Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 12/15/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Missouri River continues to be one of the most reliable winter fisheries in Montana. Recent mild weather has kept the river open and fishable, and the best fishing has been happening from late morning into the afternoon. As a tailwater, conditions have been more stable here than on freestone rivers closer to Bozeman.
Nymphing is the main focus right now. Scuds, sowbugs, zebra midges, and small perdigons have all been producing when fished close to the bottom. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X is a simple, effective setup. Depth has mattered more than fly choice, so adjusting weight until you’re in the zone is key.
Fish have been holding in deeper water where the current stays consistent. Taking your time in those areas has been more effective than moving around quickly. This is a river that rewards patience in the winter.
Streamer fishing can still produce during warmer afternoons, but it’s more of a secondary option. Smaller leech and sculpin-style patterns have moved a few fish, though nymphing has been far more consistent.
Dry-fly fishing has been limited. Midges are present on mild afternoons, but rising fish have been sporadic and not something to plan around.
Overall, the Missouri River remains a strong winter option. Fish the warmest part of the day, keep things simple, and focus on getting your nymphs down where fish are holding.
Additional Resources:
- Sowbugs and Scuds For Fly Fishing the Missouri
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Tailwater Sowbug Jig
Dark Olive Spanish Perdigon
Tungsten Tailwater Sowbug
Black Zebra Midge
White Zonker
Olive Tailwater Tiny
Red San Juan Worm
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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