Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 05/04/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Missouri River has been fishing well, but it’s more of a technical game with the recent weather and lower flows. Flows are stable and the water is clear, but colder temps and some wind have fish holding a little tighter.
Most fish are set up in slower flats and longer runs. They’re not moving far, so it’s more about staying on good water and getting a clean drift than covering a lot of ground.
Nymphing has been the most consistent approach. sow bugs, zebra midges, and small baetis nymphs have been producing, along with pink or tan perdigon-style flies. It’s a smaller bug game, and presentation matters more than anything. If you’re not occasionally ticking bottom, add weight before changing flies.
Dry fly fishing is still happening, but it’s more window-based. midges and blue winged olives are the main focus, and there are still some march browns around. When it lines up, fish will come up in softer water, but it hasn’t been all day.
Streamer fishing has been worth mixing in. White patterns have been a good place to start, and working through lighter baitfish colors has been moving fish.
The Missouri is fishing well, but it’s not a numbers game unless you’re dialed in. Slow down, focus on your drift, and stay on good water.
Additional Resources:
- Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide To May
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Black Zebra Midge
Gray Sprout Midge
Tailwater Sowbug
Tungsten Tailwater Sowbug
Tailwater Sowbug Jig
White Zonker
Red San Juan Worm
Olive Tailwater Tiny
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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