midge Archives - Page 3 of 5 - Wolf Creek Angler

Winter Holding On

As if on cue, last week’s mild temperatures which spurred us to de-winterize and open up a couple more cabins, were replaced this week with another arctic blast. We’ve seen the brunt of it though temps will dip down into the negative digits tonight with wind chill factors hovering near -10.

The warm up will be underway starting tomorrow with temps back in the 30’s and we will see 50’s by the weekend and into the first part of next week. Expect breezy conditions this weekend with the warmer air moving in with gusts of to 33 mph expected on Saturday.

We’re expecting a busy week on the MO next week. We’ve got a full house starting on Monday and I would expect we aren’t the only ones.

Despite the frigid conditions out there at the moment warm spring days aren’t far off. Spring Fever has started to take hold and the MO is your perfect spring fishing getaway.

Things are still in Winter Mode in Wolf Creek and Craig for the moment but it won’t be long before things start to open up and before you know it we’ll be back in full swing.
In the meantime you’d be smart to make Wolf Creek Angler your destination as we offer kitchenettes in all of our open lodging. And speaking of lodging, there’s just 11 days left to take advantage of our Winter Guide Trip and Lodging Special which means that spring is less than two weeks away!

The expected product floodgates didn’t exactly break open wide last week as we had anticipated. Two words….and I bet you can guess what they are….Supply Chain. So we’re not where we thought we’d be with spring product but we’ve got your essentials covered. Bugs, leader, line and tippet are fully stocked and chances are we’ve got most of what you need outside of that as well. We’re light on waders and boots at the moment but should have those items in very soon.

We’ve got plenty of cold weather gear, nets, tools and accessories, 2022 fishing licenses, 2022 Adipose Flow rental boats and much more.

The pre cold-snap fishing report was EXTREMELY encouraging with a couple more epic days of midge action, consistently good nymphing and ever improving streamer action.

There’s nothing quite like spring fishing on the MO. The action is consistently good and while there is definitely an uptick in traffic it can still be considered the calm before the storm of the busy prime season.

As we enter Season Number 9 at WCA we couldn’t be more excited for things to get underway.

We’re open at 8 AM daily though with Daylight Savings Time beginning this Sunday you’ll probably want to push your start time to allow things to warm up a bit.

Either way, we’ll be here bright and early ready to take care of all of your Missouri River fly fishing needs.

By Jason Orzechowski|2022-03-09T12:57:29-07:00March 9th, 2022|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: Adipose, Craig MT, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, running line, Streamer Fishing, winter, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|2 Comments

In Like a Lamb

Spring is in the air this first morning of March with temps nearing 60 today and just enough moisture in the air to impart that unmistakable scent of spring. A bit of rain in the forecast starting tonight and running through Thursday. We’re under a high wind warning through this afternoon but tomorrow looks like the best day of the bunch with temps in the 50’s, a chance of rain and winds out of the south at 7-10 mph. These spring-like conditions will begin to recede at the end of the week as temps drop and the chance for snow returns. Let’s hope this next round of winter happening next week delivers as we’re in desperate need of precipitation.

It looks to be a quiet week on the MO….the calm before the storm. Winter weather or not, the switch will flip next week as spring traffic begins to arrive. We’ll likely see busier weekends and mid-week traffic will come and go but March has become the unofficial start of the season so be prepared to share the water. Mind you we’re not talking about anything remotely resembling summer traffic but to those who have been enjoying the winter solitude over the last couple of months the bubble is about to burst.

March also means busy days in the shop as the majority of our spring orders are scheduled for arrival this week. We’ll be flooded with new gear and scrambling to maximize space while attempting to transition from the puppy pen to behavioral modifications to keep Zeke out of mischief. It’s going to be an interesting spring around WCA…please bear with us as we continue to work on building a well-behaved Shop Dog.

It’s also time to open more lodging which we’ll plan on doing likely following next week’s winter (ish) weather. We’ll see what the weather brings but I would expect to have all of our cabins open by the middle of the month with the motel target date right around April 1st.

Our Winter Lodging and Guide Trip Special comes to an end on March 19th so time is running out to take advantage of the best deal on the MO.

Fishing continues to be good following last week’s deep freeze. Continue to utilize the tried and true techniques and patterns of late winter/early spring and you should be in for plenty of action. If you’re nymphing think pink with a side of Sowbug or Zebra Midge. Fire beads will also be money for the next while. Firebead Rays, Firebead Czechs, Rainbow Weight Flies and Caviar Scuds all good choices at this point. Keep your major focus on the deep slow winter water but don’t completely ignore the tail outs and similar runs with a little more speed and a little less depth. Water temps are still cold at around 35 degrees but they’ll be ticking upward from here on out, signaling to the fish that the long-awaited time to move is underway.

