Inconsistent Fishing in the Helena Area Fishing Report
By Kjel

Posted: August 7, 2012

Canyon Ferry:  Rainbow trout fishing remains inconsistent, but some anglers are picking up a few trolling cranks (silver, orange and perch colored) and spoons (brass or silver) around Confederate, White Earth and Goose Bay in 20 to 40 feet of water.    Walleye fishing has been best early in the morning and late in the evening.  Quite a few walleye are being picked up mid reservoir, especially around White Earth and Goose Bay, trolling worm harnesses in 15 to 30 feet of water.  In addition, the south end waterfowl ponds continue to produce fish in 6 to 12 feet of water.  Vertical jigging (green, pink and orange) for walleye on bay points is very effective between Confederate and the Dam.  Yellow perch are on the bite this time of year trolling worm harnesses throughout the reservoir.  Be aware of afternoon thunderstorms this time of year on the south end of the reservoir. Adam Strainer, FWP, Helena

Hauser:  Rainbow action has slowed up with a few being caught while trolling deep water in the early morning hours with cowbells and worms around White Sandy.  Shore fishing for walleye at the Causeway Bridge at night has produced some good action.  Bottom bouncing or jigging with leeches in the Causeway and around Spokane Bay has produced good results as well. Troy Humphrey, FWP, Helena

Holter:  The rainbows have gone deep, but those trolling cowbells at 30 to 50 feet deep are finding good results in the mornings from Split Rock to Holter Dam.  Shore fishing for rainbows is slow.  Walleye fishing continues to be good while using worms or leeches at 10 to 20 feet deep in bays in the lower reservoir and around Holter Dam.  Some perch are being caught in these areas as well.  Troy Humphrey, FWP, Helena

Adam Strainer

Fisheries Technician
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Helena Area Resource Office
930 Custer Ave. W.
Helena, MT 59620
(406) 495-3263
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