green machine Archives - Page 6 of 9

June Delivers

Missouri River Awesomeness Underway

2018 has proven to be a new experience for me in the world of Missouri River Fly Fishing.

Higher than average flows have presented challenges we’ve not had to deal with thus far at Wolf Creek Angler. Not really fishing challenges mind you but shop challenges which require a bit more creativity and finesse and faith.

The high water fishing challenges are easy. Longer rigs and more split shot make the world go round. That doesn’t do much for the Dry Fly crowd but they’ll get theirs soon enough. The flows will come down and the dry fly fishing will happen but it’s the promise of the future that really has us stoked following the scouring we’ve gotten this spring. Flushing Flows for sure!

Unfortunately shop challenges are not as easily met. We’ve muddled through however and it feels like the worst is behind us. Sure we’re still getting plenty of calls about the flows and we’re still having to have the unpleasant discussions pertaining to cancellations but as of yesterday it’s all starting to feel better. Pair this with the return of a full house of lodging and some very busy mornings in the shop and everything seems right with the world again.

Granted we may see some precipitation which could slow the drop in flows but yesterday’s notice from the Bureau of Reclamation that the peak inflow into Canyon Ferry Reservoir from the snowmelt runoff has occurred in the Upper Missouri Basin was sweet music to our ears. Yesterday’s 1000 CFS drop will be followed by another 1000 by tomorrow afternoon. It’s doubtful they’ll continue with such drastic decreases but it’s definitely on the drop and we will keep you posted on what we’re hearing is coming.

The fog of high water trauma has lifted. I can’t help but think that we’ll be renting out drift boats again soon (15,000 cfs) and look for the Project Healing Waters boat to be available before long as well (12,000 cfs).

As you would expect, the big drops tend to have a temporary adverse effect on the fishing which has been widely reported as off the charts as of late but which slowed a bit yesterday.

Obviously nymphing is going to continue to be the game for the time being but that dry fly light at the end of the tunnel you see…that’s PMD’s coming soon! Accordingly you should start adding PMD nymphs to your arsenal. We like the PMD Magic Fly, Split Case, Crack Back, PMD Wondernymphs, Doc’s PMD, Superflash PMD’s and PMD S & M’s (amongst many more). Worms and sows are still the staple and will be for the near future but we would definitely recommend getting some mayfly nymphs in the mix. Green Machines, Psychomays and PT’s could be the ticket.

As the flows recede you could do worse things than throw a streamer. Heavy sink is the key for the time being. Get it down fast and give it some life. The target zones will begin to expand and if you hit it on the right day (preferably overcast) you may just stumble into some excellent streamer fishing over these next couple of weeks. Olives, whites, naturals, black…..try the ones you like and see what happens.

Rooms and guides will be a little harder to come by from here on out but there’s been enough shuffling of the schedule that you’ve still got a good shot at both so give us a call today to book your Missouri River fly fishing trip of a lifetime.

Stop by the shop on your way to the river for everything you need for your day on the water. Shuttles, ice, licenses, sun protection, wading gear, rods, reels, rain gear, tools and accessories, lines, leaders and tippet a plenty, tons of split shot and of course the largest selection of bugs ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

We hope you stop in no matter where your are fishing but if you’re starting at Holter Dam or Wolf Creek Bridge you’d be foolish to go anywhere else. We are closer to these launch sights than any other shop. Come discover the best Missouri River Fly Shop you never knew was here.

By Jason Orzechowski|2018-06-05T19:20:59-06:00June 5th, 2018|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Holter Dam, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|1 Comment

May Day on the MO’

Welcome to May on the Missouri.

It’s one of our favorite months to fish the MO’ and this year is no exception.

Snow is melting and rivers are swollen and dirty leaving the Missouri River one of very few Montana fly fishing options available in the state right now. Lucky for you it just so happens that your only fishing option is a one of the premier trout fisheries on the planet!

We’re currently looking at some big water which happens to be on the dirty side as well below Little Prickly Pear and the Dearborn. The flows (currently 10,900 cfs) are not a problem. The stain we could do without but we’ll make the best of it as we wait for LPP and the Dearborn to clear.

Don’t curse the mud, embrace it and use it to your advantage. The Double Dirt Snake in the mud is never a bad call and there’s no better time to fish large water pushing streamers. Work the mud line and work the banks. There are plenty of hungry fish willing to grab a fly…you just need to find them.

