Streamer Fishing Archives - Wolf Creek Angler

Countdown to Christmas on the MO

Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas from all of us as Wolf Creek Angler!

Winter’s Quiet has settled in on the MO. We’re still roughly two weeks out from the Winter Solstice, that shortest of the days, after which the march towards summer sun gets underway. It’ll be here before you know it.

In the meantime all is quiet on the MO. Mild temps this week have seen a slight uptick in angling traffic but Missouri River Solitude is still in great abundance even on the busiest of December days. The mild weather trend will continue through Saturday with highs in the low 50’s though you can expect breezy conditions all weekend with sustained south southwest winds in the 20 mph range gusting to 30-40 mph. Next week looks to be more of the same with no major weather events on the horizon. We’re hoping to start seeing some precipitation in the forecast but nothing much happening at this point.

River flows are definitely on the low end currently being held at around 2800 CFS with water temps holding around 40 degrees.

Reports from the river are few and far between these days but it sounds like the nymphing game is going just fine from what we’ve heard with, you guessed it, Sow Bugs still leading the charge. Tailwater Sows, Soft Hackle Sows, Poxyback Sows, Carpet Bugs, Pill Poppers, Bubble Yums, Rainbow Czechs, Amex, UV Sows, Pederson’s Sow…all fine choices from now until spring. Double them up and don’t be afraid to throw in a Zebra Midge or Rainbow Warrior for good measure. With those water temps still in the 40’s you can expect to find fish in the transitional water, medium depth, moderately fast as well as moving into the slower winter holding water.

There have been plenty of people swinging with moderate success and we’re still in the prime season for stripping as far as I’m concerned. Thin mints, polar leeches and Kreelex on the swing. Skiddish Smolt, Sparke Minnows, Swim Coach, Lil’ Kim, Dirty Hippy, Peanut Envy and Micro Dungeons all producing for the strippers. Fish that same transitional water you’re nymphing and don’t overlook the flats. Fish are everywhere! You’d also do well to dive deep and bottom out with a moderately slow strip/pause retrieve. You never know what might be lying in the deepest of the depths.

I’m not ashamed to report that some of the inventory is on the thin side right now, as it should be in December, but fear not, streamer bins are FULL and we’ve got plenty of streamer lines running the gamut from intermediate to triple density to super heavy shovel heads and everything in between. You’d also be foolish to pass up the opportunity to treat yourself to a new streamer stick for Christmas as our fall rod and reel sale runs through the end of the year.

Boat ramps were a little sketchy early this week but 60 degrees cleared most of them as of yesterday so you should be in good shape wherever you decide to float though I wouldn’t recommend the Dearborn launch right now. Best nymphing float this time of year is Holter Dam to Craig. My go to streamer stretch is Craig to Mid with Wolf Creek to Stickney a close second.

Shop hours are kind of all over the board but you will find us here at 9 AM Tuesday – Saturday for sure and shuttles are at least a possibility on most of those days though it all depends on staff availability so please call ahead. If we’re not able to do them we’re happy to refer you to someone who can.

Remember WCA Gift Cards make great stocking stuffers and can be purchased in store, over the phone or online. It’s tough to know what your fishing friends already have or need but everyone loves gift cards which are good for EVERYTHING we sell including shuttles. We’ve also got a shop full of great gifts to fit any budget and as we close out our 10th Year Anniversary we’re giving away WCA 10 Year Koozies free with any purchase while supplies last.

These tend to be lonely days for Missouri River fly shop staff. We’d love to see you if you find yourself on the MO this holiday season.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-12-05T11:30:23-07:00December 5th, 2024|Categories: Fishing Report, Shop Life|Tags: Christmas, Holter Dam, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, pill popper, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, zebra midges|0 Comments

MOvember

Winter weather is here and all has gone quiet on the Missouri.

A few hangers on out there last weekend but a different story this week with few souls braving the elements. Empty boat ramps from Holter Dam down and not a wade angler in site. Today looks like it may have fishy potential with cloudy skies and a high of 43 with SW winds 10-15 mph but I wouldn’t expect any lines at the boat ramps.

