Missouri River Fishing Report

Date: 07/23/2026

Posted by: Toby Swank

Current Conditions

The Missouri River is fishing well and has been one of the more dependable rivers in the state. If you're making the drive to Craig, it's worth getting an early start. The best dry fly fishing has been during the morning trico spinner falls, with caddis keeping fish looking up again toward evening.

If fish aren't rising, don't overthink it. A sowbug, frenchie, zebra midge, or split case PMD will get the job done. A wire worm is still worth having tied on early in the day, especially before the morning hatch gets going. Once fish start feeding on the surface, it's usually better to switch than keep forcing a nymph rig.

There have been plenty of fish eating dries, but presentation matters more than the pattern. Long drifts and good casts will catch more fish than digging through your fly box looking for the next fly.

The Missouri is fishing the way you'd expect this time of year. Get there early, watch for rising fish, and let what the trout are doing decide whether you fish on top or underneath.

Additional Resources:

 - The Best Bozeman Fly Fishing in July

Stream Flows

View stream flow graph on USGS

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