That being said the consensus from the last few days is that overall the fishing has been on the tough side. Fluctuations in flows and the influx of muddy water tend to make things challenging. We’ve had plenty of both as of late but those who are putting their time in and adjusting to the conditions seem to be enjoying moderate success.

We will continue to see increases in flows this week which will keep things challenging but with another warm up on the way for the remainder of the week we’re expecting a busy river right on through the weekend. Expect to have some company out there.

Traffic is definitely a thing right now with wade fishing all but eliminated from the equation but it’s not so bad…there’s plenty of river for everyone. River etiquette should always be observed but it becomes even more important during times like these when we’re seeing high concentrations of traffic.

If you want to avoid being stuck in the middle of it try starting early (or late for that matter). Most are getting on the water between 9 am and 10 am so if you’re on by 8 you keep moving you should have plenty of water to your yourself all day long. The other option is to wait until 11 or so and roll in behind the crowds.

The hottest selling nymphs this week have been Firebead Steelies, Caviar Scuds, Tailwater Sows, Rainbow Czechs, Little Green Machines, Fishfinder Worms, Bubble Yum Scuds, Pill Poppers and Pink Amexes.

Fish are eating dry flies regularly but it’s tough to make a day out of it. There are bazillions of midges and plenty of BWO’s as well. I haven’t seen much going on with the midges lately (as far as fish eating them) but we’ve had good luck with the Para Adams/BWO trailer rigs.

Best Dry fly bets… Brooks Sprout Baetis, BWO Flash Cripples, Quigley’s Film Critic BWO, Nyman’s DOA Cripple Baetis, Wilcox’s Micromay BWO, WCA Trudes and don’t forget the potential for March Browns if you’re fishing low. The big, muddy is not ideal for dry fly action but we’re anticipating plenty of dry fly love once things start to clear.

Streamer Fishing has been a little tough but if you ask me it’s ALWAYS worth your while. The higher flows have forced us to expand our target areas but there is plenty of good streamer water out there. Even some of the old stand-by streamer banks which have been become less desirable in these flows are still worth your time, but just like you’re doing with the longer nymph rigs, you’re going to have to change your approach in many of these areas.

While you may be used to throwing at the bank and stripping all the way to the boat in some of these places the bigger flows have, in many cases, taken a bunch of that water out of play. That soft water on the bank will still hold fish but now that’s the only thing you’re fishing. Once you’ve stripped through that couple of feet of water directly off the bank then you should pick it up and throw it to the next spot because once your line and your streamer catch the current you’re wasting your time.

That being said, I did have a fish attack my sparkle minnow in the middle of a Mega Boil the other day so you just never know.

We’ve been throwing 280 grains or more and will continue to do so for the duration of the higher flows. Get it down and move it with plenty of pauses in between strips. Takes have been aggressive and with the water warming into the mid 40’s you can expect more of the same.

Best bugs have been the aforementioned Sparkle Minnow Sculpin, Olive Dungeons, ZK’s MK Ultras, Montana Minnows, Rainbow Clousers, Dirty Hippies, Circus Peanuts etc. If you like it and you believe in it then throw it…you’ll be amazed what a difference having confidence in your fly will make.

Whether or not streamers are your game do yourself a favor and spend a day (or at least a few hours) giving it a try. If you hit it right you’ll never be the same! Better yet, do yourself an even bigger favor and book yourself a streamer trip with WCA. Take the guesswork out of where to go and what to throw. Leave that up to us and cast away to your heart’s content.

Don’t let the flows deter you. It’s going to be an awesome spring on the Missouri and we’d like nothing better than to assist you in any way we can.

By Jason Orzechowski|2018-05-01T21:10:21-06:00May 1st, 2018|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: dry fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Old School High Water. Holter Dam circa 1928 – photo Helena as She Was

The Missouri has become a VERY busy place this week with displaced anglers, guides and outfitters arriving in droves.

There has been plenty of discussion recently about how high flows will end up going this season on the MO’, but the fact is it’s about the only game in town at this point so if you had plans to fish in Montana in the near future chances are you’re going to end up here.

We’re still not comfortable making predictions so we’ll leave that up to the experts but what we do know is that we’re currently sitting at around 120 – 180% of normal Snow Water Equivalent in western Montana. There’s plenty of snow in them there hills though it sounds like we’ll begin to see a reduction in snowpack as we get our first real heat wave of the season at the end of this week. It won’t be quite so warm in the high country but down here they’re calling for 80 degrees on Friday and Saturday. Things will return to more seasonable conditions on Sunday and early next week as we return to daytime highs in the 50’s.