Look for abundant midge action on the calm days, keeping that dry fly rod rigged and ready with a Hi-Vis Adams and a Griffiths gnat in #18 or #20.

The swing action continues with Polar Leeches, Balanced Leeches, Thin Mints, Kreelex, Fruit Rollups, Buggers and the like still on the menu but look for the single hand strippers to begin to take over the streamer set as water temps come up and the energy expelled/caloric intake equation starts to favor hunting and running down those high calorie meals.

It’s our FAVORITE time for streamer fishing the MO’.

The shop is open at 8 AM daily. Brand new Adipose Flow Drift Boats for rent, 2022 Fishing Licenses and anything and everything you need for your day on the water.

By Jason Orzechowski|2022-03-01T09:42:01-07:00March 1st, 2022|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: Adipose, dry fly fishing, midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, zebra midges|0 Comments

A Different Season

25 days into 2022 and I have yet to wet a line.

It’s a different season than what I’ve become accustomed to.

Puppy parenthood has altered my existence in ways I really hadn’t anticipated….and I’m not complaining. Zeke is a blessing but he’s also a bit of an albatross at this point. I realize I’m far outside the norm in being able to bring him to work with me every day and for this I’m thankful. I’m lucky to have all of this time to bond with him. Unfortunately it will be a few more weeks before he’ll be fully immunized and ready to interact with the outside world and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t counting the days.

His world is small right now. Our house and yard, my vehicle and the shop and shop property. That’s it. These are the places he can go and consequently, for the past seven weeks these are now the places to which I am limited as well.

It’s been an adjustment for sure. Adding to the fun of 2022 I got a breakthrough case of Covid last week which has shrunk my world even more, removing going to work form the equation and keeping Zeke and I cooped up in the house for days on end.

That has now run its course and it’s nice to be back in Wolf Creek this sunny day. Now I’ll be biding my time, dreaming of hot summer days (and nights) on the water while making preparations for the coming season. And very soon Zeke will be introduced to the MO. I’ve had him in the boat a few times in the garage getting him used to the confines of a drift boat but I can’t wait to actually get him out on the water.

Fishing has been good from what I’ve heard and the weather has been moderate to say the least, at least by January standards. Sure it tends to be breezy more often than not but temps are tolerable and traffic is minimal, ideal conditions for winter fishing on the MO.

It’s usually around this time of year I start thinking about winter dry fly fishing and from what I understand there have already been some decent days out there. Let’s hope it turns out to be a phenomenal midge season which, if everything goes according to plan, should be prime about the time I start getting Zeke on the water.

Lodging has been moderately busy but all in all things have been pretty quiet. We’re expecting an uptick in traffic as we close out January should the mild weather persist which it appears it’s going to. Highs in the high 30’s and low to mid 40’s expected through the weekend and into the first part of next week.

Flows are holding steady at 2900 CFS and water temps are hanging right in that 34 degree range.

If you’re starting to suffer from cabin fever I know all about it and I know a trip to the MO will cure what ails you. Nymphing, swinging, stripping and maybe even some dry fly fishing to be had if you’re lucky.

Winter rates are $99/night (plus tax) for a cozy bungalow with a full kitchen and private bath. Bungalows sleep three comfortably with two twin beds and a full size pull out couch. Treat yourself to a winter guide trip on the MO. We’ve got the best deal you’ll find anywhere….Two nights of lodging and a full day guided trip for one or two anglers for just $550 with NO CANCELLATION FEES FOR ANY REASON.

Our bins are freshly stocked with all the hottest Missouri River winter bugs and we’ve got all the cold weather gear you need as well as blow out pricing on all remaining Simms G3 waders and boots.

These next few weeks are PRIME TIME for winter fishing with an abundance of hungry trout and winter solitude. Before you know it that solitude will start to be in short supply so get it while you can.

The shop is open at 8:30 AM every day but Sunday for all of your Missouri River winter fly fishing needs.

By Jason Orzechowski|2022-01-25T10:59:46-07:00January 25th, 2022|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, running line, simms, Simms G3 Waders, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|1 Comment

Spring has FINALLY Arrived

We’re seeing an abundance of blue sky and sunshine with temperatures warming into the 70’s and near 80 by Friday. Flip Flop weather is nearly upon us.

