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Missouri River Winter Fly Fishing Trips

black and white dog sitting on drift boat seat on missouri river

Winter Fly Fishing Trips on Montana’s Missouri River

When it’s good, it’s good. Probably the best way to summarize winter fly fishing trips on the Missouri River near Craig, MT. When the weather is good, boat ramps are good, and when water temps are good, the fishing is good.

One of my favorite stories to tell on the boat is of a great multi-day overnight trip myself and some friends had on the Missouri River. The streamer fishing was great, wind was mild, and the sunny skies kept a smile glued on to everyone’s face. And it was early January. The next week it was -20 degrees.

What to Expect

Winter weather is fickle and the winter fly fishing on the Missouri River is no different. Trip plans can’t be hatched too far in advance but every once in awhile the fishing gods play along and let us get out on the ‘Mo mid-winter.

The streamer fishing and trout spey can be great with small flashy flies. Midge hatches can also happen on warmer, sunnier days bringing a fish or two up to rise. The nymphing with bright shiny flies (think pink), fished through deeper slower runs can also be effective this time of year. If the boat ramps are ice-free and the wind is down it can be game on.

If your are in Bozeman, MT or Helena, MT in the winter and need a fly fishing fix, the Missouri River is one of your best options. Our Missouri River fly fishing guides fish the river year-round and would be happy to take you out too. Check out our Winter/Spring Guide Trip Specials to learn more.

Notes From Downstream

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More Information on Fly Fishing Guides, Trips, & Outfitting

Top 5 Rivers to Fly Fish in Bozeman, MT

Top 5 Rivers to Fly Fish in Bozeman, MT

5 Best Fly Fishing Rivers in Bozeman, Montana Fly fishing in Bozeman, MT is a world-class experience that brings anglers from all over the country and beyond to fly fish the many blue ribbon rivers surrounding town. With the headwaters of the Missouri River to the...

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It is officially fly fishing season again in Montana and our guides are ready for what is shaping up to be another great season. We have had a busy winter with our Winter & Spring Special Trips going out on the Paradise Valley Spring Creeks near Bozeman, MT and the Missouri River near Craig, MT. 

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We offer full-day and half-day trips, as well as float and wade fishing options, that cater to seasoned and beginner anglers alike. Book your fly fishing trip with our professional guides.

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Our custom Montana fly fishing trips are the best way to start or build on your Montana fly fishing journey. Enjoy unique trip offerings and Montana’s best rivers with our Montana fly fishing guides.

Angler couple enjoying winter fly fishing

Winter and Spring Specials

Take advantage of special rates on your spring and winter fly fishing trips in Montana. Enjoy the same great fly fishing, world-class rivers, and professional guides all year long.

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Enjoy custom fly fishing outfitting and expert guiding across Montana and Yellowstone National Park. Learn more about all of our guided Montana fly fishing trips.

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