The current flow on the Missouri below Holter Dam is 9670 CFS. The flows have increased steadily over the past week as Canyon Ferry prepares for the imminent spike in inflows coming soon with runoff. How much water will we see? Again, we’ll leave the predictions to the experts but what we can tell you is that you have nothing to fear at these flows.

We wouldn’t necessarily recommend wade fishing at this point but you’ll be fine in a boat and there are plenty of fish being caught our there, primarily on nymphs and streamers, but we’ve heard of some successful dry fly outings as well. Look for these trends to continue as that water continues to warm.

It’s time to break out the split shot, the long leaders and the wire worms. Things have been consistently inconsistent out there due in large part to the frequent changes in flows but your best bet for the time being is definitely going to be deep nymphing.

I’d recommend starting out with something in the 7 – 8′ overall length. Go with a firebead wire worm or something on the large (#10 or #12) side with a tungsten bead (Amex/Weight Fly/Rainbow Czech) paired with a Tailwater sow, Pill Popper, Caviar Scud or something BWO ish like a Grey Little Green Machine, a dark Peep Show or a Psycho May. Add a bb or two and start probing your way through the likely runs. Which runs are the likely ones? The fish are going to be in many of the runs you’ve historically found them in but daisy chains of guide boats are a pretty good indicator of where the fish are.

Go deeper than you normally would and make sure you’re occasionally touching the floor. Start tighter to the bank than you’d normally be, fishing inside out and work your way out. Row arounds can be a challenge in these flows but not always. There are plenty of spots where the extra water actually creates easy row arounds where before there were none.

Bug selection has been a challenge with a bunch of different patterns catching fish here and there and nothing really lighting them up. You’ll want to make frequent changes until you find what works but make sure you’ve got the depth thing figured out before you start changing your bugs. Stop by the shop on your way to the water and we’ll tell you what we know whether you buy bugs from us or not. We’re always here to help you find success on the water. Whether that’s guiding you or just giving you honest information about where to go or what to use you can always count on Wolf Creek Angler for open, honest and up to date Missouri River intel.

Streamer fishing has been decent but you’ve got to choose your spots. Many of the go to banks are just too fast right now making it virtually impossible to get down where you need to be. That being said, if you know what you’re looking for there’s an abundance of great streamer water to be fished and these bigger flows often give up some monster browns seeking a soft water respite. Swing by WCA for the best streamer selection on the Missouri including a bunch of bugs you wont’ find anywhere else.

Like the streamer fishing, the dry fly fishing is somewhat limited right now for the same reason…too much water but once again, if you know where to look you could be in for some phenomenal dry fly fishing over the next couple of weeks as the water warms and the BWO’s flourish. Think quiet water…that’s where you’ll find the sippers.

Once again, if you’re planning to fish in Montana over the next month or so then you should plan on fishing the Missouri. As you might expect we are very busy with lodging and guide trips but we definitely have openings and we’d like nothing better than to get you booked and on the water. We’re full this weekend but things open up on Sunday and we do have availability next week.

Keep in mind you’ve only got a few days left to take advantage of the best deal on the Missouri. Two nights of premium lodging and a full day guide trip for just $550 (plus tax). We invite you to look for a better deal…you won’t find one.

Regular season rates resume on Tuesday, May 1st.

We hope to see you soon at Wolf Creek Angler. We are your Full Service Missouri River Fly Fishing Destination.

By Jason Orzechowski|2018-04-25T17:29:16-06:00April 25th, 2018|Categories: Fishing Report, Uncategorized|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Holter Dam, Missouri River, Missouri River Spring Special Guide Rates, Montana, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Welcome to October on the MO’. It’s gonna be a good one!

Three days in and October is giving us just what we want and just what we need for a spectacular fall season on the Missouri.

Rain, snow and a north wind made for challenging weather conditions out there yesterday as we caught the edge of the second winter storm of the young season but judging by the reports, those who braved the elements were rewarded with great fishing and we’re just getting started!

Several inches of snow accumulated here yesterday and it sounds like we may see a bit more this morning before things return to more seasonal conditions tomorrow. We’ll see lows in the 20’s tonight but back near 50 tomorrow and in the 60’s by Friday. Sunshine returns tomorrow so today may be the better day to fish but use caution if you decide to come out. The roads are fine by January standards but on the sketchy side by early October standards as drivers re-acclimate to slushy, slippery road conditions.

