Helena Recreation Report by Bob Ward and Sons – 9.20.13
By angelamontana

Posted: September 20, 2013

Hunting:

Archery season for Antelope, Elk and Deer is now open!!! General hunting season is just around the corner with Antelope starting on October 12th. Deer and Elk general season will be starting on October 26th.

Upland bird hunting for grouse & partridge opened on September 1. Youth hunt dates for pheasants are September 21 and 22nd. General pheasant season begins October 12.

Fishing:

Most rivers & streams have had fishing restrictions lifted. For the complete up to date listing you can go to:

http://fwp.mt.gov/news/restrictions/waterClosure.html

Some good flies to use right now are Para Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis, and hoppers in smaller sizes 14-20. Try nymphing using San Juan Worms red or pink or scuds tan and gray.

Holding Helena Reservoir:

Salmon snagging is in full swing, only until the end of September.

Missouri river:

Temperatures are dropping and we are expecting some more rain. Try nymphing using San Juan Worms red or pink or scuds tan and gray. Find the holes.

Canyon Ferry:

Rainbow trout are biting on just worms and marshmallows. With the change in temp the Walleye bite will drop off. Green and yellow jigs seem to be the key. Some say a lavender blade is working fairly well.

Hauser Lake:

Below the dam and along steep banks of Hauser Lake, walleye fishing has been good, but with the weather changing it could be spotty at best. Bottom bouncers with a fire tiger and crawler might be your best bet. Walleye fishing at the Causeway has been fair.

(Report by Ryan Corwin – Bob Ward and Sons; Cover photo: wgby.org)

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