May 9, 2023 Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 05/09/2023
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The main-stem of the Missouri is in good shape between Holter Dam and the Dearborn River. Although the Dearborn is still high and dirty, the water is blending quickly which is improving water quality below the Dearborn. Expect to have a lot of friends on the river between the Dam and the Dearborn right now.
The fishing continues to be solid with fish being found around the ledges, drop-offs, and seams coming off rip rap banks. The BWO are particularly abundant when the clouds come over, but disappear quickly in the sun. The dedicated dry fly angler can find a few fish rising in the soft water seams during those cloudy periods for the time being.
The majority of themishing is using nymph rigs under an indicator right now. I have been fishing two dark colored Perdigon style nymphs in either a size 16 or 18 out 6' below the strike indicator. Deeper setup with Sowbug patterns are also working well on the inside corner row arounds.
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
Red San Juan Worm
Butano Lite Brite Perdigon
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
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.