Sure the fishing may have slowed down just a bit and BWO’s prefer grey skies and rain to blue bird days but that being said, it sure feels good out there right now.

After a couple of weeks of cold, cloudy, snowy, rainy dreary days I for one am happy to see the sun again.

The grass is finally greening (and growing) and the buds are popping and the birds are singing. NOW it feels like springtime on the Missouri!

And it’s not as though the fishing is terrible. It’s been a little tougher than it was two weeks ago but we’re still nymphing them up pretty good most days and dry fly opportunities (both midges and BWO’s) are a very real possibility each and every day. Expect to find fish eating midges any day and if you’re looking for good BWO action keep an eye on the forecast for cloud cover.

Streamer fishing has been hit or miss but has generally been pretty good on the cloudier days. Olive and white have been consistently good but we’ve also had luck on greys and tans. Sparkle Minnow for the win as always but Clousers, Skiddish Smolt, MoJo Minows, ZK’s Gladio and MK Ultralight all getting some eats as well.

Strip off the banks and also in the buckets varying your retrieve speed with short strips and long strips and plenty of pauses in between. They seem to be grabbing on the pause more often than not. Most importantly…keep at it. Persistence pays off (sometimes). Once again, clouds are better but they’ll eat under the blazing sun as well. You just need to find the right fish and the only way you’re going to do that is to stick with it. If 45 minutes without a grab or a flash bums you out then maybe stick to the bobbers.

Tailwater Sows with or without the bead, Pederson’s Sow, Pill Poppers, Czechs, Bubble Yums and Soft Hackle Sows still leading the charge but there are plenty of baetis nymphs bouncing around in the system so LGM’s, Psycho Mays, Redemptions, BWO Magic Fly, Olive Lightning Bugs etc are all good calls and you can never go wrong with a black Zebra. Medium depth (3-4’) medium fast to fast water should be your nymphing target water and they’ve been eating the streamer in that water as well.

Traffic has been moderate with the majority generally in the Holter Dam to Craig zone but don’t be afraid to spread out. If you call ahead we’re happy to tell you where the traffic is concentrated so you can plan your day accordingly. Sometimes it happens that everyone figures the dam zone will be busy so they all end up going down river which seemed to be the case on Saturday with a ton of traffic in the canyon and barely anyone fishing the dam to Craig.

We are your eyes and ears on the river and not just where fly selection is concerned. We know where the traffic is and where the fish are. Don’t be afraid to ask us. It’s what we’re here for.

Spring inventory keeps trickling in. We’ve got plenty of bugs, leaders, lines, tippet and such but we’re all struggling to keep rods and reels and waders and boots and the like in adequate supply. Call ahead if there is something specific you’re looking for and we’d be happy to let you know if we have it or where else you might be able to find it if we don’t.

Lodging is moderately busy but we’ve got plenty of rooms available for the next couple of weeks. We’re getting a good number of last minute guide trips being scheduled and this is a good time of year to do it that way. A few weeks from now a last minute guide will be hard to come by but for the time being if you’re thinking about booking a trip we’d appreciate the call and we’d be thrilled to have your business.

Enjoy the warm weather and the sunshine this week and don’t let the wind forecast get you down. It’s not terrible with sustained south southwest winds in the 6-15 mph range the next couple of days, increasing to 15-20 mph on Friday afternoon with some bigger gusts but windy warm days are so much for tolerable than windy and cold days so get out there.
Sunday looks like it could be the next good baetis day with a chance for showers and thunderstorms and a high of 58.

Hope to see you in the shop and on the water soon.

By Jason Orzechowski|2021-04-28T11:10:08-06:00April 28th, 2021|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: bubble yum, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Holter Dam, midge, Missouri River, pill popper, Psycho May, Redemption, running line, Streamer Fishing, streamers, Tailwater Sow, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, ZK's Gladio|1 Comment

Low Water, Spring Snows and BWO’s

With April’s end in sight we’re still waiting for spring to settle in, at least where the weather is concerned.

The last couple of weeks have served up a fairly steady diet of spring snow showers coupled with that dreaded north wind making for somewhat less than ideal conditions if sunny and warm spring days are your thing but for those more concerned with the fishing than the forecast April has not disappointed.

As you would expect, nymphing has been the go to for numbers but streamer fishing has been good and dry fly fishing, though lacking consistency, has been good enough to keep things interesting with midges a plenty and some substantial BWO events occurring over the past week.

