The Return of the Streamer Bite

September 19, 2025

Stable and sunny conditions, followed by cooler and crisp nights, have been the early September pattern. Those cooler evenings are helping the river shape up for fall. We are beginning to see trout exhibit some of that classic autumn behavior. Daytime temps will range from 71°F-84°F over the next week. Flows are approximately 3,400 CFS with water temperatures out of the dam at 64°F. 

Dry fly anglers are eagerly awaiting the pseudo hatch. Action was slower this week, although some good fish were picked off in side channels. Ants, the occasional hopper and some small spinners were the ticket this week. With better pseudo hatches will come more opportunities.  

Changing patterns seems to be the name of the game. Nymphing can be good, with the majority of the action happening in the mornings. Wire worms, unweighted sow bugs, zebra midges, rainbow warriors and even some leech patterns have been taking fish. Sunnier days, fish it deep. But don't be afraid to throw it shallow and at the bank on cloudier days.

Streamer fishing is beginning to heat up. Anglers who take advantage of cloud cover & overcast conditions are being rewarded with aggressive strikes. The action seems to dry up during sunnier spells. Sink tips with 1x tippet and a thin mint, kreelex or sparkle minnow have been getting it done. As the water temps continue to drop, we anticipate the streamer bite to pick up even more.  

Drop us a line, and we'll see you soon at the ranch!

Missouri River Ranch

info@missouririverranch.com

406-206-6989