Helena Recreation Report by Bob Ward & Sons – 5.17.13
By angelamontana

Posted: May 17, 2013
(photo courtesy of ginkandgasoline.com)
 

Let’s get some safety tips and key dates out of the way first:

  • Run-off has started so be careful if you are wading and wear your PFD!
  • Creeks and Streams open to fishing Saturday.

On the Missouri River some run-off has begun, but water is not getting cloudy yet so fishing has remained good. For dry flies, concentrate on the wulff patterns. Beatis, caddis and midges are working well. Pheasant tails and Czech Nymphs are worth trying. Streamers are an option on cloudy days or before a storm.

At Canyon Ferry if aiming for trout, try trolling cowbell rigs with streamers or spoons. We are still waiting on the leeches to arrive, so trolling the drop-offs or ridges morning to mid-day and hitting the flats in the evening for walleye is your best bet. Focus on perch or rainbow rapalas or worm rigs with bottom bouncers.

The Lake Helena Walleyes are slowing down on average but success depends on the day. Trolling shallow rapalas behind plainer boards is still the preferred way to go.

Boulder River success lies in medium and large nymphs. Prince and Hare’s ears are two options to try. Red and purple are producing and are generally easier to follow in cloudier water.

(Report by Ryan Corwin – Bob Ward & Sons)
 
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