Our spring special is now in the rearview and despite the lingering winter conditions we managed to book more of these trips than ever before. And while we usually book a fair amount of guide trip and one night stays this year we had multiple parties stay for over a week with multiple trips, something we’ve rarely seen in April and NEVER in March but I think 2021 is going to continue to be a year of firsts.

There have been a few nice days sprinkled in for good measure and some of those days have been approaching “busy” by spring standards, but generally speaking traffic has been light and the fishing has been solid.

River conditions are currently prime for the dry fly angler and look to remain that way all season long with flows holding in the 3700 CFS range with water temps still holding in the 42 degree range. Snow pack is rapidly diminishing and while the map still indicates 80 – 109% of average for much of the region, flow projections indicate status quo flows with no substantial increase on the horizon. Canyon Ferry remains at only 76 percent full so again, barring an extremely wet May/June it appears as though we’ll be settling in to a low water year on the Missouri.

Wade anglers love these flows as wade access increases dramatically which inevitably leads to an increase in wade angler/boat angler conflict but don’t let that get you down and don’t be a part of the problem. There’s still plenty of water for everyone and while technically those floating are required to yield to the wade anglers, it’s extremely helpful for everyone to communicate in an effort to reduce said conflict.

Yes – if you wade out to a spot and stake your claim it is technically yours but just keep in mind that those same low flows that allow you to get to that spot you normally couldn’t get to also limit the navigation options for those in boats so often times they’ll have to come closer than what you’d like simply because it’s the only way to get by you.

Things work great if boats give an extra wide berth to the wade anglers and also if the wade anglers understand that sometimes boats are going to have to come close to them in order to get by. What makes it all work seamlessly is if the person rowing the boat announces their intentions, maybe even asking the wade angler when possible, where they would prefer the boat to go.

It’s really not difficult but when conflict arises it’s generally due to a lack of communication. If everyone understands the rules of the road as dictated by the flows and treats those they encounter with respect and kindness things usually work out just fine.

Best Sellers from thy Nymph Bins – Pill Poppers, Caviar Scuds, Rainbow Czechs, Tailwater Sow Bugs, Firebead Rainbow Czech, Firebead Ray, Little Green Machine, BWO Magic Fly, Soft Hackle Sow, Zebra Midge, Bubble Yum Scud.

Essential Dry Flies – Bucky’s Midge Cluster, Black Sipper, Sprout Baetis, Grizzly Midge Cluster, Hi Vis Griffiths Gant, Olive Parachute Adams, WCA Trude, BWO Film Critic, BWO Flash Cripple, CDC Baetis Emerger, Micro May BWO.

Hot Streamers – Coffey’s Sparkle Minnow (Sculpin), Double Sparkle Minnow, ZK’s Gladio, Galloup’s Mini Dungeon, Galloup’s Silk Kitten, Craven’s Dirty Hippy, Lil’ Kim, ZK’s MK Ultralite, Craven’s Swim Coach. We’ve also been selling plenty of Thin Mints and buggers for the more traditional streamer set.

No need to start any earlier than 9, especially with the days continuing to get longer. As you’d expect Holter Dam to Craig has been the float of choice but Wolf Creek to Stick, Craig to Mid and Mid to Prewett have all been good options as well.

Things are starting to get consistently busier but we do have plenty of lodging and guide availability for the time being as well as Adipose drift boat rentals and a shop full of everything you need for success on the MO.

By Jason Orzechowski|2021-04-20T11:01:25-06:00April 20th, 2021|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Adipose, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, midge, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Spring is beginning to show itself on the MO. Photo by Wolf Creek Angler

Just a few days left to take advantage of our 2021 Spring Lodging and Guide Trip Special. It all comes to an end on Sunday April 18th and while we’ve been experiencing some winter-like conditions this week it looks like we’re in for another gorgeous weekend. Saturday looks like near perfect conditions with sunshine and 64. Sunday won’t be quite as nice with the possibility for some rain in the forecast but that could up the odds you might find some BWO’s. I’m not able to personally confirm but we have heard reports of a few bugs here and there this week.

We’ve got plenty of availability for both lodging and guides for the weekend so we hope to see you out here.

If you’re planning your own guideless adventure we’re happy to have you as well. Spring special lodging rates also come to a close on Sunday so don’t miss this opportunity to take advantage of the best lodging deal around.

It’s been a little quiet this week with the weather being what it is, but despite the fact that there’s snow on the ground this morning Wolf Creek and Craig and the MO are definitely OPEN for business.

