The October Window: A Missouri River Fishing Report

Some call October the shoulder season on the Missouri. The baetis didn’t get that memo, and neither did the rainbows above Craig.

Check out the latest report by Montana Angler for the Missouri River as of October 14, 2026:

Current Conditions:
October on the Missouri River means dry fly fishing is back on the menu, but pick your moments and your sections wisely. Most of the Blue-Winged Olives right now are being spotted more in the canyon sections that are above Craig or below Cascade. The Missouri near Craig and Wolf Creek is producing some good baetis dry fly action and some late terrestrial fishing. The Upper river above Canyon Ferry is improving as trout from the lake move up into the river. This is a low numbers game fishery but there are some nice trout to contend with. Nymphing a large zonker trailed by a basic smaller attractor is a good bet. It is also a nice option to bring a dry fly rod along to keep an eye out for big rainbows sipping on baetis dries if you are so lucky. The carp are still in the river although the carping is getting tougher as water temps drop. 

The Month Ahead:
The Upper Mo will be a fun option into late October.  The Tailwater section should also produce some decent fall action.  

Long Term Fishing Forecast:
The Missouri near Craig can produce some good winter wade fishing but it is a big and windy river to float in the winter months.  Standard fair like a pink sow bug trailed by a midge larva is a good option.
 

Visit Our Shop for These Top Missouri River Flies Right Now:

Juju beatis in black or olive in size 18-22

Brindlechutes in sizes 16-22

October caddis in size 10

Para Adams in size 18-22

Sawyer Pheasant Tail in size 18-24

RS2 Emerger in olive, black, or brown in size 18-22

Wondernymphs in black in sizes 18-22

Beadhead Zebra midge, black or red, size 22

Mole Midge size 20

Midge larva in red or purple in size 20-22