Bozeman/Butte Recreation Report Bob Ward's Sports and Outdoors

Bozeman/Butte Recreation Report by Bob Ward’s Sports & Outdoors (7.22.16)
By angelamontana

Posted: July 22, 2016

Bozeman Fishing:

Gallatin

There is a Hoot Owl closure in effect from Shed’s bridge to the mouth from 2 PM till midnight. The river is clear so a stealthy approach and having a variety of bugs in a few sizes and colors is key. Caddis and PMD’s are coming off in the early mornings and afternoons. Soft hackles and emergers are working well too. Hoppers and crickets would be a good bet as well

Upper Madison

The river is running a little bony, but flows and temperature have been good. PMD, caddis, and yellow sallies are hatching in the mornings and evenings, and having a variety of patterns is key. Spinners and sedges are also coming out, so have some rusties or a goddard’s caddis in the box. Streamers have been doing well, especially in black and white.

Lower Madison

With a hoot owl closure, fishing closes at 2. Dryfly fishing is best early morning, with clouds of PMD’s and caddis active. The streamer bite has been good, try throwing something big and see what it can pull in. dead drifting crayfish and sculpins has been effective as well

Yellowstone

The river is clean and running well, and its fishing well

 

Butte Fishing

Warmer weather this week may have an adverse effect on water levels and temperatures. Stay tuned to fwp.mt.gov for the latest on restrictions.

Some of the restrictions were lifted this past week on the Upper Big Hole River above Dickey Bridge, however, Hoot Owl restrictions are still in force on most of the local rivers.  The Caddis hatches and Golden Stones have been prominent on most of The Big Hole Rivers. Golden Nymphs and a few small bead heads have been good fly choice, hares ear and pheasant tails size 14.  The Jefferson River is shallow and mossy right now but early morning fishing has been fair.  Brown Caddis, Stimulators (orange and yellow) and a few Din patterns in size 14 or 16 have been fair.  A few hoppers are showing up so Hopper patterns could be a benefit.  Georgetown Lake has been great fishing this month. Damsel Nymphs and Damsel Flies have been excellent.  Sheep head patterns are awesome if they can be found.  The Beaverhead is experiencing some limitations to fishing below Anderson Lake to the Jefferson River. Hoot Owl restrictions are in place.

Stone fly nymphs have been picking up lately.

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