smoke signal that the middle of August has arrived. While it has been smoky the last few days, it hasn’t stopped a few of us from getting out on the river and having some fun. The few of us who have been on the river this week have been rewarded with some pretty good fishing. In the last week, I’ve fished the entire river from the Dam to Cascade, and it is all fishing well.

Hoppers, chubby, ants, leaches, pheasant tails, caddis nymphs, and the good old Cray Daddy have all produced. In addition to catching a large number of healthy rainbows, it seems the Big Browns have come out to play. A large number of piggy browns have been brought to the net recently, both on nymphs and dries. Big Browns = happy anglers.

Big fish, a lot of them, and few to no other anglers on the river…what are you waiting for? While we all wish the fires will subside and the smoke will clear, it is a good time to be fishing the Missouri, and it only figures to improve as August turns to September and we receive some relief from the heat. Grab your box of big flies and terrestrials, your six weight rod, and hit the river. Or better yet, book a guide trip and leave all the work to us! Either way, if you like the river to yourself, and the chance to catch a big brown, it’s time to get on the Missouri.

The fish are feasting on Crayfish until they puke! photo by Jim Murray

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:47-06:00August 22nd, 2015|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: brown trout, Claws R Cray, Crayfish, Jim Murray, Missouri River, running line, Snapping Cray, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Wildfires and Brown Trout

Things remain pretty quiet around Wolf Creek and Craig as we move into the second half of August. Traffic is light but there are definitely fish being caught out there.

If you follow this blog you might think we’ve stopped fishing though nothing could be further from the truth! We’ve posted travel blogs and bear blogs over the past few days and the wildfires are definitely the topic of conversation right now with Governor Bullock declaring a fire emergency in Montana over the weekend. There are currently over 100 active wildfires around the state burning some 47,000 acres and some of these are hitting home affecting waters we love to fish with the Sucker Creek fire affecting the Landers Fork and Copper Creek and the Scotty Brown fire which is now contained closing River Junction Road limiting Blackfoot access.

So what about the fishing?

The fishing report has been somewhat static as of late but it’s definitely worth your time to get out there and fish the Missouri. Nymphing has been decent, especially at the dam and there have been a bunch of big brown trout being caught on terrestrials primarily in the lower stretches but there’s no reason you shouldn’t try the hopper rigs wherever you happen to be fishing.

Good nymph choices have been black zebra midges, red Two-Bit Hookers, Tung Darts and Peep Shows with various Cray Fish and Leech patterns getting some attention as well. On top run your choice of hoppers and ants. We’ve been having good luck with tan Moorish hoppers, Pink or Purple More-or-Less hoppers and tan Whitecloud Hoppers trailed with black parachute ants.

These are some of the beauties our guides and clients and shop customers have been picking up over the last couple of weeks.

Stop by Wolf Creek Angler on your way to the river for all of your Missouri River fly fishing needs including Fishpond Nomad hand nets and boat nets, Yeti Hoppers, Hydro Flask growlers and pint glasses, tippet and leaders from Rio and Trout Hunter, loads of cool Simms WCA logo wear, shuttles, lodging, some of the hardest working guides on the river and of course, the largest selection of Missouri River flies ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana and we’re just minutes from Holter Dam, nobody is closer. Shop open daily at 6 am – Montana Maid Coffee freshly brewed every morning.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:47-06:00August 17th, 2015|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: brown trout, Fishpond, Holter Dam, Missouri River, running line, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

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