Thursday looks awesome with a chance of rain and snow showers and highs near 50 and then it looks like a good mix of fall weather. Expect sunshine, expect clouds, expect rain and wind and snow, expect 70 degrees, expect 20 degrees and everything in between. It’s autumn on the MO’ and we’re loving it!

Dry fly fans are continuing to get their pseudo fix but there are whispers of big bug action happening NOW. These rumors have yet to be confirmed…today might just be the day. With any luck it’s time to ditch those #20’s and #22’s and make the switch. Stop by the shop and restock your BWO boxes to get ahead of the game. We like the Brooks Sprout Baetis, Wilcox Micromay BWO, Para Adams (Dark Olive or otherwise), No Hackle BWO’s, Black Fan Wing Baetis (great for low light conditions), BWO Flash Cripples, CDC Baetis Emergers, Nyman’s DOA Cripple and Quigley’s BWO Film Critic just to name a few.

Nymphing is as it should be and will continue to be your go-to if you’re into the numbers game. A lot of different bugs catching fish right now including Missouri River fall staples like Little Green Machines, Tailwater Sows, Pscycho Mays, Peep Shows, Lightning Bugs, Ray Charles, Rainbow Warriors, Zebra Midges, Rainbow Czechs, Military Mays and S & M’s. Pill Poppers, Soft Hackle Sows and Cotton Candy sows are coming on and it won’t be long before the firebeads come into serious play. Wire Worms and Zirdles are still on the menu as well. It’s a virtual smorgasbord out there right now so get creative and show them something they haven’t seen.

We talk a lot about fall dry fly fishing on the Missouri and with good reason but perhaps the best kept secret on the MO’ is fall streamer fishing which has turned on over these past few days and will continue to thrill from here on out, given the right day and the right conditions. The conventional wisdom holds true with the darker days yielding more consistent action but don’t overlook the sunny days. The fish are bulking up for the months ahead and have a hard time passing up a big meal so if you commit odds are you’ll move some fish regardless of the weather but then again you may not…it’s all part of the streamer game.

Judging by the multitude of empty or nearly empty spots in our streamer bin the word is out. Wolf Creek Angler is your Missouri River Streamer Headquarters and we rarely shy away from commitment to the game no matter the water or the time of year. We’ve got some much sought after patterns you won’t find in any other shop thanks to Chewy who you’ll likely find at the vise for the rest of the season, doing his best to keep up with the ever increasing demand. Sparkle Minnows, Circus Peanuts, Dirty Hippies, ZK’s Inflated Ego, MK Ultra, Colonel Kurtz, Polar leeches, JJ’s, Mini Dungeons, Stun Guns and many more. Whites/Greys, blacks, olives, naturals all getting noticed.

Come check out our abundantly adequate fall bug selection as well as new cold weather gear from Simms and great deals to be had during our fall rod sale.

Lodging is pretty well booked up through the middle of the month but we do get the occasional cancellation and we do have some random openings so give us a shout if you want to come out and get in on what could be the best fall we’ve had in years. Guides available anytime for the Missouri and Blackfoot and change underway on the dining scene with the confirmed opening day for Shotgun Annie’s being this Friday, October 6th! We can’t wait! It’s going to be an awesome second season on the Missouri.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-12-07T16:04:07-07:00October 3rd, 2017|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, running line, Shotgun Annies Eatery and Tavern, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Moody Missouri Sky – Craig Montana. photo by Wolf Creek Angler

It was a little tougher out there yesterday than it’s been. Still good but we definitely had to work for them. The Tailwater Sow still won the day but I ended up doing a fair amount of bug and rig changes throughout the day. Rainbow Czechs, Tan UV Czechs and Bubble Yums were all ignored for the most part while the grey LGM, purple lightning bug, tailwater sow, grey soft hackle sow and purple Hi-Def baetis all caught fish.

A few bigger bugs on the water and a few fish in the places you would expect to find them but definitely far from a dry-fly extravaganza.

Traffic? Non existent!

You know what I love about November (and the rest of the late fall and winter) on the MO’? I love miles of empty water as far as the eye can see and being able to fish every place I want to fish, and more often than not being the first one through. Of course it’s not always this way but if you can have this experience on a 50 some degree gorgeous day in early November then you can bet the more seasonable (colder) weather will usually yield the same results.

