The Great Falls Tribune reported today that much of Western Montana is headed into a low water season, but that Central Montana (the Missouri River area) is fairing much better. The only drainage complex in the state reporting near normal precipitation is the Smith-Judith-Musselshell drainage (just east of Craig), which is at 99%. Many of the drainage’s on the West side are in the 50-60% range. Southern Montana (Madison, Big Hole, Yellowstone, etc.) is somewhere in between. The good news as far as managers are concerned is that we’re coming off of 2 really strong recovery years that have refilled reservoirs and recharged groundwater systems. Conditions for anglers, ranchers and farmers in Central and Eastern Montana should be pretty good. Western Montana will need an above average precipitation this spring to bring precipitation levels closer to normal. (Read the full article)
What does this mean for Missouri River Anglers?
As we’ve been forecasting, 2010 should be a banner year on the Missouri. Fishing conditions will be better than the past two seasons, especially for wading anglers. Fish health and juvenile recruitment is phenomenal thanks to the recent back to back high water years. April, May and June should provide excellent and wadable conditions. Dry Fly fishing should last much longer this year. We may be headed into one of those all summer dry fly season like we saw in the early 2000’s.
Currently, bookings in May and early June are a little soft. It’s going to be good. Don’t miss it.
In the Meantime
Expect to see the Missouri’s flows drop some more in the coming weeks as managers hold back water in Canyon Ferry Reservoir. Low water means good winter/spring fishing.
Feb. on the Missouri
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