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DIY Fishing
Headhunters has become the spot for DIY anglers to get information, flies and shuttles. Our staff fishes every day, and they're more than glad to tell you how they've been doing, what they've been using and where to go. You'll also pick up tips from the community of anglers always present at Headhunters.
Wade Fishing
Many do-it-yourself anglers want to wade fish. Whether you don't own a boat, are by yourself, or just enjoy stalking the banks, wade fishing is a great way to enjoy the Missouri River. Unfortunately, conditions are not always prime for successful wade fishing. Flows over 6000cfs hurt in two ways. First, there are very few productive wade areas at these flows. Second, Missouri trout don't feed on the surface during these higher flows. If you're planning on a wade trip, your best bet is to plan it after July 15. By then, flows are low enough to wade in most spots, and most fish have moved into the shallows to feed on top.
Many do-it-yourself anglers want to wade fish. Whether you don't own a boat, are by yourself, or just enjoy stalking the banks, wade fishing is a great way to enjoy the Missouri River. Unfortunately, conditions are not always prime for successful wade fishing. Flows over 6000cfs hurt in two ways. First, there are very few productive wade areas at these flows. Second, Missouri trout don't feed on the surface during these higher flows. If you're planning on a wade trip, your best bet is to plan it after July 15. By then, flows are low enough to wade in most spots, and most fish have moved into the shallows to feed on top.
Rental Boats
Renting a drift boat can be an excellent choice for groups of DIY anglers. The Missouri is an easy river to row, and most anglers use a boat as transportation to their favorite wade fishing spots. Drift boats have a maximum capacity of 3 (1 rower, 2 anglers), so plan your group accordingly. Headhunters has several rental boats available, but they should be booked in advance. We trailer and launch your boat, as well as pick it up at the end of the day. Shuttle of your vehicle is included.Camping
The Missouri River has limited camping available. Most Fishing Access Sites (FAS) have between 1 and 8 sites available. First come, first serve is the rule. Reservations are not taken. Our favorite camping areas are at Holter Dam, Craig FAS, Mid Canon FAS, and Prewett Creek FAS.Images from our customers
Listen and Learn
The Missouri is a great river, but not necessarily an easy one. Our trout can be fussy. They can break 4X with the turn of a head. They'll refuse 10 offerings then eat a Parachute Adams like they've been waiting for it all day. You need to learn the techniques successful anglers use to catch fish on the 'Mo. This applies to flies, of course, but also to rigging leaders, fly line choice, entomology and reading water. Sometimes, stopping and watching successful anglers is time well spent. If you invest the time to learn how to catch fish on the Missouri, you will be rewarded.
The Missouri is a great river, but not necessarily an easy one. Our trout can be fussy. They can break 4X with the turn of a head. They'll refuse 10 offerings then eat a Parachute Adams like they've been waiting for it all day. You need to learn the techniques successful anglers use to catch fish on the 'Mo. This applies to flies, of course, but also to rigging leaders, fly line choice, entomology and reading water. Sometimes, stopping and watching successful anglers is time well spent. If you invest the time to learn how to catch fish on the Missouri, you will be rewarded.
Licenses
You can get your fishing license at Headhunters, or online at Montana's FWP website.- 2 day $25
- 4 day $40
- 10 day $53.50
- Season $70