Winter has settled in hard along the Missouri River below Holter Dam, and if you think Bozeman’s been cold, Craig just said, “Hold my beer.” Even with the deep freeze tightening its grip, the fishing has been pretty darn solid — you just might have to work a little harder (and layer up a little thicker) to enjoy it. Here’s the latest from Yellow Dog Flyfishing with the flow update and what’s been producing for anglers willing to brave the chill:
Flow Data: Missouri River below Holter Dam near Wolf Creek, MT
Even colder in Craig than around Bozeman this week. Fishing has been pretty darn good but this frigid weather will make it tough to get out. Fishing had been good with nymphing, swinging and streamer fishing. This cold may change that. Keep an eye peeled for rising fish. If you do locate rising trout, a Griffith’s Gnat or small Parachute Adams paired with a good drift should trick the fish into taking your fly. Nymphing has been the most consistent action and will likely be quite good through the winter. A tailwater sowbug or something similar paired with a midge nymph or small perdigon is a tough nymph rig to beat. Find fish mostly in the slow moving deep water. Swinging has been good. Olive or peacock soft hackles have been quite effective. Small buggers and leeches have been tricking trout on the swing and stripped. Streamer fishing should continue to produce. I personally like smaller options like Sparkle Minnows or Skiddish Smolts. Baby Gongas and Sparring Partners are also fantastic options.
Feature photo: Yellow Dog Flyfishing
