Fishing Report, April 29

The weather has been decidedly wintery since our last report, with cold nights and snow showers keeping things brisk across the valley. Despite the chill, the rivers have actually settled into great shape for the moment. This late-season moisture continues to bolster our mountain snowpack, which is a massive win for our water levels later this summer. We are looking at a beautiful shift in the forecast, however; expect plenty of sun and highs climbing toward 74°F by the weekend. While this warmth is welcome, it will likely trigger the next big push of runoff, so the time to get on the water is right now.

Fishing Report, April 29

Fishing Report, Whitefish

Flathead River: The Window is Open

Fishing Report, WhitefishStatus: In Shape & Dropping | Flow: 17,800 CFS | Temp: 44°F

The Flathead has cleared up beautifully and is currently in great fishing shape. Flows have receded to 17,800 CFS, and we expect it to continue dropping for another day or so before the upcoming warm up likely causes it to blow out again.

  • The Strategy: With water temps peaking at 44°F on sunny days, the fish are active and looking for calories. Focus on the soft edges and inside seams.

  • The Reality: This is a “strike while the iron is hot” situation. Enjoy the clarity and dropping flows today, as the 70-degree weekend forecast will almost certainly put the river back into a runoff state by early next week.

Fishing Report, Kalispell

Kalispell Stillwater: Pro Tips for Success

Fishing Report, KalispellWhen the river eventually takes its next hiatus, the local lakes remain the clear winners for clarity and active fish.

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

  • The “Slow & Low” Strategy: Early spring is a game of patience. Use an Indicator Rig with a Balanced Leech and a Chironomid Nymph dropper.

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

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

Missouri River, Fishing Report

Missouri River: Tailwater Consistency

Status: Great | Flow: 3,200 CFS | Temp: 47°F

Missouri River, Fishing ReportWhile the freestones prepare for their next surge, the Missouri remains the most reliable game in the state. Conditions are fantastic, and the bug activity is responding well to the afternoon sun.

  • Nymphing: Solid and consistent. A two-fly rig with a Sowbug or Scud lead and a BWO nymph or Green Maching trailer is the high-percentage play. Toilet bowls….

  • The Hatch: BWOs and Midges are the main events. We are seeing steady hatches in the afternoons, especially when the wind stays down.

  • Streamer Fishing: The bite has been good lately. Flashy patterns are my go-to right now; a fast flash retrieve in both deep slots and faster water has been triggering aggressive strikes.

Guided Trips

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

Only a day 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!