Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 10/29/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Missouri River below Holter Dam has been fishing well around Craig, with nymphing providing the most consistent action. Cooler nights have helped improve the fall fishing, and late morning through the afternoon is a good window to be on the water. Floating weeds are still an issue in places, so check your flies regularly.
Sowbugs are the mainstay right now. A sowbug paired with a small BWO nymph or zebra midge is a good setup, with sizes 18–20 worth trying. Focus on the slower runs and flats where fish are feeding. If you're not getting eats, adjust your depth before changing flies.
Blue-winged olives have been hatching in good numbers, especially on cloudy days. Fish have been coming up to feed when conditions line up, so keep a few small BWO cripples and emergers handy. Streamers are also worth fishing early or when the weather turns cloudy, with leeches and smaller baitfish patterns good options.
Overall, the Missouri is a solid late-fall option. Nymphing should provide the most consistent action, but anglers watching for afternoon BWO hatches may find some good dry fly opportunities as well.
Additional Resources:
- October Fly Fishing in Bozeman, MT.
Stream Flows
View stream flow graph on USGS
Recommended Flies
Tailwater Sowbug Jig
Tailwater Sowbug
Black Zebra Midge
White Zonker
Gray Sprout Midge
Olive Tailwater Tiny
Olive Mini Dungeon
Gray Gonga
Missouri River Fly Fishing in Craig Montana
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.
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