Shotgun Annie’s has already expanded their hours and are now open every day. (Monday and Tuesday dinner only, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM and Wednesday – Sunday lunch and dinner 11:30 – 9:00 PM). We’ve also got a new place in town, The Wolf Ice Cream and Hoagies, located next door to the laundromat/Oasis. I haven’t been yet but I hear it’s good.

Izaak’s in Craig is OPEN Wednesday – Sunday 3-9 PM and The Craig Taphouse should be open soon…we can’t wait!

Suffice it to say, the fishing has been good to great most days, things in and around town are up and running and all we need is a little spring sunshine to make it feel like a bit more like the season is underway.

Flows are low and stable at around 3500 CFS with water temps holding in the 42 degree range and it doesn’t look like we’ll see much of a change any time soon with flows predicted to pretty much hold in this range all season long. A wet spring could obviously change that but we’re settling in to these flows and dialing things in accordingly.

I’ve said it repeatedly and I’ll keep beating the drum…if streamer fishing is your game this is your time. Water temps are near prime and conditions are optimal, at least for the next six weeks or so. Nymphing is the numbers game with Tailwater Sows, Caviar Scuds, Pill Poppers, Hotbead Rays and Zebra Midges still leading the charge. Little Green Machines and other baetis nymphs also now playing an increasingly important role.

Again, not much for BWO’s just yet and the midge game hit and miss but between the random Skwalas and midges and the increasing potential for BWO’s you could definitely put together a dry fly day if you worked at it.

Stop in and see all the new arrivals. From the hot new River Ops boots from Korkers to the awesome new rod and reel offerings from Waterworks Lamson, a brand new jig section in our fly bins, the amazing Tornado Anchor, new Camo Air Lock Indicators and much, much more.

Open daily at 8:00 AM for shuttles, licenses, lodging, guides and anything and everything you need for your day on the water.

By Jason Orzechowski|2021-04-14T12:38:05-06:00April 14th, 2021|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Craig Taphouse, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Izaaks, midge, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Shotgun Annie's, Streamer Fishing, The Wolf Ice Cream and Hoagies, Tornado Anchor, Waterworks Lamson, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Welcome to February on the MO

The season is rapidly approaching and will be here before you know it with the first month of 2021 already in the books.

The Groundhog says six more weeks of winter…let’s hope so. The bare ground and blue skies tell a different story this second day of February and while it appears as though we’ve got some colder temps in the forecast, winter continues to elude us.

We’ll see 50’s today and highs in the high 30’s for the remainder of the week. A chance for some rain and snow on Friday and cold Friday night with lows in the single digits and only climbing into the 20’s on Saturday. Perhaps not the best conditions for weekend fishing but it couldn’t be much better than it is right now.

We’ve got rooms and guides and rental boats available daily and the best deal on the river all winter long…$550 for a full day guide trip with the best guides on the river and not one but TWO NIGHTS of premium lodging in our cozy bungalows. Offer good through the end of March.

If you prefer to DIY winter lodging rates are $99/night (plus tax) and if you just want to make a day out of it we’re doing guide trips without the lodging for $450 for a full day for one or two anglers.

Water conditions are status quo with flows hanging around 4100 CFS and water temps back up near 35 degrees. Holter Dam to Craig continues to be the go-to but don’t hesitate to work the water below Craig. Things were getting a little slushy last down low so I’d recommend staying above mid canon.

Winter Nymphing, Swinging and stripping are all good options right now and midge activity should be ramping up this month if you’re set on dry fly fishing.

We like to mix it up on winter floats, generally switching methods according to location, with the dry fly rig always at the ready.

Status quo all winter long as far as the bugs go. Think Pink! Pill Poppers, Bubble Yums, Amex, Cotton Candy, Pederson’s Sow, Pink Lucent Bead Rays, Firebead Rays, Firebead Czechs, Soft Hackle Sows, Pink or Rainbow Weight Fly, Zebra Midge, Caviar Scud, Rainbow Czechs…you get the picture. Target those super slow winter buckets and work them thoroughly.

Best bets on the streamer front – go small (ish) and leechy….or not. Polar leeches, Fruit Roll Ups, Balanced Leeches, Thin Mints, Pine Squirrel Leeches and black buggers or if you want to size up go with Kreelex, Sparkle Minnows, Mini Dungeons, Clousers and the like. A lot of swinging going on these days with plenty of takers and moderate success on the strip as well. Keep your retrieve slow with plenty of pauses in between and be ready for the take on the pause.

