Missouri River Fishing Report 11.2.26

Based on Headhunters Fly Shop’s report by Mark Raisler

The Missouri River is running at about 2,800 cfs, with low, wadeable flows. Water temperatures have dropped below 50.6°F and are still falling. November insect activity includes BWOs and midges, with some tan caddis; October Caddis may occasionally draw interest when skittered across the water.

For nymphing, try short, shallow rigs, generally 0–2 feet deep. A true nymph setup may make it easier to get a clean drift than a dry-dropper rig. Deeper morning presentations can also produce, especially in the center of the river; a worm or sow pattern paired with a BWO is one suggested option. Very shallow, unweighted rigs are worth trying too.

Swing anglers can look to soft hackles and other trout-spey patterns. Dry-fly action tends to be best in the latter part of the day, with BWOs and midges bringing fish up; try a visible cripple, emerger, or dun. For streamer fishing, low light, cloudy skies, and calm winds have been favorable, with small black leeches a recent choice.

“We love November.”

“Dry Fly anglers enjoying the last half of the day.”

Shop, location, and local services: Headhunters Fly Shop is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the winter season, offering shuttles, guide trips, lodging information, and trout-spey gear and flies.

Headhunters L.L.C.
145 Bridge Street, Craig, MT 59648
Located on I-15, halfway between Great Falls and Helena, at Exit 234.

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