You know what I like least about this time of year? Paradoxically its miles of empty water and the drop in traffic that ushers in the lean times for Missouri River fly shops. One in the same! It’s a fun time to fly fish the Missouri but on the shop side we’re ready for spring!

Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty to do in the shop right now. We’re busy counting flies, checking in winter product booking trips and lodging for next year, winterizing lodging units, forecasting and planning for next season….we’re plenty busy. What we miss is seeing and chatting with all of you every day.

Keep your eye on the forecast and keep us in mind for a late fall/early winter getaway. At $99/night for a cozy cabin or bungalow just minutes from the river you can’t afford to pass up this opportunity.

Remember the winter months are when the town of Wolf Creek shines with the only services available between Helena and Cascade. Need fuel, food, groceries, a post office? Wolf Creek is where you’ll find them all in addition to affordable lodging and the fastest growing fly shop on the MO’ Wolf Creek Angler.

We are your Missouri River fly fishing one stop shop with more on-site lodging than anyone; the hardest working guides on the river; vehicle shuttles; RO and Adipose Drift Boat Rentals; cold weather gear from SIMMS, KAST and Redington; packs, bags and accessories from Fishpond and Simms; LOOP rods and reels; lines, leaders and tippet from Rio, ARC and Trout Hunter and of course, the largest and best selection of flies ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-11-03T15:59:48-06:00November 3rd, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report, Uncategorized|Tags: Fishpond, fly fishing, green machine, Kast Gear, Loop, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, Redington, RIO, RO Drift Boats, running line, simms, Tailwater Sow, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|1 Comment

This Week on the MO’

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We’re definitely looking at cooler temps this week and we’re actually starting to hear some good fishing reports from our guides and even from a few of our guests who are out there getting it done on their own.

It seems the short leash has been the key to success though there have been some strong hopper outings as well. Try both on and see what happens.

We’re partial to the hopper/dropper rig because we LOVE to see them eat the hopper. Sometimes they crush it, sometimes it just disappears. Be on the alert. You typically aren’t going to get a ton of eats on the hopper so you need to make it count. It really sucks when you miss the take, you might not get another shot all day! Drop a mayfly nymph off of your pink or purple Moorish Hopper to increase your odds or we also like to run two on top and trail an ant. The trout like ants, sometimes more than hoppers!

Nymphs we would suggest include Split Case PMD’s, pheasant tails, Little Green Machines, S & M’s, Military Mays and weight flies in purple. If you’re going to run a two nymph rig we recommend Palsa pinch-on indicators and we also like the Lil’ Nuggets from Strike Foundry. Keep your rig under three feet, sans split shot and find your water.

We’ve been doing well in the fast water, medium depth. Same nymphs as above in addition to various crayfish and rubber leg patterns. Don’t overlook the worm either. A worm and a cray could be a deadly combination. If you aren’t comfortable with the weightlessness of the rig then make one of your nymphs something with a tungsten bead….it’s plenty of weight for what you’re trying to do.

Not much to report on the trico front. Still seeing bugs and occasionally fish on them but we’re not counting on it. Similar story with the caddis in the evening. There are bugs around and it’s never a bad idea to try your elk hair caddis or outrigger caddis/emerger rig during last light. Find the fish, show them a good presentation and see what the fish gods have to say about it.

Lodging has started to fill again after a quiet week but we still have plenty of availability for lodging and guides. Don’t forget our Dog Days of Summer Special if your thinking of coming out to give it a go. Book a guide day and two nights lodging and we’ll throw in a third night of lodging for free. Why not take advantage of the light traffic and book yourself an August getaway on the Missouri?

Days are getting noticeably shorter so we’re back to opening at 6:30 AM. It’s pretty dark (and getting darker every day) at 6 AM though I’ve still seen a few folks doing the early launch. If you’re wanting to be on the water prior to 6:30 don’t hesitate to come by. We’re generally in here at or just after 6 firing up the machine so feel free to stop. The coffee may not be quite ready but by the time you get that shuttle form filled out and load up on bugs we’ll have you out the door with a cup to go.

Come check out our ever-expanding bug selection, new arrivals in the reel case from Nautilus and great lines from ARC Fishing. We’re loving these fly lines this summer…you will too.