It could be an epic streamer day today (or not). The chase has been on with swingers and strippers both reporting solid action as of late. I’d opt for a moderately lengthy float today and target everything that looks fishy and some stuff that doesn’t, paying extra attention to transitional water and making sure not to overlook the shallow flats. Status quo on the water conditions with flows holding at around 3100 CFS and water temps in the 45 degree range but soon to drop.

Swingers have been finding concentrations of fish in the obvious spots but don’t limit yourself to the handful of spots you know have produced in the past, study the water and find more just like those…they’re likely holding plenty of fish as well.

Kreelex season is underway but we’ve also had good luck with Skittish Smolts, Sparkle Minnows, Swim Coach, Dirty Hippies, Circus Peanuts, Colonel Kurtz, Polar Leeches, Thin Mints and Fruit Roll Ups. Pearl, white, brown/yellow, copper have all seen some action on the brighter days. Black, brown, natural and Olive have all been good options under cloud cover but don’t get stuck in that conventional wisdom either – throw the kitchen sink at them regardless of light conditions.

Just a reminder – we’re still running our autumn rod and reel sale with 20% off any rod or reel and 25% off and rod/reel and line combo. It might be the perfect opportunity to step up your streamer rig or to surprise your favorite fly fisher with a shiny new SAGE, ECHO, LAMSON or REDINGTON rod and/ or reel.

Each year, around this time it seems a switch is flipped and things go completely quiet on the fishing front. With Thanksgiving a week from today it feels like the focus has shifted. The weekend forecast looks cold and snowy and while it looks like we’ll be precipitation free next week, daily highs only in the 20’s and 30’s will likely keep all but the most hard core anglers away.

Our shop hours will reflect the weather next week which means we’ll be here if there’s a decent chance folks will be around but if not we more than likely won’t. We know for sure we’ll be closed on Thursday. Black Friday looks like lows in the single digits and a high of 25 so maybe not. Suffice it to say you should call ahead before you come out. Published hours are Tuesday – Saturday 9 AM – 3 PM.

Enjoy the run up to Thanksgiving, embrace the winter weather and pray for lots of desperately needed snow all winter long, call the shop and make your gift purchases from the comfort of home including the always popular Wolf Creek Angler Gift Cards and get ready for the Brawl of the Wild, kickoff is Saturday at noon.

Go Griz!

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-11-21T09:10:47-07:00November 21st, 2024|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: Brawl of the Wild, colonel kurtz, Echo, fly fishing, Missouri River, running line, skittish smolt, sparkle minnow, Streamer Fishing, Swim Coach, winter, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Autumn Wandering and Splendid Isolation on the MO

It’s hard to believe but half of November has passed meaning the holiday season is essentially upon us.

Thanksgiving is two weeks from today and after that the holiday blur commences.

We’ve yet to really see much in the way of winter weather though we did get our first snow of the season on Election Day. It didn’t last long. The weather has been about what you’d expect for this time of year with cold mornings and daily highs in the 40’s and occasional 50’s.

Dark days are now upon us at Wolf Creek Angler where we’ll be missing the sun until mid to late March and while the lack of sunshine at the shop makes it always feel like it’s time to head home for the day, conditions on the river have more days than not been idyllic by autumn standards with blue skies and plenty of sun.

Traffic is, for all intents and purposes, non-existent. Sure, there are a few folks around, a couple of boats here and there, but there is no shortage of solitude here on the MO and it’ll likely be this way for the next several months, save a busy weekend here and there.

We’ve shifted to winter hours in the shop and have closed and winterized most of our lodging though we will have our bungalows available all winter long for just $149/night plus tax (No Pets Please).

Published shop hours are 8 AM – 4 (ish) Tuesday – Saturday. Shuttles are currently hit and miss as I just don’t have anyone to help at the moment but we will offer them throughout the winter months whenever possible.

Things being what they are, the late autumn season has become one of my favorite times to wander and this year has been no different.