Griffiths gnats and midge clusters for all of your top water action. Keep your dry fly rod rigged and ready so you’re able to target those rising fish immediately as a lot of the winter feeding tends to be somewhat sporadic.

It kind of felt like spring around here last week with multiple guests staying multiple nights and keeping us busy all week long in the shop and with a few guide trips. It’s always nice to see trucks and trailers filling the parking lot after a few lonely weeks and judging by the early bookings it’s going to be a busy season. So while we’re praying for snow and cold we’re also keeping a close eye on the long-term forecast and we’re ready to spring into action with more lodging as soon as conditions look like they’re going to be stable. We’ve been waiting for that arctic cold snap all winter long and we’re holding out hope that it’s still coming but if we don’t see it materializing sometime soon we may just go ahead and open things up so we’re ready for the inevitable rush.

Spring gear is starting to trickle in and we’re well stocked this winter with everything you need for your day on the water.

We are your Missouri River mild winter fly fishing destination with everything you need all in one place. Lodging, guides, Adipose boat rentals, Simms wading gear and accessories, cold weather gear, fishing licenses, eye wear from Smith and Suncloud, lines and leaders from Airflo and Rio (including MOW tips and versi leaders for the swing set) and of course, the largest selection of Missouri River bugs ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.
Swing in or shop online.

The shop is open Tuesday – Saturday 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM with expanded and extended hours likely coming soon. Open EVERY DAY for lodging and guide trips.

By Jason Orzechowski|2021-02-02T11:44:33-07:00February 2nd, 2021|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Adipose, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, running line, simms, spring fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Go To Winter Nymphs on the MO

Colder weather on tap this week and through the weekend, though definitely not January in Montana COLD.

Conditions remain prime to get out and enjoy some winter solitude while getting your trout fix.

Highs in the high 20’s and low 30’s are expected through the weekend with a slight chance for snow Thursday night and Friday. Expect cloudy skies and calm to moderate winds on Thursday and Friday with an abundance of sunshine expected on Saturday and Sunday.

Water conditions remain stable with flows currently holding at 4070 CFS and water temp slowly dropping, currently just shy of 34.5 degrees.

You really couldn’t ask for better conditions as we move towards late January. Classic winter water minus the snow and ice on the ramps. Enjoy it while it lasts. Winter is coming sooner or later (we hope).

Holter Dam to Craig is where you’ll want to concentrate your efforts, especially as the water temperatures drop. Dam to Wolf Creek makes a nice half day float if you want to get a later start while Wolf Creek Bridge to Craig is a good full day float. We’ve emerged from the afternoon darkness so you’ve got some extra light on the back end of the day but even so, Dam to Craig is maybe still a bit much unless you plan to just blow through it.

We are definitely in winter nymphing mode with all of the standards in play. Pink Amex, Bubble Yum Scud, Rainbow Czech, Pill Popper, Hot Bead Rainbow or Pink Weight Fly and the like paired with Tailwater Sows, Soft Hackle Sows, Caviar Scuds, Pederson’s Sow, Pink Lighting Bug, UV Yum Yums and zebra midges.

Swing Season also remains in full effect and the streamer set is taking advantage of the mild weather and extended light to stretch out those floats and cover as much water as possible.

The wind has been a factor as always but as we get into February and beyond look for dry fly opportunities to increase with midge activity increasing.

Remember WCA has the best winter lodging deal in the area at $99/night (plus tax) for a cozy bungalow complete with full kitchen and private bath. And just FYI we have gotten word from the 7R Guest Ranch that they are now serving dinner on the weekends so if not having a restaurant to go to has been keeping you away…problem solved.

And speaking of deals – we invite you to join us for our $550 guide trip and lodging winter special. A full day guide trip for one or two anglers with the best guides on the MO and TWO nights of lodging for the impossibly low rate of $550. Space is limited so book now. Offer runs through the end of March.

Winter Shop Hours remain 8 AM – 2 PM Tuesday through Saturday. Open EVERY DAY for lodging and guide trips. Stop by for bugs, cold weather gear, Adipose Drift Boat rentals and much more.

While you ponder your winter plans make it a point to call this week to book your spring and summer dates. Prime Time is filling quickly and it looks like it’s going to be a busy year on the MO.

By Jason Orzechowski|2021-01-19T12:50:15-07:00January 19th, 2021|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: 7R Guest Ranch, Craig MT, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Holter Dam, midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, running line, winter, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Spring is streamer time on the Missouri

As we emerge from the Covid-19 lockdown the timing couldn’t be better as spring fishing is just starting to hit its stride.

