Montana Fishing Reports

We are now in mid summer fishing mode here in Southwest Montana. We have had several early heat waves that have resulted in an early runoff and rivers are lower than average for this time of year. With lower levels some of the larger rivers experience elevated water temps in the late afternoon and are under "hoot owl" restrictions to encourage anglers to get on and off early. A few fisheries that have extensive irrigation draws are also closed to protect trout. There is still good fishing to be had but be as a general rule it is a good idea to head out just after dawn and then wrap up in early afternoon to avoid stressing trout during the warmest water temps which tend to occur between 6 and 8pm. Make sure to pay attention to current fishing restrictions on the FWP website. Spring creeks and higher elevation mountain streams still have plenty of cold water. For the bigger valley rivers the best water temps are found in the mornings and early afternoons. Hatches are now waning with the exception of tricos on some waters and callibaetis mayflies on the lakes. Nocturnal golden stones are also out and about in early mornings. Trout are now focusing on terrestrials such as ants and hoppers as well.