We’ve spent some time wandering Glacier country and I just returned from a quick jaunt to the home waters. I’ve not missed a Griz home game this season and while it’s been a little disappointing as far as the outcomes have gone, I wouldn’t miss those games for the world, win or lose. Saturdays in Missoula are definitely top of the Happy Place list for me. One more regular season game in Missoula this Saturday and then Cat/Griz Brawl of the Wild in Bozeman on the 23rd. What a great time of year if you’re a football fan.

And speaking of football….DETROIT LIONS! What else can I say? Sundays have brought much joy these past couple of seasons and it feels like it’s for real.

If you’re not spending your days watching football or chasing elk the fishing has been plenty good and should continue to be a great way to spend a day for as long as the weather holds. Tomorrow looks like it could be a great BWO day with a chance for rain and snow, cloudy skies and relatively calm winds. Saturday and Sunday look to be on the breezy side but aside from that things look pretty good with temps in the 40’s and 50’s respectively.

Status quo on flies with sow bugs continuing to overproduce. Throw in a Little Green Machine or other baetis nymph for good measure but for my money I’m running double sows. Actually, I’m only throwing streamers this time of year but if I were nymphing I’d be going double sow. Keep your dry fly rig at the ready and if you’re wading please watch those active redds.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-11-14T13:35:37-07:00November 14th, 2024|Categories: Local Buzz, Shop Life|Tags: autumn wandering, cat/griz, fly fishing, Griz, Missouri River, running line, Streamer Fishing, Tailwater Sow, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|2 Comments

Wolf Creek Angler Missouri River Election Day Update

It’s a cold and gray election day…just as it should be this first full week of November on the MO.

Snow in the forecast for today and tonight. A high of 41 with southwest winds 14 – 17 mph switching to north northwest in the afternoon and gusting to 25 mph. Snow will continue into the evening with patchy blowing snow between 8 pm and 11 pm and an overnight low of 19 degrees. Sunshine returns tomorrow with temps climbing back into the 50’s. Sounds like it could be a BWO day out there though we’re certainly not expecting much in the way of traffic based on what we’ve seen over the past week.

It’s a ghost town out there!

River flows are currently holding at a skinny 3180 CFS with water temps right around 50 degrees. Those flows are lower than we’d like to see but aside from that and those pesky autumn winds, conditions over the past few days have been ideal with plenty of cloud cover and plenty of hungry fish.

With winter on the way those rainbows are bulking up making for some good days out there, especially for those chasing bobbers. Sow bugs, sow bugs and more sow bugs perhaps with a Little Green Machine or other baetis nymph thrown in for good measure. Tungsten Tailwater Sow with a beadles sow, Pill Popper with a beadles sow, Rainbow Czech with a beadles sow…you get the idea. Faster shallows are still going to be your primary target but don’t overlook the tail outs and other holding areas.

The browns are in full, glorious, spawning colors and are amped up and just ornery enough to smash a streamer. If you are wade fishing please be mindful, especially with these low flows, of spawning redds and stay off of them!

Sparkle Minnows, Skiddish Smolt, Mojo Minnows, Thin Mints, Kreelex, Polar Leeches and Swim Coaches all getting plenty of looks depending on the day. And if there was ever a time to go big with your bugs on the MO (some would argue there is not) this would be that time as the perceived threat may trigger an aggressive attack. The better streamer action has been in the upper stretches but don’t let that deter you from hitting the middle and lower sections if conditions allow for it. You never know…

Stop by WCA for the best streamer intel and best bug selection on the MO….hands down!

There’s NO TIME like STREAMER TIME on the MO’ photo by Wolf Creek Angler

And speaking of stopping by…WINTER HOURS went into effect on November 1st. Published hours are Tuesday – Saturday 8 AM – 4 PM, CLOSED on Sundays and Mondays. Hours may fluctuate based on weather or other factors so it’s never a bad idea to call ahead to confirm we’re going to be here. Our crew is gone for the season so it’s just me which unfortunately means that if there are scheduling conflicts then the shop will be closed. We apologetically acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause but with 11 seasons under our belt we’ve learned that winter sales rarely cover winter staffing.

Along these same lines, I haven’t yet figured out how to do shuttles with no staff so while there may be days we can do them, practically speaking shuttles are done for the season.

