River Wire Blog

At this time of year, every winter has been a "long winter".  By Montana standards, this winter has been mild.  We've had a few cold days and a few warm days.  Mostly, we've had a lot of inbetween.  Perhaps that's about to change.  High temperatures will reach into the mid-to-upper 40's for several days to come.  It will almost feel like, well, spring.  The steady dose of vitamin D provided by the inspiring sun is certain to pick up your spirits.  Will it pick up the fishing?

Spring is still a few weeks off technically and a couple of months away by normal western standards.  Be happy.  There's still some time to spread some snow in the mountains.  We need it.  Fish like water.  Low water and good wading conditions are only good for the fishermen. 

For now, instead of fishing for ling and walleye in the Missouri, you might consider carrying some trout flies - midge dries for the occasional rising trout (and whitefish) and attractor nymphs for the normal subsurface trout.  Don't worry, pink and ugly will be replaced by stuff that trout normally have in their diet during the real fly fishing season.  Catching trout is always fun, but it's nice to do it with flies that don't hurt your eyes. 

If you're not certain that it's still winter, step into the water and feel the chill of 33 degree water - just above freezing.  Imagine how the fish feel.  And, the bugs aren't quite ready yet either.  Only midges are interested in seeing what's going on.  They have a small window of opportunity during the warmer midday sun.  Blue wings provide more enticement to the sleepy trout and need water temps in the 40's.  It's not that far away, but it may seem like an eternity.

For those who can go (or dream about it), tarpon, permit, and bonefish provide warmer discussions.  We don't eat the fish we catch, but if you must, the Missouri's walleye and ling provide tasty entre's. 

The Missouri is still sleeping.  It's anglers are not.  You'll see some people on the river especially on the weekends.