Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 10/13/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Missouri River has been consistent. Flows are steady, clarity is good, and cooler weather has helped keep things consistent across most of the river. Fish have been active through the middle of the day, and anglers are finding steady fishing from the dam down through Craig.
Nymphing has been the most productive way to stay in fish. Sowbugs, worms, and smaller perdigons have all been working well. Fishing these rigs deep through the main runs and softer seams has been reliable, especially when the sun is high and fish are holding tight to the bottom.
Streamer fishing has started to pick up with the cooler weather and thinning weeds. It’s been day to day, but anglers are moving fish on sparkle minnows, thin mints, and small sculpin-style flies when the light is low or clouds roll in.
Dry fly fishing has been slow. There are still a few tricos and small mayflies around, but not enough to plan your day around. Keep a few small parachutes or emergers handy for those rare calm mornings when fish are rising.
Overall, the Missouri River is in good shape and fishing steady. Nymph rigs will get you the most consistent action, but streamer fishing has been improving each week as fall continues to settle in. With light pressure and good weather ahead, now’s a great time to spend a day on the Mo.
Additional Resources:
- Sowbugs and Scuds For Fly Fishing the Missouri in October
- Bozeman Fly Fishing in October
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Olive Tailwater Tiny
Tungsten Tailwater Sowbug
Tailwater Sowbug Jig
Dark Olive Spanish Perdigon
Black Zebra Midge
Red San Juan Worm
Tailwater Sowbug
White Zonker
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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