Based on Headhunters Fly Shop’s report by Mark Raisler
The Missouri River is running at about 2,800 cfs, with low, wadeable flows. Water temperatures have dropped below 50.6°F and are still falling. November insect activity includes BWOs and midges, with some tan caddis; October Caddis may occasionally draw interest when skittered across the water.
For nymphing, try short, shallow rigs, generally 0–2 feet deep. A true nymph setup may make it easier to get a clean drift than a dry-dropper rig. Deeper morning presentations can also produce, especially in the center of the river; a worm or sow pattern paired with a BWO is one suggested option. Very shallow, unweighted rigs are worth trying too.
Swing anglers can look to soft hackles and other trout-spey patterns. Dry-fly action tends to be best in the latter part of the day, with BWOs and midges bringing fish up; try a visible cripple, emerger, or dun. For streamer fishing, low light, cloudy skies, and calm winds have been favorable, with small black leeches a recent choice.
“We love November.”
“Dry Fly anglers enjoying the last half of the day.”
Shop, location, and local services: Headhunters Fly Shop is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the winter season, offering shuttles, guide trips, lodging information, and trout-spey gear and flies.
Headhunters L.L.C.
145 Bridge Street, Craig, MT 59648
Located on I-15, halfway between Great Falls and Helena, at Exit 234.
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