Hi, Angie @ Bob Ward & Sons in Helena, & here’s where the ICE FISHIN’s taking you by storm:
Canyon Ferry is frozen over here—& fishng darn well from what we hear! You’ve got about 7-9” on the south end. We recommend Chartreuse rattail jigs or wooly buggers fishing at 5′ in 8’ of water. The trout are leaping onto your Glo Hooks, & we’ve had some old-timers trying the “oatmeal around the drilled hole” trick to pretty good success out here! The Causeway’s still great on BOTH sides, Lake HELENA & HAUSER—reports are good of some really solid ice here!
Water temps on the Missouri have dropped, so the fish are slowing down. Nymphing with a light leader and small shot is the best method for fishing the Big Mo in the winter. A pink scud is popular with the local trout. Pink is always a good color so you might also try it in Lightning Bugs & Sowbugs. If you prefer a streamer then try some dirty leach patterns, just be sure to go deep & slow. Hits are subtle so pay attention. Watch for high winds and snow for the remainder of the week.
Sure enough, we’re getting that snow that was predicted for this weekend, so GREAT DIVIDE is raring to have you up! Plenty of powder on top, & better skiing than we’ve had in a couple weeks…don’t miss out!
Don’t miss out on any of the new year deals on WARM gear for this bitter cold weather, either! Stop by the Helena store for all your favorites, & we’ll tell you what’s shaping up post-storm, again next week!
