Great Falls, Montana Fishing Report 04.26.18
“The river is really high!” That’s what people are saying. It is certainly somewhat higher than this time last year, but it’s not really high yet. That will likely be coming now that spring is finally here and daily temps will move past 70 degrees.
Dry Flies
The good news is that the water is finally pushing upwards from 40 degrees and it should be 42 or better this week. A few BWO’s are starting to pop, along with a steady stream of midges. Some fish are gobbling on the clusters when they form. Actually had a really good dry-fly session with a #18 Midge Cluster early this week.
A few Skwala Stoneflies are present below the Dearborn River. Fishing them over water you know is holding fish is a viable choice. Consider dropping a midge or a jigged nymph off the Skwala and enjoy floating the river in nice weather.
Streamers
Streamer fishing is hit and miss. Sometimes they hit and sometimes you miss. While not red hot, throwing a big articulated fly will get you some attention if you cover enough water. If you know right where to put it, that’s even better. Mixed success on the smaller flies. As the water gets big and colored, I like to throw big and colorful streamers…and black. Always consider black.
Nymphing
While we’d love to see some stable flows for a few days so the fish can relax, it does not seem like that is going to happen. If we can get even two or three days in a row of stability, the fishing can be really good. If you land on the river as water is being released, fishing can be tough. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the ride. The weather is finally wonderful.
On the technical side, lengthen those leaders and look to the inside turns. Fish the big seams off islands. Find the water where the fish can hold and efficiently eat and you can reach them with a good drift.
BWO nymphs are active. March nymphs are a good choice too. Scuds, sow bugs and worms are always a staple. In these higher flows with stained water, the orange and pink firebead patterns should keep on working well into May.
Ice Out
Holter has been producing lots of trout for a couple weeks now. Willow Creek and Nilan reservoirs are finally open along with Ackley and others If you don’t have a boat, now is the time to get in some great licks on fish that are easy to reach and easy to catch.
If you are heading to a lake for ice out fun, we’ve got lots of flies to get you in the game, starting with the extremely popular balanced leeches and balanced squirrels. San Juan Worms in blood and purple have also been hot tickets along with a variety of chironomids, Simi Leeches and buggers.
Upcoming Events
May 4th and 5th - Trout Spey Clave on the Missouri River (Mid Canon FAS)
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