Fishing Report, April 24

It has been a wild ride of a week with classic Montana mood swings in the weather. We started with a strong push of summer-like warmth that got the valley moving and spiked the early-season runoff. Then, right on cue, a cold front slammed the brakes on that spring fever, bringing freezing nights and wet snow back to the region. This late-season moisture was exactly what we needed, as it significantly bolstered the snowpack in the high country. Seeing the surrounding peaks get white again is a huge win for our late-summer water levels and river health. Now, we are finally settling into a much more stable spring pattern with clearer skies and manageable temperatures. The upcoming forecast looks excellent, with daytime highs trending back into the 60s and 70s.

 

Fishing Report, Whitefish

Flathead River: High & Dirty

Status: Blown Out | Flow: ~24,200 CFS | Temp: 40°F

The recent surge has arrived in full force, and with the latest snow and rain, the river is pushing significant volume. At 24,200 CFS, the main stem is off the table for the next few days while the system flushes.

  • The Reality: Visibility is poor as the forks dump runoff into the system. It’s best to let the river settle and focus your energy on the local lakes where clarity remains excellent.

  • The Long View: We are still stacking snow in the high country, which is exactly what we want for a sustained summer season. We anticipate a stabilizing window sometime next week as temperatures level out.

Fishing Report, Kalispell

Fishing Report, KalispellKalispell Stillwater: The Spring Pivot

When the river is a no-go, the lakes around Kalispell are the clear winners. Conditions are prime, and the fish are looking for a reason to eat in the warming littoral zones.

Pro Tips for Spring Stillwater Success

  • The “Slow & Low” Strategy: Early spring stillwater is a game of patience. Use an Indicator Rig with a Balanced Leech (olive or black) as your lead and a Chironomid Nymph as your dropper.

  • Find the Warmth: A temperature change of even two degrees is massive right now. Focus on northern shorelines that receive the most direct southern sun exposure throughout the afternoon.

  • The Hang: Before you recast, let your flies hang vertically for 10 seconds. Trout often follow a moving fly and will only commit once it “stalls” and hangs in their face.

  • Master the Depth: Fish are often hugging the bottom in the spring. If you aren’t getting hits, adjust your indicator in 6-inch increments until you find the exact column where the fish are cruising.

Missouri River: Fishing Report

Missouri River Fishing ReportStatus: Excellent | Flow: ~3,500 CFS | Temp: 45°F

While the local freestones are pushing mud, the Missouri below Holter Dam remains the most stable game in the state. If you’re looking for clear water and consistent bugs, the Mo is it.

  • Nymphing (Solid & Consistent): This is the high-percentage play. Run a two-fly rig with a Sowbug or Scud as your lead and a BWO nymph or Zebra Midge as your trailer. Focus on the walking-speed water and soft inside seams.

  • Dry Fly Hunting: It is officially Mayfly season. While nymphing pays the bills, there are legitimate dry fly opportunities for those willing to hunt.

    • The Hatch: BWOs and Midges are coming off daily, usually peaking in the afternoon.

    • The Strategy: Scan the foam lines and glassy slicks for rising pods. Bring your “A-game” with long 12–15 foot leaders and a delicate delivery using Griffith’s Gnats or BWO Cripples.

  • Streamer Fishing: Swinging or stripping has been productive in the deeper, slower water and fast water too. Flashy patterns have been my go to lately. Fast flash will get’m

Guided Trips

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3/4 Day: $450 | Full Day: $650

Only 1 week left to take advantage of our Spring Special! Whether you are a brand new angler, looking for a great day for the family, or a seasoned pro, we have you covered.

Don’t let the spring runoff keep you at home. At Montana Fishing Guides, we provide top-notch customer service from the first call to the final handshake. Whether you want to technical-fish the Missouri or master the spring stillwater game, we have the gear and the expertise to make it happen.

Our phone is on 24/7—call 406-233-9001 to book your next fun day on the water!