Great Falls, Montana Fishing Report 06.08.18
Missouri River, Montana
It looks like the corner has been turned. Inflows to Canyon Ferry have dropped this week with 6% of the Reservoir yet to fill. Outflows at Holter started down on Tuesday. While fishing has not been bad, it’s likely to get really good. We should see water falling steadily and we will be reaching a normal summer flow where once again, dry flies will be on the menu. Stay tuned.
Nymphs
Worms, Mayfly Nymphs, Caddis Pupa, Scuds, Sow Bugs and Crayfishy stuff. The Tailwater Sow has been in high demand along with the Gut Sack Sow in gray. Worms and sows are a staple, but there are lots of flies working now. It’s time to break out your favorite PMD nymphs. The hatch is starting and should build up soon.
Dry Flies
A few more heads are about. You will see some splashy rises that will drive you crazy if you chase them. Not enough bugs on top to get fish working steadily. It’s going to be a little while.
Streamers
Sometimes yes. Sometimes no. The fish are hot and cold when it comes to chasing the big flies, but early in the day has been best.
Local Streams
It’s go time. Salmon flies and Purple Hazes have been getting slammed in a few places. Belt, Highwood, Thain and Otter are all on the menu as well as a few even higher up and smaller. If you want to float the Dearborn, get after it. Water is choice right now.
Stillwaters
Mixed reports with mixed weather on the lakes. Some great Callibaetis hatches on the calm days. Damsels are starting to get active too. Hanging a Chironomid is always a good tactic if the wind is at bay. When it’s blowing, hang a balanced leech, balanced damsel or a jigged hares ear.
Pike, bass, carp, walleye, sauger, perch, goldeye, drum and channel cats are all in our lower Missouri system and they will all eat a fly. Perch are getting chompy at Holter and they love balanced leeches, worms and scuds. Go catch yourself some fish tacos!
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