When the runoff descends upon the Montana rivers across the Treasure State, the Missouri River moves to the top of the list for the region’s fly fishing guides. The tailwater fishery provides consistent fishing below Holter Dam even as water releases increase through May and June.
Rising waters in the Missouri River tributaries push the seasonal Rainbow Trout populations bacj into the mainstem of the river. Increasing water temperatures and sediment loads bring an abundance of nutrients to the river and the trout respond accordingly, feeding subsurface with reckless abandon.
Floating in May is the best way to experience the legendary Craig, Montana fly fishing opportunities on this stretch of the Missouri River.
Blue-winged olive and March Brown mayflies are abundant on cloudy days in early May. Caddis arrive to the lower river near Cascade and Pelican Point with warm weather in late May. Missouri River dry fly fishing opportunities in May are generally sparse as river levels increase.
Nymph fishing along drop-offs and ledges along the insides of the river’s gentle meanders becomes a staple of high-water Missouri River fly fishing in May. Long leaders with heavy tippets and added weight are best fished with 9 ½’ or 10’ fly rods at this time. Heavy rigs with San Juan Worm and Sowbug fly variations are standard.
Dry fly and streamer fishing is less consistent in May due to fluctuating water levels and conditions.
A perennial favorite Montana fly fishing trip for the friends and clients of Fins and Feathers. Expect changing conditions almost daily as water levels vary dramatically throughout the month. With over 23 years of Montana fly fishing guide experience, our experts have seen it all and have mastered the nuances of high-water fly fishing tactics on the Missouri River.
Join our experienced staff of Bozeman fly fishing guides on these unique trips. The fly fishing Montana experience continues on the Missouri River through the peak of runoff.
Missouri River fly fishing trips with Fins and Feathers can be secured online, via e-mail, or by calling us at 1-406-468-5019. Reach out to our team of experts for help with customizing a Montana fishing trip itinerary for your group of anglers.
Please note that lodging is limited near the river and our calendar fills in quickly, so advanced reservations are highly recommended.