The recent shift toward cooler, windier weather may have thinned out the crowds this past weekend, but the fishing remains productive for those willing to layer up. From the north end of Canyon Ferry down through the scenic stretches of Holter, trout enthusiasts are finding success both from the shoreline and by boat. While the dipping temperatures have slowed the walleye and perch bite in some areas, the rainbow trout action continues to be a highlight across the system.
Here is the latest breakdown for Canyon Ferry, Hauser, and Holter reservoirs:
Canyon Ferry: It was a slow weekend due to the weather. A few rainbows are being caught from shore on the north end while using leech pattern flies, black nymphs or hook and worm. Boat anglers are picking up rainbows on the north end or in the Silos area while trolling with cowbells or crankbaits. Walleyes are being caught between Pond 1 and the river and from Duck Creek to Confederate in 10 to 15 feet of water while bottom bouncing with a worm or using crankbaits. Troy Humphrey, FWP, Helena
Hauser: The weekend was cold and windy and not many anglers were out fishing. There has been decent rainbow action below Canyon Ferry Dam while using nightcrawlers, Power Bait, or flies imitating eggs or scuds. A few rainbows are being picked up from shore around York Bridge as well with the same equipment. Not many boats were out on Lake Helena or on Hauser this weekend, but a few rainbows are being caught while trolling cowbells and wedding ring combos between York Bridge and Black Sandy. Chris Hurley, FWP, Helena
Holter: The cooler weekend kept most anglers away however the rainbow fishing continues to be great from shore around most of the public access points. There are still decent numbers of trout cruising the shorelines around The Gates of the Mountains area, the BLM boat ramp, and Log Gulch. Egg flies and balanced leeches have been working well for fly anglers. Boaters are catching trout as well while trolling crankbaits or Thomas lures in the Black Beach and Split Rock areas. Walleye and perch fishing has been slow with the cooler temperatures. Chris Hurley, FWP, Helena