Helena Area Outdoor Report
By Matt Schauer

Posted: January 27, 2012

Here’s what we know about the Missouri River–

Expect very windy conditions. We’ve received a few reports of good fishing, but the Dry Fly activity is back to being very slow with the colder weather of the last couple weeks..stick to your Nymph game! Various colors of San Juan worms have proven to be successful. We’ve heard good things about the upper section being quite productive, & the fish here holding out for some bigger meals, so a little STREAMER action might be in the cards! Try your rust Hogans S&M Nymph or a Pink Soft Hackle for nymphing, or go with the Bling Minnow if you want to toss some meat!

At Canyon Ferry–

High winds are expected here, too, for the next few days. Anglers are catching perch at the south end of Canyon Ferry Lake at a depth of 40’ of water. Close to shore at the Silos is good for you rainbow trout anglers. Try 6’ below the ice. Hali spoon tipped with maggots seems to be the bait of choice. The colder temps have stabilized the ice. Received a report of another ATV through the ice earlier this week. Use extreme caution if you decide to venture out on the ice. Gear up for this weekend, January 28 & 29—it’s the Broadwater Lions Perch Derby!

At Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir–

Reports are the ice is pretty good here, but the fishing is very slow. A few salmon have been pulled out of the reservoir this week. Try Blue & silver, some have reported luck with these colors.

For you Skiers, Great Divide Ski

has is 48” of snow at the lower mountain, and 48” at the upper mountain. 1” of new snow. Currently light snow fall. Lower mountain has the better, natural surfaces with some light powder. On the upper mountain, expect groomed trails.

At Showdown–

No new snow. Snow pack at the base is 38”, 51” at the summit. Packed powder & groomed surfaces. All lifts & trails are open!

Get ready for the Canyon Ferry Perch Derby and the Derbies to come with some new ice cleats & the power auger you’ve always wanted….Bob Wards in Helena is just the place to gear up for these events! We’ll let you know more next week about winter fishing in the area!

This report is provided by Angie from Bob Ward & Sons, updating the sport scene in the HELENA area!

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