See you soon in the shop and on the water.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:33-06:00August 9th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report, Uncategorized|Tags: ARC Fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Strike Foundry, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Weekend Outlook

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We heard a bunch of good dry fly reports from yesterday, most having found success in the canyon and below. Along with midges and the waning BWO’s PMD’s and Caddis are on the menu, not a ton of either but enough to keep you fairly occupied. Reports yesterday were that Parachute Adams, Trudes and CDC Caddis Emergers all drew some attention.

We just received a big part of our summer bug shipment so our bins are fully loaded with all kinds of cool PMD and Caddis patterns, both dry flies and nymphs. We’re also re-stocked on Green Machines and S & M’s amongst others. You can expect to find all the hot bugs you are looking for at Wolf Creek Angler along with a bunch of other patterns you won’t believe you’ve been missing out on. We’re fully stocked for the MO’ and beyond with plenty of freestone stuff as well and more foam then you’ll find anywhere!

We’re fighting some gusty winds today. Tomorrow will be better and the weekend looks like it could be perfect with temps in the mid to high 80’s and light and variable winds in the forecast. It might be a great weekend to come out and do the dry fly thing on the Missouri before things really get busy out there which looks like next week. We’ve got our busiest couple of weeks on the water thus far starting next week and I can only assume the story is the same with the other shops and outfitters so come out and enjoy the relative solitude on the MO’ now and expect a lot of traffic (and plenty of fish) in the weeks to come.

PMD’s are what’s on the menu. Stop by Wolf Creek Angler for the widest selection of Missouri River flies ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

There haven’t been many PMD’s around as of yet so we haven’t really started fishing these patterns but it’s definitely time to dig out your PMD box and organize, inventory, re-stock and expand your selection. Some of our favorites are Nyman’s DOA Cripple, Flash Cripple, Powell’s Helen Keller PMD, Almost Dun, Knock Down Dun, No Hackle PMD, Captive Dun, PMD Drowned Spinner, Eric’s Rusty Spinner, CDC Rusty Spinner and various Hi Vis PMD and Rusty Spinners. My go-to PMD nymphs are the PMD Magic Fly, Split Case PMD, S & M PMD, Light Peep Show, Doc’s PMD, Doc’s Summer Bug, Psycho May PMD, Trina’s PMD Angel Case Emerger and the good old Gold LB.

On the caddis side we like Sloan’s Outrigger trailed with a cdc emerger or Cornfed Caddis. Try a purple or gold Weight Fly or a Tung Dart if you’re in search of a good caddis pupae nymph and don’t forget the buzzballs as they represent pieces and parts of pretty much any hatch you might be fishing.

It seems as though we’ve had our peak flows, at least for the time being. Expect flows to continue to drop as the runoff flows into Canyon Ferry dwindle. We’re stoked to have a hot sunny weekend on tap but we’re holding out hope for cooler temps and plenty of precip throughout June. Fingers crossed! LPP and the Dearborn are on the drop and are in great shape right now if small water happens to be your game.

We’ve got the calm before the storm happening now with a quiet weekend before guide trips and lodging kick into high gear on Monday. Plenty of availability for both for the next three days if a spur-of-the moment trip to the MO’ is in the cards for you. Book a room and a guide trip or grab one of our RO or Adipose Drift Boats and explore the river on your own. Just coming for the day? Stop by the shop for everything you need. Shuttles, sun protection, Smith Optics, LOOP rods and reels, Obscene Clearance Prices on winter gear from KAST and Outdoor Research and the best bug selection around.

See you this weekend at Wolf Creek Angler!

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:34-06:00June 2nd, 2016|Categories: Uncategorized|Tags: caddis, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Socked In

True to the forecast from a few days back we’ve been stuck in the clouds/rain/snow for most of the week and while we’re happy to have the precipitation I for one am anxious to see and feel the sun shine again.

Per our predictions there has been some decent dry-fly action out there but still primarily towards the end of the day. A little perplexing but the challenge is what keeps us coming back. I haven’t been out this week but I’ve heard plenty of reports of MASSIVE BWO hatches with no fish up during the day. Those putting in the time and the miles are finding willing fish but you should definitely plan on working for them. Go to dries this week have been Wieses Purple Phase Loop Wing, BWO Drown Spinners, Olive Parachute Adams, Rocky Mountain Mints, Nyman’s DOA Cripple Baetis, CDC Baetis Emergers and BWO Hackle Stackers on the baetis side while Bucky’s Midge Cluster, Griffiths Gnats and Buzzballs are good bets for midge imitations.