Bumps and drops in flows along with plenty of color coming from the Little Prickly Pear and Dearborn have made things somewhat inconsistent for the past week or so but with the creeks on the drop for the moment and the anticipation of stable flows and water temps for the next while we should be in good shape for the weeks to come.

Per the norm for this time of year the numbers (both fish and boats) have been at Holter Dam. The dam to Wolf Creek run has been the most consistent. Wolf Creek to Craig has had its moments but has been hit or miss for sure. Traffic below Craig is sparse and almost non-existent below the Dearborn save a few of those streamer guys plying the mud for prowling giants.

Nymphing is without a doubt your best bet for numbers right now with all of the usual suspects in play. Point flies of choice in my boat have been Ninch’s Pill Popper, Caviar Scud, Pink Amex, Tan UV Czech, Firebead Steelie Worm and Rainbow Weight Fly. Trail with #16 Tailwater Sow, #18 PT Green Machine, #16 UV Yum Yum Scud Pink, #18 Olive Lightning Bug, #18 Olive S & M, #18 Black Zebra, Soft Hackle Sows, #16 Pink Ray, #18 Magic Fly BWO etc.

The fish are on the move and we’re typically finding them in medium depth, fast (ish) water. Start around 5’ bobber to bb and adjust accordingly. Most of the known hot spots are producing, at least in that dam zone. Follow the traffic flow, observe adequate social distance between boats (much much more than 6’ please) and please don’t anchor up in the middle of the run. If you’re not getting into fish take a look around you and see what’s going on. If others are hooking up and you aren’t watch what they’re doing, where they’re going etc and follow their lead. And those boats with the red and white stickers – those guys generally have a pretty good idea of what’s happening and the vast majority of them are happy to help. Whether you’re having trouble cracking the code or encountering more serious (non-fishing) issues, don’t be afraid to seek help from those with the red and white tags.

Dry fly opportunities are not abundant at this point though there have been BWO’s around. It’s a right time, right place situation so keep that dry fly rod rigged and ready for action. We’ve been doing well with Sprout Baetis, Olive Para Adams or Para BWO’s trailed with your emerger or cripple or choice. Midges are abundant though finding fish eating them has been a challenge. If you find a sipper or two try feeding them a Bucky’s midge cluster or Griffiths gnat. We’ve also had good luck with Black Midges and Black Sippers….all available now at Wolf Creek Angler.

The streamer game should be good right now. It isn’t great. We’ve put a lot of time and effort into it these past two weeks and have come away disappointed more often than not. A few flashes here and there and the occasional hook up but overall not what you’d expect. We did find some success yesterday with a couple of shallow water explosions right on the bank which makes it all worthwhile but it’s important to keep your expectations in check.

I’m not saying you can’t mix streamer fishing with nymphing or dry fly fishing but you can’t crack the streamer code when you’re chasing bobbers or head hunting. Get serious. Grab your streamer boxes and leave the rest behind. Change size, color, retrieve, target water and any combo of these variables often until you crack the code and keep your expectations in check.

The fishing forecast for this week looks good. We’ll see a storm system move through the area tomorrow afternoon into Wednesday bringing cooler temps and some precipitation in the form of rain and a rain/snow mix Wednesday.The weekend looks good with partly sunny conditions and temps in the low 60’s with a slight chance of rain each day.

We’ve got plenty of lodging available and we’re also continuing our spring guide trip special as well as our lodging and guide trip special. $400 Full day guide trips through the end of the month and get a second night of lodging on us when you book two days of guided fishing and a night’s lodging. Please note, due to the 14 day mandatory quarantine for out of state visitors at this time we can only offer our services to Montana residents and those who have met the 14 day quarantine requirements if traveling here from out of state or returning to Montana from out of state travels.

While we’re definitely happy to be back at it this new normal will definitely take some getting used to for all of us. We’re wearing masks in the shop and on the boat and we are encouraging our clients to do the same.We are frequently cleaning and disinfecting in the shop and if you’re fishing with us you can expect your guide’s boat and vehicle to be clean and disinfected prior to and following your trip. We are health screening all guides and employees daily and will not allow anyone to work if they are showing any symptoms of being sick. We’re also health screening clients and we ask that you please not come if you are showing any symptoms of being sick. This goes for lodging guests, fishing clients and everyone shopping with us.

We’re doing our best to adjust and to make the best of these bizarre times in which we’re living. We encourage you to do the same and remind you that there’s no better way to escape the madness, if only for a few hours, than being on moving water with a fly rod in hand.

