Missoula Fishing Report
Beat The Heat
Get out early if you want to throw a dry fly. The deep fast nymph runs are still giving up fish during the middle of the day. Lots of white fish when you play that game. The fish have been rather picky this week in some spots, as they are fighting the heat just as the rest of us. There are loads of Golden Stones hatching in and around Missoula, and the fish seem to really be digging PMDs and Yellow Sallies. Green Drakes have also been a hit over the past week or two. As for evening fishing, the Caddis are taking over.
Water levels are dropping, temperatures are rising. Please be conscientious of the fish and their health while you’re out on the water. Play fish fast, use heavy tippet, and get out early or late.
The Bitterroot River: Plenty of Golden Stones still swarming around, stick to a smaller pattern with a low wing. PMDs in the morning, Caddis in the evening.
The Blackfoot River: Bigger Goldens, attractor patterns, as well as Yellow Sallies. If you’re looking to get into some bigger fish, try to get on the water early. Streamers can still be effective in the mornings and in the evenings.
The Clark Fork River: Upper Clark Fork is getting weedy and low. Mid and Lower are still producing fish on PMDs and Goldens, but the Clark really shines during the evening Caddis hatch (last two hours of light).
Rock Creek: Very wadable right now, which attracts the summer crowds. Though the creek is still producing the most consistent dry fly fishing route. (Goldens, PMDs, Caddis)