Missouri River Fishing Report
Date: 02/17/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Missouri River has been fishing good and has been one of the more consistent options lately. Mornings have still been cold, but the river has responded well once the day warms up. Wind has shown up in the afternoons, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast before making the drive.
Late morning through mid-afternoon has been the best window. Once the sun gets up and water temperatures bump slightly, fish have been active and willing to eat.
Nymphing has been productive. A sow bug or scud paired with a zebra midge or small baetis nymph has been working. A pat’s rubberlegs can still be part of the mix, especially in slightly deeper buckets. Fish have been holding in softer seams and moderate depth. Clean drifts and proper depth have mattered more than changing patterns.
There have also been some baetis showing on the right days. When cloud cover lines up and the wind stays manageable, fish have come up in softer water. Small baetis dries and simple emergers have worked during those windows, but it has not been an all-day event.
Streamer fishing has been slower but can move fish on overcast days if fished low and methodically.
Overall, the Missouri is fishing well if you time it around the warmer part of the day and stay flexible. Watch for short dry fly windows, but expect your best consistency below the surface.
Additional Resources:
- Sowbugs and Scuds For Fly Fishing the Missouri
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Tailwater Sowbug Jig
Red San Juan Worm
White Zonker
Dark Olive Spanish Perdigon
Tungsten Tailwater Sowbug
Black Zebra Midge
Olive Tailwater Tiny
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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