A bit of a mixed bag as far as nymphing reports go but overall it seems to be getting good out there.

We’ve heard a few lackluster reports but the word from the last couple of days has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s been wet and chilly but we’re seeing plenty of smiling faces regardless. It’s amazing what a couple of tugs can do to make you forget about being cold and miserable. Rainbow Czechs, BWO Angel Case Emergers, Split Case BWO’s, LGM’s, Psycho Mays, Micro Mays, PT’s, Bubble Yum Scuds, S & M’s, Dark Peep Shows, Juans Hi Def Baetis in purple, Black Zebras, Pink or Purple Lightning Bugs, tailwater sows, soft hackle sows……and on and on. A lot of stuff is working but its changing from day-to-day and even by the hour. Giver yourself plenty of options and don’t be afraid to stray from the standards.

And speaking of standards, don’t forget to stop by the shop next Thursday from 6 pm – 9 pm and visit with Vince Wilcox creator of THE quintessential Missouri standard the Little Green Machine. We’ll be hanging out with Vince doing some lying, some tying, some grilling and just kicking back and enjoying springtime on the MO’.

Streamers? Still nothing stellar to report but once again, definitely worth your time. My intention is to spend my next day on the water devoting most if not all of the day to throwing them. We’re loaded up on the big bugs right now with all of your Missouri River standards as well as a bunch of stuff from the mind of Chewy you aren’t going to find anywhere but at WCA. Wolf Creek has never seen the likes of the bug selection you’ll find in our bins and we’re adding to it almost daily!

It looks like we’re going to transition back to sunshine and warmer weather starting Sunday. Take advantage of the cloud cover while you can – it should be a great weekend for fishing as long as you’re dressed for it. Need some cold weather gear or rain gear? We’ve got ridiculous deals on outerwear from KAST, hats and gloves from Outdoor Research and wading gear and layering from Redington and a bunch of new inventory you haven’t seen yet. Make us your first stop on your way out to the river.

Lodging is full tonight and tomorrow but really opens up Sunday and into the first part of next week. Sunshine and mid 70’s expected by the middle of the week. It’s a great time to book yourself a guide trip and a night or two with us. Traffic is still relatively light and the fishing should only get better from here on out.

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:35-06:00April 29th, 2016|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: dry fly fishing, green machine, Kast Gear, Missouri River, Redington, running line, streamers, 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

Fishing Report 8/26/15

Good fishing to be had out there right now river-wide. We’ve had some downright spectacular days up at the dam and pieced together some decent days below Craig as well. The Wolf Creek Bridge to Craig section has not been all that lately but that being said, there are plenty of fish in that section. Get out there and get them figured out!

Double Zebras, Tung Darts, Red Two Bit Hookers, Little Green Machines, Tailwater Sows, Split Case PMD’s, BWO Magic Flies and various Crayfish patterns are getting it done below the surface and the hopper/terrestrial bite has been good enough to keep things interesting if you choose to make a day of hoppers and ants. If you’re not getting eats on the terrestrials try dropping a Pine Squirrel Leech or a #16 purple or gold weight fly or the aforementioned Zebra Midge – they may change your luck.

The smoke is hanging heavy right now and will continue to do so throughout the week but the silver lining is that the smoke is blocking out the sun and keeping things from getting as hot as they could which is allowing the fire crews to make substantial progress on many of the fires burning around the area.

Hoot Owl Restrictions have begun to be lifted as we move towards cooler days. See below for the latest comprehensive list of Restrictions and Closures from FWP.

Traffic is still very light out there but it wont be this way much longer. Lodging is beginning to fill again as people begin to work fall fishing on the Missouri into their plans. Give us a call today for lodging and /or guide trips. Mid September through early November is one of our absolute favorite times to fish the Missouri. Sunny days with a chill in the air, colored up trees, colored up fish – does it get any better? Traffic will definitely pick up as we move into September but people tend to spread out more in the fall so it never seems to feel overly crowded unless you get stuck doing row-arounds at the dam.

Make Wolf Creek Angler your destination for fall fishing on the Missouri. We’ve got everything you need from top notch Missouri River Fly Fishing Guides to clean, functional and affordable lodging and a first-rate fly shop fully stocked with everything Missouri River Fly Fishing including an ever-increasing selection of bugs rivaling that of any shop in the area. Open daily at 6 AM, earlier than all the rest, for all of your Missouri River fly fishing needs and just minutes from Holter Dam and Wolf Creek Bridge – nobody is closer!

