Montana has no shortage of water this spring. Most mountain ranges had snow packs well over 100% of average, some over 150% of average. High and muddy water across the state will cause some headaches for folks fishing this spring and early summer. However, in the big picture lots of water is good for Montana’s fisheries. I will take an extended run off over low and warm water conditions any time. When will the Yellowstone be in shape to fish? No one knows, but July 15 is the earliest I can imagine. More than likely between then and August 1. We shall see.
Currently we are fishing the Missouri River near Craig Montana. This is an annual migration for us to this area for the months of May and June. This year we will push as much into July was we can. This amazing tail water has the protection of 4 dams upstream, so though the volume can be large, there is clean water to fish. This morning the Missouri is at 15,000 cubic feet per second. Little Prickly Pear Creek and the Dearborn River have calmed a bit and are not blowing the main river out, so it is fish-able from the Dam to Cascade. Nymphing has been the most consistent method as usual. No bugs hatching to speak of for dry flies. Some guys are getting a few on streamers thrown to the bank. Overall, fishing is consistent and fun is being had by all. How high will the water get on the Missouri? Its anybodies guess, but I have heard rumors of 16,000. We are almost there. A wise man once said “it is what it is”. We will embrace what ever mother nature throws at us and enjoy the opportunity to adapt to the conditions.
There are a few open dates on the calendar for May and June. Give us a call and book some days on the Missouri. It is a river that every trout fisherman needs to experience.