This is a brief synopsis of fishing conditions and reports from select waters across the state. For more detailed information, contact a fly shop, bait store, or boat marina for the particular water. For detailed information on river flows, visit: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mt/nwis/current?type=flow
What a difference some rain can make. With much heavier precipitation than in the past few years at this time, the spring rain and even snow of the last few weeks has been welcome across the state. Plants are lush with new growth, small streams are flowing bank-full, and just keeping up with mowing the lawn is difficult. Although rain and snow now mean better fishing conditions later into the summer, the fishing can be difficult in the immediate future. Off-color or muddy water requires a slow presentation, and often a dark colored lure or fly, and fishing with live bait can offer a distinct advantage. Safety is a concern as well, as small streams and creeks can be treacherous during high water. During these difficult times, many anglers shift their focus to lakes and reservoirs, or the tailwater fisheries below the dams on larger rivers where the waters still run clear. And don’t forget your insect repellant- the same water that makes the farmers and ranchers happy also gives those pesky mosquitoes lots of new places to lay their eggs.
Some of the best fishing bets right now:
Bighorn River – The usual assortment of nymphs will get the job done, and the water will be clear and cold.
Blackfoot River – A little warm weather this weekend could really have the salmonflies going strong.
Canyon Ferry Lake – The walleye bite continues on, and last weekends warm weather seemed to trigger the carp to begin moving into shallow waters, making good targets for anglers or bowfishers.
Fort Peck Lake – Most of the reservoir is producing fish very steadily, including walleyes, northern pike, lake trout, and smallmouth bass.
Holter Reservoir – Trolling for rainbows has been the main attraction, with some perch and walleyes also being caught.
Madison River – Despite the rains, the flows on the Madison, especially the upper river have been steady. Fishing is good.
Marias River – If you enjoy a meal of catfish, head for the lower Marias. Now is the time to catch a few.
Missouri River – the upper river, below Holter dam has been fishing very well lately. Dry fly fishing is a nice bonus this time of year.
Tiber Reservoir – Could be a busy place with a walleye tournament this weekend, but fishing for northern pike and walleyes has been good.
Yellowstone National Park Waters – Waters open to fishing on the west side of the park have had good insect hatches, and decent fishing. Be sure to check Park fishing regulations.
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