Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 01/02/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Missouri River continues to be one of the most dependable places to fish right now. Being a tailwater, it has stayed open and consistent even as winter settles in. Wind has been the main challenge lately, but when conditions line up, fishing from late morning through the afternoon has been very good.
Nymphing is the clear focus. Scuds and sowbugs are doing a lot of the work, with zebra midges and small mayfly nymphs running behind them. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 4X has been a solid setup, with enough weight to keep flies where fish are holding. Depth has mattered more than changing patterns.
Trout have been set up in deeper water with even current. Spending time fishing those areas thoroughly has paid off more than moving around a lot. This has been a river where patience makes a difference in winter.
Streamer fishing is still an option, especially during the warmest part of the day, but it hasn’t been necessary to rely on. Nymph rigs have been far more consistent.
Dry-fly opportunities have been limited. Midges are around, and there are short windows of surface activity on calmer days, but it hasn’t been predictable.
Overall, the Missouri River remains a strong winter choice. Plan around the wind, start later in the day, and keep your approach simple for the most reliable results.
Additional Resources:
- Sowbugs and Scuds For Fly Fishing the Missouri
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Tailwater Sowbug Jig
Red San Juan Worm
Dark Olive Spanish Perdigon
Tungsten Tailwater Sowbug
Black Zebra Midge
White Zonker
Olive Tailwater Tiny
Tailwater Sowbug
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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