Fortunately for you there are other options for winter shuttles on the MO.

We’ve closed and winterized the vast majority of our lodging but we will have our three bungalows open all winter at a great rate of $149/night (plus tax). Bungalows have two twin beds, a full size pull out couch, a kitchenette with cooktop, microwave, fridge and a dishwasher and big screen televisions for all of your streaming services.

Whether fishing the MO, chasing waterfowl or elk or deer hunting these rooms are a great late season option. The kitchens come in handy but we’re also thrilled that Lazy I Beerworks is currently open every day but Wednesday for lunch and dinner.

The seasonably relevant fly bins are fully stocked. We’ve got plenty of Simms waders, boots, hats, gloves, socks and layering for whatever Mother Nature throws at us as well as a few clearance sportswear items still hanging around.

WCA 10th Anniversary drinkware and T’s are on clearance as well and our Annual Fall Rod and Reel Sale runs through the end of November so a trip to WCA and the MO could be the perfect opportunity to knock out your Christmas shopping.

Adipose drift boat rentals available as long as the weather holds though the Mending Waters vet boats will be on hold for the winter beginning November 15th.

Get out and VOTE today and come see us next time you head out to fish the MO.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-11-05T09:14:40-07:00November 5th, 2024|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Adipose, brown trout, Election Day, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, running line, simms, Streamer Fishing, Tailwater Sow, vote, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Autumn Magic on the Missouri

Autumn continues to dwindle as we approach the middle of October, having yet to see any of those quintessential cool fall days on the water.

There’s definitely a chill in the air in the mornings and things cool down rapidly once the sun sinks below the horizon but in between it’s been an abundance of sunshine and summer-like temps climbing into the 70’s and higher most days.

When will we see those moody dark cold drizzly days? It doesn’t appear as though it will be anytime soon. We’re currently looking at sunny skies and 77 degrees with a fair amount of smoke hanging around. Tomorrow looks like a bit of a reprieve with highs only reaching into the mid 60’s with a very slight chance for rain but then it’s right back to blue bird weather for the weekend with sunshine and highs in the high 60’s and low 70’s.

Maybe, just maybe, we’ll get there towards the end of next week with forecasted highs in the 50’s and lows in the mid 30’s next Thursday and Friday. Let’s hope the trend sticks.

Missouri River flows currently holding at 3210 cfs with water temps at around 58 degrees. Still much too warm for those BWO’s everyone keeps asking about but that being said terrestrials and October caddis are still providing blind top water action and we are seeing consistent evening dry fly action on pseudos.

Enjoy the sunshine and worry not. Soon enough we’ll be craving the same as we weather winter’s cold darkness while anxiously awaiting spring.

Should those cooler, overcast autumn days ever arrive we should be in for some awesome fall fishing on dry flies and streamers alike.

We’ve been spending plenty of time thwarting convention and ripping streamers in the bright sun and while it’s not quite been anything you’d call epic – we’re getting plenty of fish to chase and a few to eat so definitely worth the time. The late day shadows do wonders so stay late if you can.

If you’re looking for the best streamer selection on the MO, a new streamer line or leader for any and all situations, perhaps a new streamer stick or intel on all things streamer fishing we are your Missouri River Streamer Authority.

Don’t miss the Annual Fall Rod and Reel Sale happening NOW for the best deals of the season at WCA.

As per usual, nymphing has been the best bet for numbers with sow bugs still leading the charge. Whether it’s double sows, zebra and a sow, zirdle and a sow or techy baetis nymph and a sow you get the idea. You’d do well to always have at least one sow bug in the mix. #14 and #16 Rainbow Tailwater Sow with no bead the hottest of the hot as of late.

Most of our “Hot Fly” bins are adequately stocked. Many of our summer faves are completely gone. Just where we want to be with November on the horizon. BWO dries at the ready and streamer bins overflowing with flashy goodness.

Fall gear is here and we’re wheeling and dealing a plenty with thoughts of clearing inventory prior to the impending deep freeze. Our 10th Anniversary Season is coming to a close, get your 10th anniversary gear while you still can. 30% off all 10th Anniversary drinkware and clothing until it’s gone.

