Cooler Weather & Technical Dry Fly Fishing
- seth9021
- Jul 17
- 1 min read
July 17, 2025
The Missouri River received some much needed rain this week, temporarily lowering river temps to 58°F and providing excellent fishing! Brighter, sunnier days produced excellent dry fly opportunities with thick hatches of tricos and caddis. Overcast days made for good nymphing and consistent action. Daily highs will range from 79°F-88°F. River vegetation is prevalent this year, so be sure to clear your flies and get right back into the mix. As of this report, flows are 4,200 CFS with water temperatures out of the dam at 64°F.
Technical dry fly fishing continues to be the highlight of July. Outstanding trico spinner falls have fish up in great numbers, providing challenging targets. Small spinner patterns have done well, as have CDC caddis towards the tail end of the hatch. Longer leaders and excellent drifts are necessary this time of year. Prospecting with hoppers, ants and caddis have also produced.
Nymphing continues to be solid but also the most likely way to connect with whitefish and weeds. Rainbow warriors, frenchies, weight flies and worm patterns have all taken fish this week. A number of our anglers have reported success mending zirdle patterns off of likely structure.Â
Streamer fishing is still not recommended, but a few of our anglers stuck with it and landed some beautiful trout this week.Â
Drop us a line, and we'll see you soon at the ranch!
406-206-6989