Thankful for the Missouri River 11.23.16
I’m thankful that I live in a place and at a time when I can travel minutes from my house and immerse myself in the Missouri River and go fly fishing. Or I can travel less than an hour in either direction and find a myriad of opportunities. It is truly a blessing and not something I take for granted.
If you find yourself with a few moments to spare over the Thanksgiving holiday period, the fishing report is still pretty good out there. The mild fall weather is keeping the water temps up and the fish are still eating steadily.
Nymphing with scuds and sows followed by a tiny mayfly or zebra midge will keep you in the game. Tailwater Sows, Czechs and Rays are all in favor. You can also try the Mini Mo Czech with a Tufted Zebra for a fresh look.
Want to see the nymphs you need for hooking up on the Mo this Thanksgiving break? Then click here.
If you want heads, make sure you’ve got a line rigged with a Griffiths. Midges are the most reliable hatch going. Blind fishing dries along the edges can produce fish if you enjoy that game. Pick your favorite confidence parachute and give it a ride.
Of it gets cold anytime soon, be sure you are ready to fish through the chill with this: Cold Weather Fishing Gear.
Streamer fishing is still a viable choice, but it’s time to slow the strip down a bit. In some areas, fish are still in skinny water, so a floating line will cover that zone best. Others are hanging out in mid river lanes where a sink tip and larger fly will get better attention.
Swing season is here. Whether you choose to use a single hand or double hand Spey rod, swinging streamers is an ideal late fall and winter technique. Lately, the bite has been strong in the afternoon. Lots of flies are working, but smaller buggers and balanced leeches in a variety of colors are hard to beat. I usually start out with something of the Polar Minnow, Kreelex or Montana Intruder variety to check their mood. If they are plucking or ignoring my chosen fly, I opt for something leechy in black, brown or olive.
This way to the land of streamers and #fathawgs --> BLAM.
On any given day and in just about any weather condition, the Missouri River provides excellent fishing opportunities. For that, I am very thankful.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at North 40 Outfitters.