We’re on fall hours now with morning darkness growing longer by the day. We’re here from 7:30 AM – 5 PM daily and still doing our best to accommodate your shuttle requests though as our staff continues to shrink we may have days we’re unable to do shuttles so please call ahead to confirm.

Lodging will remain 100 percent open through the end of October at which time we will start to winterize most of it though we will have our bungalows open and available all winter long at winter rates of $149/night starting November 1st.

Like our staff, guides are starting to disappear but we will continue to have a few around right on through November so give us a call and we’ll see if we can’t get you set up for a day of fall fishing on the MO.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-10-09T14:05:00-06:00October 9th, 2024|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Missouri River, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Not So Fast…

While we collectively bid an unofficial farewell to summer last weekend the current weather forecast says Not so Fast!

Sure, we’re ready to turn the page and settle in to fall fishing but it appears as though we’ve got some summer left on the calendar with highs in the 90’s and abundant sunshine at least through mid to late next week. Mornings will feel like fall with temps in the 50’s and it doesn’t take long for things to cool off when the sun goes down but mid-day conditions are still much more flip flops and shorts than waders and flannel.

Look for more of an actual autumn transition late next week with daytime highs in the 60’s and overnight lows in the 40’s. It’s coming!

Colors are changing. Daylight is shrinking and we’re on the cusp of what we’ve come to refer to as our second season with guide trips and lodging finally emerging from the Dog Day Slumber. Look for angling traffic to blow up starting next week, running through the first week of October when things again dwindle as winter looms.

For some reason September has become the new October as far as trips go with many opting for the safer bet of September weather over the unpredictability of the late fall season. This is by far our busiest September to date with bookings looking more like June than what we’d expect to see in the fall.

The Farmer’s Almanac is predicting a legit winter in the mountain west with well above average precipitation and well below average temps. We shall see. We’re definitely in need of a good winter after a long summer of low flows and high temps around the region.

Get out this weekend and the first part of next week to enjoy a bit of solitude and then plan on plenty of company for the rest of the month.

The current fishing report is status quo with terrestrials leading the charge for dry fly fishing followed by dwindling tricos, maddening pseudos and maybe an October Caddis or two in the mix.

Best bets for nymphing still sowbugs, zebras, Frenchies, zirdles, PT’s, Green Machines, Peep Shows and the like.

Days are shorter. Water temps are cooling. Browns are soon to be on the prowl. Streamer Season is on deck. Stock up on bugs, tune up your gear and mentally prepare to do battle with the weeds as you venture out in search of your elusive quarry. For the streamer set it truly is about to be THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!

NFL is underway tonight. Oktoberfest brews are in stores now. The archery opener is Saturday. In spite of summer heat autumn is indeed underway.

Shop hours are 7 AM – 5 PM daily.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-09-05T14:00:36-06:00September 5th, 2024|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: brown trout, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Summer is Here

Happy Summer Solstice!

Enjoy this, the longest day of the year as we turn the corner and embark, yet again, on the long descent into winter darkness.

Shorter days ahead starting tomorrow but don’t let that get you down. We are, after all, smack dab in the middle of PRIME TIME on the Missouri.

It’s been an interesting week with well below average temps and a taste of winter but it looks like we will be settling into summer weather over the next while with temps climbing back into the 80’s today and tomorrow and pushing into the mid 90’s on Sunday.

It looks like more of the same for the first part of next week with daytime highs in the high 80’s so settle in to HOT weather on the MO. We welcome the change as it’s been a cooler (and seemingly windier) than normal spring but now it’s time to make sure you’re taking steps to protect yourself from overexposure to sun.

We’re loaded up with Buffs, sun gloves, sunscreen, Straw hats, solar sombreros, sunglasses and WCA solarflex hoodies and we’re also sitting on a good selection of Simms Guide shorts and challenger flip flops. We’ve got everything you need for dealing with the summer elements on the MO.

PMD action has been consistently good and should continue with these hot, sunny days ahead. Gobs of caddis in the lower stretches and Tricos on deck.

