August on the spring creeks is not the most desirable time to fish them. Sure, the number of anglers is less than in the peak of the PMDs hatches in late June and early July, but less hatches also means less rising trout. And, unless you know the creeks really well---as well as our guides---the fishing on the creeks takes some patience.
Things on the spring creeks are slowing down for sure as the PMD hatches are dwindling. Terrestrial fishing is OK with beetles and ants for those anglers willing to stick with it. Make sure to have patterns from size 18-24 and also imitations of the nymph, emerger, cripple, dun and spinner as the trout are very selective. Nymphing midge larva and sow bugs in the morning always produces. The two main creeks we fish are Armstrong's and DePuy's spring creeks near Livingston and Bozeman, Montana. These creeks are private and do require a rod fee, but, if you enjoy sight-fishing to rising or shallow water feeding trout, the spring creeks are an exciting place to get in some sight-fishing to trout on small waters.
If you are looking for some places to fish this spring near Bozeman or Big Sky that offer consistency when some of the larger rivers do not, consider the spring creeks. Additionally, the creeks can also offer a respite from the windy conditions that can be prevalent during March and April. The consistent flow of the spring creeks mean water temps are the most conducive to find feeding trout when other rivers and creeks may fluctuate on a daily basis. The consistent water temps produce a higher metabolism in spring creek fish than trout in other waters and gives anglers a better chance to hook up.
As a rule we use yarn indicators on spring creeks – generally custom cut to be just big enough to not sink. These indicators allow you to detect very subtle disturbances resulting in more hookups. Most trout are going to be selective and eating midge pupa or emergers or mayfly nymphs, emergers, or dries if you are lucky. The exact fly isn't always key, but something that is tied well, tied sparsely, and in the right size is more important than making sure you have "that one hot pattern." Where you fish and your presentation is much more important than changing out lots of flies.
Visit Our Shop for These Top Spring Creek Flies Right Now:
Black beetles in sizes 16-22
Hoppers in sizes 10-12
Cinnamon ant in size 16-22
PMD Captive Dun in size 16-22
PMD Sparkle Dun in size 16-22
Para Adams in size 16-22
Juju Baetis size 22
Wondernymphs in black in sizes 18-22
Beadhead Zebra midge, black or red, size 22
Mole Midge size 20
Scuds, sowbugs like Ray Charles in natural or pink in sizes 18-22
Midge larva in red or purple in size 20-22
The Month Ahead:
Terrestrials will rule the roost in late August and September. Tricos are also important in the early morning, especially at the MZ ranch. Spring creeks are tough but always have cold water and are a nice mid summer option - the trout are always there and feeding but they aren't as reckless as they were during the PMD hatch so you have to earn each one.
Long Term Fishing Forecast:
The spring creeks are always a safe although technical option. Water temps are always cold even on the hottest days and the fish are loaded in the creeks. In the fall some of the weeds die back and the baetis hatch can be awesome in October, especially with some cloud cover.