April 20, 2023 Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 04/19/2023
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
Nymphing is the staple on the river below Holter Dam for the time being - rising fish can be found, off and on throughout most days during Midge Hatches. BWO hatches will start to pick up soon - we just need the water to warm up a few more degrees.
Fishing standard indicator rigs with about 5-7 feet between the strike indicator and the first fly will find plenty of fish along the inside seams and deep runs. Typical flies right now include various worm patterns followed by a sowbug or midge. As BWO's start to show up, the fish will begin to move into foam lines and more traditional feeding lines - small bugs like dark perditions, juju Baetis, and little green machines will become more important
There are some Skwala around in the canyon stretches and the persistent angler wanting to skate a size 8-10 water walker can find a fish here and there as well.
We offer guided fly-fishing trips on this section of the Missouri River from April 24 - June 6 in 2023. E-mail us for availability or book online as well (just click on any of our Book Now buttons on this website)
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Tailwater Sowbug Jig
Black Zebra Midge
Red San Juan Worm
Rogue River Skwala
Missouri River Fly Fishing in Craig Montana
This 35-mile stretch of the Missouri River offers some of the finest fly fishing in Montana. The cold water released from Holter Dam creates a productive tailwater fishery. The river supports a robust population of Rainbow and Brown Trout, thanks to its rich invertebrate biomass.
Our "Missouri River Fishing Guide" is a comprehensive guide to the river stretches and seasonal hatches along with pro tips from our seasoned team of Bozeman fly fishing guides.