We’re loaded up with your favorite PMD and Caddis patterns, both for top water action and sub surface endeavors. Tricos and hoppers arrived this week and we’re just getting the bins organized.

We’ve got some great new patterns for both.

The dry fly side of the bin has seen much more action as of late (which we’re thrilled to see) but there are plenty of folks nymphing as well. Hot selling bugs this week include Frenchies, Purple Weight Flies, Tailwater Sows, Split Case PMD’s, Crack Back PMD’s, Magic Flies, Nitro Caddis, PT Green Machines and Psycho Mays.

Streamer fishing is on hold for most but we are still pre-aquatic vegetation concentrations so don’t think you have to float a dry fly or chase a bobber. Low light periods are still likely to be productive. And speaking of low light…with hot days ahead it might just be time to wake a mouse under cover of darkness.

We’re open at 7 AM daily for all of your Missouri River fly fishing needs including the CHEAPEST DAM SHUTTLES ON THE MO and so much more.

We’re pretty much full in our lodging now through mid-July though we have had a few cancellations here and there so give us a call if you’re looking for a last minute booking on the MO. The same can be said for our guide calendar which is full for the most part but you never know – sometimes things open up.

Welcome to summer on the MO!

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-06-20T14:09:23-06:00June 20th, 2024|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Missouri River, Montana, running line, simms, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Mid June on the MO

It’s hard to believe but we’re already talking about mid-June on the MO as the 2024 campaign continues to fly by

This is PRIME TIME. These next several weeks comprise the most coveted dates of the season. These are the weeks that book out a year or more in advance. This is GO TIME in the Missouri River Fly Shop, lodging and guiding world. Buckle up!

Bugs have been semi-cooperative most days. The wind has been about the most consistent component of our young season. The two do not go hand in hand. Mid day dry fly opportunities will avail themselves more days than not but gusty winds change the equation. It’s not only heads we’re hunting but also those coveted sheltered spots that provide a respite from the often howling onslaught. We’ll always do our best to get you to those spots where sheltered waters and bugs and rising fish converge but it’s not always the case so be prepared to overcome micro-currents with that reach cast while also managing that cast in the presence of strong head or tail winds. This has always been and will always be part of the challenge of the Missouri so come prepared.

PMD’s are your mid-day go to. We highly recommend incorporating an emerger or cripple into your offering. Sprout PMD, Hatchback PMD, Dolly Wing PMD, Helen Keller, Film Critic, CDC Case PMD Emerger, Loopwing Emerger…just a few of the techy PMD patterns available now at WCA.

Caddis are present in the canyon and lower stretches. We haven’t heard much on that front just yet as far as the fishing goes but it’ll happen sooner or later.

Nymphing continues to be solid and while I was going to post the obligatory sow bug game comment I did actually hear a couple of reports just this afternoon that just maybe they are taking a break from the sow in order to focus on tasty PMD nymphs. Try a Split Case or Crack Back, PMD Magic Fly, Redemption, Psycho May, Frenchie, Glass Bullet, Military May or the like and pair it with a Purple Weight Fly or a Tung Dart or maybe even a worm with the bump that’s coming today and tomorrow.

Tomorrow looks to be another summery day with highs near 90 before things trend cooler for the weekend and into next week when there is a winter storm watch in effect for the high country with snow returning to the mountains. We won’t likely see any of that here but do prepare for highs in the 50 on Monday and Tuesday with rain in the forecast and keep those jackets and fleeces at hand as overnight lows will be dipping into the 30’s beginning on Sunday.

We’ll see what the change in weather brings. Streamer season is certainly waning at this point but with a couple of cool, rainy days on tap that might be just the ticket.

We’re in the midst of our busiest month of the season for guide trips so expect traffic in the fly shops in the morning and if you’re trying to call in a shuttle and we don’t answer try back in a bit or better yet, stop by the shop. We’re likely busy with customers so answering the phone becomes much less of a priority. We generally start running shuttles around 9:30 am so we can accommodate early outs and we generally wrap up by 3 PM so the later shuttles aren’t usually something we’re able to do. It never hurts to check though.

