Fishing everywhere has been good to great, with the exception of the Yellowstone, which is days away from clearing. When the Stone goes green, you want to be there. The fishing is so good the first few weeks after the river clears, that you will not find me anywhere else. Anyway, sorry this is so late. I cannot tell you how many times I cursed the guy that wrote a fishing report, and did not keep it current. Well, I am now guilty of that exact thing. My deepest apologies. Here you go:
YELLOWSTONE RIVER: 14,400 CFS at Livingston, MT
Days away... A few hearty souls (myself included) will get on this river this weekend. The magic number for me is 12k. Streamers and nymphs, whatever you like, and throw them on heavy tippet, because all the willows will still be underwater. This is as good as the Yellowstone gets, lots of big fish, and good consistent fishing all day, each day. Make sure you are with someone that can row really well.
MADISON RIVER: 1,830 CFS at Kirby Ranch
Fished the Madison today, had great fishing. Drifting streamers and various nymphs (surprise), but did see some risers. We had good luck on olive streamers, various sculpin patterns, little yellow sally nymphs, caddis pupa and PMD nymphs. A handful of fish were up eating caddis, but they were little fish. Fished all day, and had the river to ourselves.
GALLATIN RIVER: 2,060 CFS at Gallatin Gateway, MT
The Gallatin has just come in to shape, and is fishing well. Nymphing with rubber legs, small buggers, and various beads has been very productive. The Gallatin fish are still eating some worms as well. River is still quite full, but some risers can be found if you know where to look.
MISSOURI RIVER: 9,270 CFS below Holter Dam
Great fishing up here right now. Caddis, PMD's in every shape and form. The nymphing is still spectacular, but the dry fly thing is where it is at.
JEFFERSON RIVER: 3,060 CFS at Silver Star, MT
The Jeff is still fishing very well, if you know where to go. The water is a tad warmer than expected for as much water is moving through it, but the fish are getting after it. The reports I have heard, are varying as far as what the fish are eating. I know what they are eating for me, and you will not find those flies listed here, or anywhere else.
