About the Missouri River – A Guide to Fly Fishing

Fly fishing the Missouri River near Craig, Montana, is a world-class experience. This stretch of river, often referred to as the "Blue Ribbon" section, is famous for its abundant trout population, consistent hatches, and stunning scenery. Here’s what you need to know:

Fishing Conditions

• Trout Population: The Missouri River near Craig boasts around 5,000-7,000 trout per mile, primarily rainbow and brown trout.
• Average Size: Most trout range from 16-20 inches, with some exceeding 24 inches.
• Water Flow: The river is tailwater-controlled, meaning flows are regulated by the Holter Dam, ensuring stable conditions year-round.

Spring (March – May)

• Caddisflies – March to May
  
• Early Mayflies / Brown Mayflies – April to May
  
• Stoneflies (early emergence) – May
  

Summer (June – August)

• Golden Stoneflies – Late May to June
  
• PMDs (Pale Morning Duns) – June to July
  
• Caddis – Summer months
  
• Hoppers – Late July to August
  

Fall (September – November)

• Blue-Winged Olives – September to October
  
• Caddis – September
  
• Tricos – September to October

• Spring (March-May): Blue-winged olives (BWOs) and midges bring great dry fly action, especially for pre-runoff fishing.
• Summer (June-August): Prime season with PMDs (Pale Morning Duns), caddis, and terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) hatching in abundance.
• Fall (September-November): Large brown trout become aggressive before the spawn; streamer fishing is excellent.
• Winter (December-February): While cold, the Missouri remains fishable year-round with midges and nymphing tactics.

• Nymphing: The go-to method, especially with scuds, sowbugs, San Juan worms, and mayfly nymphs.
• Dry Fly Fishing: In summer, the PMD and caddis hatches make for exciting dry fly action.
• Streamer Fishing: Fall is ideal for aggressive browns, with streamers like Sculpzillas, Sparkle Minnows, and Sex Dungeons.

Access Points & Boat Ramps

• Craig: The heart of fly fishing culture, with multiple guide services, fly shops, and river access.
• Holter Dam: A great starting point for drift boats, with productive water below.
• Wolf Creek Bridge: Easy wade-fishing access and a good put-in spot for boats.
• Stickney Creek, Spite Hill, Mid-Canon, Pruitt Creek and Pelican Point: Additional access points downstream.

• Rod: 9’ 5wt or 6wt rod for versatility.
• Line: Weight-forward floating line for dries/nymphs; sink-tip for streamers.
• Leaders/Tippet: 9-12ft leaders, 4X-6X tippet depending on clarity.