The shop is open at 7 AM daily for all of your Missouri River fly fishing needs. We are of course home to the CHEAPEST DAM SHUTTLES on the MO, Adipose drift boat rentals, ice, Sage rods and reels, Fishpond straw hats, Simms waders, boots and flip-flops, Suncloud and Smith optics and the largest selection of flies ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-06-13T16:23:52-06:00June 13th, 2024|Categories: Fishing Report, Shop Life|Tags: Adipose, caddis, cheapest dam shuttles on the mo, dry fly fishing, Missouri River, Montana, pmd's, running line, simms, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Mid May Rundown

May is already half gone as the blur of the busy season starts to overtake the rhythms of daily routine, replacing them with a steady immersion in the day to day essentials of the fly shop/guide trip/lodging/shuttle business.

With the accelerated passage of time that always ensues this time of year in the Montana fly fishing world it’s easy to let it fly by unnoticed which will likely happen at times during the season but while we’re thinking of it here’s a rundown of what’s happening.

Bugs – BWO’s have made a decent showing but are likely on the downward trend as the month of May slips past. Caddis have emerged. Good reports from the mid to lower stretches the last couple of days. PMD’s are next and generally show up late May/early June, weather dependent. The dry fly set is thrilled for the Caddis and waiting patiently for PMD days. Regardless of when those days arrive, if you’re nymphing you should be breaking out the PMD nymphs now. Baetis nymphs are getting plenty of attention so don’t abandon them just yet but do add Split Case PMD’s and the like to your repertoire sooner rather than later.

Streamer fishing has been hit or miss but with what looks to be a spell of wet, cooler weather ahead, if streamers are your game the week ahead could be good.

Creek Opener – The 2024 General Fishing Season opener is Saturday which is more of a Western District thing as much of the Central District is open all year but there are plenty of exceptions like the Dearborn and Little Prickly Pear in our neighborhood that open this weekend.

Dearborn Shuttles – And speaking of the Dearborn…flows are currently around 480 CFS, leveling off after peaking at around 540. It’s hard to say what will happen with these flows but it is floatable at the moment and we’ve done a few shuttles up there already and have gotten a number of inquiries about shuttles this weekend. Please call at least a day in advance to get on the list for Dearborn shuttles as we’ll be limiting them to just a couple of runs/day. We’ve got reservations on the books for both Saturday and Sunday and we have room to do a couple more each day but please do call ahead. We won’t be able to do them on a same day/walk in basis.

Guiding for the Future Featured Fly Shop of the Month – We are honored to be the first G4F Fly Shop of the Month in Montana. Guiding For The Future is part of a new continuing education program developed by the Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana to inspire dedicated stewardship of aquatic ecosystems while increasing knowledge, professionalism, and ethics of fishing guides, outfitters, and the fly-fishing industry. I had the pleasure of attending the first Guiding for the Future program in 2019 and since that time nearly half of our guide staff has been through the program and those individuals are now acting Guiding for the Future Ambassadors. Please consider rounding up your next purchase at Wolf Creek Angler to donate to the annual program which is provided free of charge to guides and outfitters in Montana and is funded by monies raised by FOAM as well as by private and corporate donations. G4F is the future of guiding in Montana and beyond. Donations can also be made directly to G4F at https://donations.guidingforthefuture.org/…

You’ll notice the G4F flag and sign out in front of the shop for the remainder of this month and hopefully our fly shop associates will ask you if you’d like to round up your purchase as a donation. We’ve gotten overwhelmingly positive responses when we’ve been asking customers if they’d like to round up though not everyone wants to support the program. If it’s busy when you’re here we’ll likely not go into the whole spiel but as a G4F Ambassador I can tell you that it is a program worthy of your support. G4F has thus far graduated 80 Montana Guiding for the Future Ambassadors, all of whom have chosen to go above and beyond by seeking continuing education designed enhance their already superior guiding skills with a deep understanding of ethics and professionalism in the industry. Thus far the average “roundup” seems to be right around .30 – .45, a small sacrifice to fund an amazing program that is provided free of charge to participants.

