Missoula Fly Fishing in May
Runoff season hits western Montana hard in late April and early May. The exact timing varies yearly based on winter snowpack and spring temperatures. Although there are a few pockets of water that remain fishable near Missoula in May, it takes some serious effort, and conditions can be dangerous in high water, regardless of water clarity.
The Missouri River becomes the river of choice for most Missoula anglers in May as streamflow and water clarity remain relatively stable.
May Highlights
- The Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch carries over from late April, making for a few days of exceptional dry fly fishing when river levels remain stable on the Clark Fork and Blackfoot rivers.
- Nymph fishing the Missouri River near Craig, Montana, is at its best during late April and through May when hatches tend to be sparse in the higher, stable flows.
Related Articles From The Montana Fly Fishing Blog
Category: Bozeman Fly Fishing Trip Planning
Montana Fly Fishing the Early Season on the Missouri River
Post Date: 09/27/2024
Prime season for fly fishing near Craig, Montana, on the Missouri River kicks into gear around April 15 and runs through early July. The season begins with blanket hatches of...
Read Article
Category: Bozeman Fly Fishing Trip Planning
When Is the Best Time to Fly Fish in Montana? A Complete Seasonal Guide
Post Date: 11/19/2025
Plan your Bozeman fly fishing trip around the best times of the year when water conditions, hatches, and trout activity are at their peaks to get the most out of...
Read Article