Bugs, shuttles, Rio and Trout Hunter leaders and tippet, ice, fishing licenses, sun protection, cold-weather gear, hot weather gear, Fishpond Nomad Nets, Smith sunglasses, all kinds of tools and accessories and more. Don’t see what you want? We are always more than happy to call around and see if we can find it at one of the other shops for you.

Stop by Wolf Creek Angler and see what the buzz is about.

Following is the up-to-date list of Restrictions and Closures from FWP.

Beaver Creek Full Angling Closure starting 09/01/2015
Mandatory Waterbody Closure
Beaver Creek, in Hill County, for its entire length below the outlet of Beaver Creek Reservoir. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report

Belmont Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Tributary to the Blackfoot River. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report
Big Hole River Madatory Drought Closure starting 8/19/2015.
Mandatory Drought Closure –

[24 hour] River sections of the Big Hole River: Saginaw Bridge on Skinner Meadows Road to North Fork Big Hole River. (8/18/2015)
View Water Body Report
Madatory Drought Closure starting 8/19/2015.
Mandatory Drought Closure – [24 hour] Big Hole River from the Notch Bottom FAS to the confluence with the Beaverhead River. (8/18/2015)
View Water Body Report
Copper Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Tributary to Landers Fork. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report

Cottonwood Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Tributary to the Blackfoot River. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report

Gold Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Tributary of the Blackfoot River. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report

Landers Fork Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Tributary to the Blackfoot River. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report
Monture Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Tributary to Blackfoot River. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report

Morrell Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
Tributary to Clearwater River. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report
Murphy Lake Emergency Closure on Murphy Lake
Fire Related Closure
Murphy Lake located in Lincoln County. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report

North Fork Blackfoot River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction starting 07/30/2015
Mandatory Drought Closure – 2 PM to Midnight
North Fork Falls to the confluence with the Blackfoot River. (7/29/2015)
View Water Body Report

Reopened Waterbodies
Big Hole River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 8/21/2015.
Closure Lifted
Big Hole River: Maiden Rock FAS up to the Notch Bottom FAS. (8/21/2015)
View Water Body Report
Bitterroot River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 8/19/2015.
Closure Lifted
Bitterroot River from its origin at the confluence of the East and West Forks of the Bitterroot River to its mouth. (8/19/2015)
View Water Body Report
Blackfoot River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 8/19/2015.
Closure Lifted
Blackfoot River from its headwaters to its confluence with the Clark Fork River. (8/19/2015)
View Water Body Report
Clark Fork River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 8/19/2015.
Closure Lifted
Clark Fork River from Rock Creek downstream to its confluence with the Flathead River. (8/19/2015)
View Water Body Report
Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 8/22/2015.
Closure Lifted
Clark Fork River from its headwaters downstream to Rock Creek. (8/22/2015)
View Water Body Report
East Gallatin River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 08/24/2015
Closure Lifted
Entire East Gallatin River from its origin at the confluence of Rocky and Sourdough Creeks to its confluence with the West Gallatin River. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report
Flint Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 8/22/2015.
Closure Lifted
From the Highway 1 Bridge near milepost 53 to the mouth. (8/22/2015)
View Water Body Report
Gallatin River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 08/24/2015
Closure Lifted
Lower Gallatin River from Sheds Bridge (Hwy 84) near Four Corners, MT, downstream to its confluence with the Madison River at Three Forks. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report
Jefferson River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 08/24/2015
Closure Lifted
Entire Jefferson River. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report
Madison River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 08/24/2015
Closure Lifted
Lower Madison River from Ennis Dam to the Missouri River Headwaters. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report
Ruby River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 08/24/2015
Closure Lifted
Portions of the Ruby River from Duncan District Road to its confluence with the Beaverhead River. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report
Shields River Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 08/24/2015
Closure Lifted
Most of the Shields River from its confluence with Smith Creek downstream to its confluence with the Yellowstone River. (8/24/2015)
View Water Body Report
Silver Bow Creek Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction Lifted starting 8/22/2015.
Closure Lifted
From Blacktail Creek to the mouth where it joins with Warm Springs Creek. (8/22/2015)
View Water Body Report

By Jason Orzechowski|2016-10-25T16:15:47-06:00August 26th, 2015|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Fishpond, fly fishing, Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T), green machine, Holter Dam, Missouri River, RIO, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

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