Fly Fishing Stream Conditions Report: Missouri River - Upper

This year: Flows at Holter Dam are holding steady, recently measured at 3,900 CFS, while water temperatures near the dam remain cold enough to keep the trout active and concentrated. If you are fishing downstream, look for the riffle water and faster stretches where trout are holding. In the morning, start with some trico action and look for small dries getting sipped on the surface. During the midday and afternoon, switch to terrestrials like a beetle or an ant. Don't be afraid to throw some damsels around as well, as fish are eating both the nymphs and dries. It is also big bug season, meaning crayfish, zirdles, and worms are on the menu. For those who prefer swinging flies on trout spey rods, active trout are eagerly chasing streamers. Try presenting a Kreelex Minnow or black leech patterns with a little flash to trigger aggressive strikes from quality fish.

Best time of day: All day

Prior years: August on the Upper Missouri River requires an early start to find the most active fish. Focus your efforts on moving water and riffle complexes where oxygen levels remain higher. Anglers can expect massive clouds of Trico spinners drifting over the pool and run surfaces. Achieving a completely drag-free drift is critical to fool these rising trout and avoid educating them. Additionally, terrestrial patterns like ants, beetles, and hoppers are highly effective when fished early in the day.