Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 04/17/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Missouri River is in a good place right now, especially around Craig. Flows have been steady and the river is clear, which has fish set up in predictable water.
Dry fly fishing has been picking up. Midges are still the main focus, with BWOs showing more consistently on the right afternoons. Fish are feeding in pods, and when they’re up, it’s more about presentation than fly choice.
Fish are holding in the slower flats and longer runs, with a lot of them grouped up. Once you find fish, it’s worth staying on them. It’s not a river where moving a lot helps right now.
Nymphing has been the most consistent approach. Sow bugs and scuds are still doing most of the work, with small midges and baetis nymphs underneath. Pink, red, and natural tones have all been producing. Getting your depth right has been the difference. If you’re not near the bottom, adjust before changing flies.
Streamer fishing has been slower and not something to build a day around.
The Missouri is fishing well. Find your fish, get your depth right, and stay on them.
Additional Resources:
- Sowbugs and Scuds For Fly Fishing the Missouri
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In April
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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