Great Falls Fishing Report 9.28.2017

—North 40 Great Falls

missouri river fishing report september

Wader Season is back

For those not chasing fur and feathers, the fishing has been stellar most days since our big weather change on September 13. After an extensive drought, we experienced a flash of fall that brought significant moisture, freezing lows and highs in the 40s and 50s. Everything changed in a good way and it’s staying the course. Highs are currently creeping back up to a very comfortable 70-degree range, meaning it could not be more perfect out there right now.The water temps have dropped into the upper 50s and the fish are charged up. Expect great fishing conditions to continue for many weeks as the water remains in the 50s and the trout continue to feed heavily.

On Top

Flows have now dropped below 4,000 cubic feet a second and there are plenty of bugs that keep the trout looking up and feeding on top. Big Pseudo mayfly hatches are coming off daily with a few larger BWO’s in the mix. A fair number of caddis, in several sizes and colors, are bouncing around in the afternoons. A few of the giant October caddis are starting to show, too. A random smattering of larger mayflies and flying ants are present. Afternoons and evenings provide great dry-fly opportunities. The purple Para Adams, Purple Haze and the standard gray Para Adams can find favor. Tiny BWO’s in #20 or smaller tempt the Pseudo-eaters in the afternoon. Roll your favorite adult or spent caddis in the evening. If in doubt at any time, fish a cinnamon or purple Bloom’s Para Ant or Stealth Ant.

Underneath

Many anglers and guides choose the Tailwater Sow bug or Czech Nymph as their go-to top fly in a #14 or #16. Others like the Hares Ear or the Pheasant Tail. Below that, you can either add another smaller version of the same, or tie on your favorite little mayfly or midge option. On my most recent floats, #20 slender mayflies, like the Green Machine and BWO Magic Fly, worked very well . . .before the hatches got heavy. Tufted Zebras also fit the niche and double as emergers when the hatch is on.

On the Strip or the Swing

More anglers are playing the streamer game. The combination of early, late and clouds generally provide the best windows, but any time you feel like tossing, players await. Kreelex, Flash N’ Grab’s, Balanced Leeches and Buggers are a good bet. A quick pace will generally provoke the most aggressive response.

Other Local Waters—

Beyond the Mo, all the area streams are fishing well. Good reports this past week from Belt, Otter, the Sun, and the Smith and a few other gems. Think October caddis, BWO’s and JJ Buggers. Don’t overlook the reservoirs for big fish in the fall. Many anglers only think about fishing the lakes after ice-out, but action heats up again in the fall as the waters cool. The fish are in excellent shape after summer feeding and gorging before the ice comes back again. Balanced Leeches are hard to beat in black, olive or brown. Larger buggers and various streamers can provoke the real toads. If you’ve been waiting for the fishing to get better, the time is now.

Check out our selection of flies online here.