The new year has come, and we’re relieved to finally see some snowpack in the mountains. It’s been an unseasonably warm winter here in Missoula, but the last few weeks have brought us some much needed relief from dry and warm conditions. Usually, we find ourselves inside at the vise or out ice fishing at this point. but the rivers are wide open and there’s nearly no shelf ice, so we’ve been enjoying some wonderfully productive fly fishing this winter.

Dry-fly opportunities are pretty limited. This time of year most all we’ll see are midges, which can be an effort to fish being mostly #20-#24 patterns. But with the unseasonable warmth we may see some early hatches this year, though that is yet to be seen.

Nymphing remains the most dependable approach. Indicator and tightline methods are both producing, provided you’re getting down into the slower, deeper runs where fish are holding for the winter. Stonefly patterns, small mayfly nymphs, beadheads, PTs, perdigons, and Rubber Legs continue to do the heavy lifting. The majority of fish have moved into the main river’s winter lies—deep runs, soft buckets, and drop-offs.

Streamer fishing is very effective, though at a slower winter pace. As trout settle into their colder-water rhythm, they’ll still eat a well-presented streamer, but they generally prefer a slower retrieve and a deeper presentation. Modest-sized sculpin and bugger patterns remain solid choices, especially darker patterns on overcast days. Swinging through entire runs with a heavy sinking tip has been proving successful even as the temps drop. Even with the reduced winter metabolism, a heavier streamer swung or drifted low and slow can still move a fish looking to bulk back up after the spawn.

Bundle up, slow your pace, and focus on the deeper structure—winter fishing rewards patience and persistence. Bundle up and get out there while you still can!

Swing by the shop for any advice, bugs, or tying material you might need in order to get on some fish. We'll be here!