By Jason Orzechowski|2020-05-05T18:10:49-06:00May 5th, 2020|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: dry fly fishing, green machine, Holter Dam, midge, Missouri River, Montana, running line, streamers, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|3 Comments

Late January Update

The January Thaw continues this week.

If you’re looking for a Missouri River Winter Trout Fix this is your time!

Weekends have been busy by January standards and with temps expected to break 60 degrees on Saturday, I’d expect some company out there. That being said, as you might expect with that warm air usually comes wind and it sounds like that will indeed be the case on Saturday with a predicted southwest wind 18-22 mph, gusting to 47 mph.

Could make for tough fishing conditions but we won’t likely feel 60 degrees again for quite some time, at least let’s hope that’s the case. Snow pack is still good, it could be better. Let’s hope for some winter following this warm up.

Despite the warm air, it’s 100 percent Winter Fishing on the MO right now with water temps still hovering around 34.5 degrees and flows holding steady at around 4600 cfs. The fish are holding in the slow, deep winter runs, though some of these are producing much better than others. Go pink, go deep and make sure you’re covering the whole run. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, the fish are widely distributed in the run and are relatively easy to locate. Other times they may be in the narrowest of slots and can often times prove almost impossible to find. That or they simply aren’t eating but generally speaking, if you spend enough time picking these spots apart you should be able to get a few to eat.

We’ve gotten a lot of calls about streamer fishing this week and if you know me you know I’m going to tell you it’s ALWAYS worth trying but stick to the nymph rigs if you’re looking for numbers. Swinging the tailouts has been moderately effective as has a painfully SLOW strip with ample pauses through the slowest of the slow, lakey spots. Clouser type minnows, kreelex, buggers and polar leeches have all been effective. Not so much on the larger, flashier patterns but as always, fish the patterns you believe in. They’ll out fish any HOT fly any day. It’s amazing what a difference a little faith in your fly makes in the way you fish it. The fish notice and respond accordingly. Other times they don’t.

Midges daily accompanied by sporadic rises but the seemingly ever-present Missouri River winds are shutting this game down more often than not. Keep the dry fly rig handy just in case.

What you need to know as you plan your rapidly approaching Super Bowl weekend…

Wolf Creek Angler is your winter one-stop shop on the Missouri…no need to go anywhere else. We’ve got you covered with the best winter lodging and guide trip deals on the river and a shop FILLED with stuff you need and deals you can’t afford to pass up.

Lodging – $99 (plus tax) for a spacious bungalow with full kitchen facilities (pots/pans/dishes/utensils all included) and private bath. Two twin beds and a pull-out full size sleeper sofa sleep 3 extremely comfortably. A rollaway will accommodate a fourth but four gets a little tight.

Winter Guide Trips – Just $400 for a full day for one or two anglers. Book two days and we’ll throw in a second night of lodging for FREE! Try to find a better deal than this….you won’t!

Mid-Winter Sale

We’re in the midst of our mid-winter sale in the shop. 25% off ALL RODS AND REELS and a FREE ARC fly line with purchase of any rod and reel combo.

30% off all winter sportswear including Simms Coldweather shirts and guide flannels.

50 % Off ALL REMAINING 2019 warm weather clothing. Guide pants, guide shorts, select sun hoodies and more.

It’s late January in the fly shop and there are deals to be had!

Shop hours 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Wednesday – Saturday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Sundays. Those are the published hours but with this nice weather we’ve been in the shop every day. Full disclosure, we’ve not been able to run shuttles since Chewy broke his leg in December but we will ALWAYS make the call for you to book your shuttle with another shop so you don’t have to make another stop prior to hitting the water.

As always, we’re open for guide trips and lodging EVERY DAY.

PBTU Ice Bowl

If you’re in Helena and are looking for something to do on Saturday evening we invite you to join us for the Pat Barnes Missouri River Trout Unlimited Ice Bowl TU Membership Drive and Winter Social at 5 PM at Sleeping Giant Lanes. Pat Barnes TU will be providing the lanes and snacks for all in attendance.

Super Bowl Sunday

The shop will be open in the morning but we will likely be closing early as the festivities commence. Another NFL season soon to be in the books. Yet another struggle for my Detroit Lions. Maybe next year…in the meantime

Go Chiefs!

By Jason Orzechowski|2020-01-29T18:44:37-07:00January 29th, 2020|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Helena, Ice Bowl, midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Pat Barnes Missouri River Trout Unlimited, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

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