Great Falls, Montana Fishing Report 10.11.18

Missouri River

Fall did not mess around this year.  None of those warm summerlike days mixed in with the cooler ones.  The outlook is for mostly cool weather with a splash of mild here and there.  It’s my kind of fishing weather.  As long as the daytime temps stay above icing, I’m happy.

Nymphs

As the days get shorter, the periods of fish feeding activity become more compressed.  If you are not a fan of being out early, you can wait until midday and work the baetis window.  Running short leaders with nymphs and emergers or even dry dropper rigs over the flats can be very rewarding midday to early afternoon.

If you like to get out early, you’ll likely do best running longer leaders and fishing scuds, sows, and larger attractor nymphs. Fall fish want to eat.

Dry Flies

Terrestrial season is basically over, but for some reason, you’ll still find fish receptive to the ant.  A few caddis are about, especially on the warmest days, but by and large, it is a baetis show now. Fall baetis run the gamut from diminutive little bugs smaller than tricos to the favored #18 bwo.

Purple parachute patterns in #18 are often a favorite.  The venerable para adams is always a solid choice.  If the fish are snooty, a techy pattern like the film critic should get it done. If the hatch is really heavy, a well-dressed Griffith’s or cluster midge can be effective.

Streamers

A few positive streamer reports have been circulating lately.  I love to fish streamers early in the day before the bugs get moving.  Both striping and swinging are on the menu.  If big fish are on your agenda, fish streamers all day.

Galloup’s flies in the mini versions, like the mini dungeon, are ideal on the Missouri River most days. Some days, the fish groove on the smaller flashy stuff like the skiddish, kreelex, or flash n’ grab.

Stillwaters

The local reservoirs and the Blackfoot Reservation Lakes are all fishing really well. You can’t go wrong stripping leeches.  This time of year, you can also fish some big ones. If it’s really calm and the fish are spooky, suspend some chironomids.

Stop In

The coffee is always on.  We speak fish and we are stocked to the gills with all the hats, gloves, under and outwear you’ll want to stay warm and happy during your fall and winter fly fishing.  You’ll even look good while doing it!

See past reports from the Great Falls region here, or click here to view all northwest regional reports.