Another summer on the Big Hole has flown by. Big game archery season will open this weekend, and we are looking forward to some cooler September weather. The hoot owl restrictions on the Big Hole River lifted last Friday, so the entire river is now open to fishing under normal regulations. The river can be floated from Jerry Creek down, but it is skinny across most of the riffles.
Brown trout from the Beartrap Canyon!
With cooling water temps, we have had some success using small buggers, stripped slowly from the drop offs and across the riffles. Tricos are still out, but hatching a little later in the morning. Hoppers (pink has been our best) and ants continue to be productive in the afternoon. Additionally, small bead head nymphs in black and/or olive dropped underneath a hopper or chubby have worked when the dry fly bite slows down mid-day.
We will be down in Dillon this coming Labor Day Weekend to support the Dillon Jaycess with the annual “Montanas Biggest Weekend” PRCA Rodeo. No concert this year, but there should be plenty of fun!