Guiding for the Future operates on a $50k annual budget which is completely funded by a portion of FOAM Memberships and donations from outside individuals and businesses. If you are feeling particularly moved by our mission we are also accepting Sponsorships at the following levels…

$2500 – Silver Level Sponsorship (Annual Per Student Cost)
$5000 – Gold Level Sponsorship (Half of Annual Practicum Cost)
$50,000 – Platinum Sponsorship (Covers entire annual budget of G4F)

Every little bit helps. Please consider making a donation in any amount today and if you’d like to hear more about the program we love talking about Guiding for the Future.
G4F is delivered through FOAM’s separate non-profit organization, the Montana Fishing Outfitters Conservation Fund. The Conservation Fund is an exempt organization as described in Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN 81-0523165. No goods or services were provided in exchange for this contribution.

Shop Hours – Currently 7:30 AM – 5 PM Daily. 7 AM Daily Open coming soon.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-05-16T14:43:04-06:00May 16th, 2024|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: caddis, Dearborn, Dearborn Shuttles, dry fly fishing, Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana, fly fishing, Guiding for the Future, Little Prickly Pear, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

It’s been a cold and wet start to May this week on the MO with everything from high winds to winter storms but change is on the way.

We awoke to several inches of wet, heavy snow yesterday in Helena and saw snow and rain showers come and go throughout the day. Temps in the low 40’s and north winds resulted in a few cancelled trips yesterday but plenty braved the elements and were rewarded with a decent (though cold) day of fishing.

The fun continued after fishing as the power went out in Wolf Creek and Craig shutting down dinner plans and leaving a lot of chilled anglers in the dark waiting for power to be restored which it was by 8:30 PM. Just another spring day in Montana.

Temps are considerably warmer today, in the high 50’s and the morning rains have pretty well subsided and it’s only going to get better (and likely busier) as the weekend arrives.

We’ll see temps near 70 tomorrow and will see 80’s on Saturday and Sunday with plenty of sunshine right on through Monday. A chance for rain again starting on Tuesday but it looks like winter weather may be behind us. That being said, while yesterday’s weather did present some challenges all the way around we were thrilled to get some desperately needed precipitation. The snowpack map is looking much better today for the entire region and with the moisture we got yesterday and today and temps warming, things should really start to green up this weekend.

Fishing will continue to be good though you may want to start looking at early or later starts to avoid some of the traffic that is bound to be here throughout the weekend and into next week. Spring bookings are about to be at their height for both guide trips and lodging now through Memorial Day with summer’s PRIME on deck.

Larger sow bugs and worms have been productive on the rainy days and will continue to produce with flows having bumped and the tribs adding a bit of color and volume. We saw a spike to 5600 CFS this morning but that’s been dialed back to 4600 cfs as of this writing. Water temps are right around 46 degrees and will continue to climb. The water conditions are ideal for hungry and happy trout…truly a perfect time to fish the MO.

Getting back to the bugs, baetis nymphs are consistently producing with Green Machines, Crack Backs, Psycho Mays, Radiation Baetis, Mosasons and plain old Pheasant Tails getting it done. Maybe start mixing in some PMD stuff as well, Magic Flies, Split Case, Redemptions…all on deck.

Dry fly action continues to please with ample BWO and midge opportunities to be had and streamer fishing will continue to be productive, especially on the overcast days. Skiddish Smolt continues to rule the 2024 streamer season but don’t limit yourself to what everyone else is throwing. Show them something they haven’t seen.

Even with the wet weather mornings have been extremely busy in the shop so we’re expecting the weekend to be even busier and we’ll be staffed up accordingly. We hope you make Wolf Creek Angler your one stop shop on the way to the river for The Cheapest Dam Shuttles on the MO, the biggest and best bug selection ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana, Adipose drift boat rentals, Mending Waters Drift Boats FREE FOR ALL ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY AND VETS, Sage rods, Simms waders and boots, SA and Rio lines and leaders, tons of WCA 10th Anniversary Logo gear and so much more.

Shop Hours are 7:30 AM – 5 PM Daily.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-05-09T15:00:35-06:00May 9th, 2024|Categories: Fishing Report, Shop Life|Tags: cheapest dam shuttles on the mo, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Sage, simms, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

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