http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/ Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. Post fishing reports, ask for information, discuss this area... en Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:19:29 GMT vBulletin 30 http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/images/misc/flyfishing_red/rss.jpg http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/ http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322645-rainbow-gathering-2013-a.html Wed, 19 Jun 2013 04:51:03 GMT Looks like the Rainbow Gathering will again be in Jackson, MT again this year around the 1st part of July. Anyone looking to spend some peace and quiet in the Big Hole/Dillon/Butte area....sorry. It's going to be another circus again. ]]> Rocky Mountain Range long bow http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322645-rainbow-gathering-2013-a.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322549-grumpy-old-men-2013-hopper-search.html Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:49:08 GMT It has been a couple of years since my fishing buddy and I visited out west. We're thinking/planning/inquiring about a trip this year. The last time we visited Wyoming, we fished the Green and up the west side to Yellowstone. We had a great time with some personal bests and new species (cutthroat & grayling, also saw the homecoming parade in Pinedale).

This year, we would like to get into some good hopper fishing. The charts we've seen say Jun-Oct is hopper season. Right now, we're concentrating our planning on the North Platte (Six Mile Gap, Pickaroon areas). This is just based on some internet chat.

The questions are: Is the North Platte a good place to focus our efforts?
What's the best guess of prime time for hoppers? (we probably have about 2 weeks).

Thanks in advance and we're open to suggestions. Again, we'd just like to get into some good hopper action. ]]> Rocky Mountain Range roadkill1948 http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322549-grumpy-old-men-2013-hopper-search.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322528-afternoon-green-river.html Tue, 18 Jun 2013 02:04:52 GMT I got a chance to get out and do some fishing this afternoon and made a bee line to the Green below Fontenelle Reservoir seeing how the rivers here in town are high and muddy. Right off the bat I started hooking into fish, but the strange thing was that they were mostly in the 12-14" range which is really strange for down there. I had read an article in the Wyoming Game and Fish magazine a number of years ago and it said the reason that there were on small fish is that the Burbot were eating all the young fish. Now I'm wondering if Game and Fish has got a handle on the burbot. Here are a few of the fish I landed this afternoon:










I had this guy land on my sleeve, that was a first, I have never seen Cicada's below Fontenelle Reservoir before. They are pretty common below Flaming Gorge.
]]> Rocky Mountain Range mcnerney http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322528-afternoon-green-river.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322522-access-inquiry-about-south-platte-river.html Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:38:42 GMT Hello Everyone; hope the fishing has been good for all! Been going myself quite a bit since the temps warmed up (and before runoff, which is GREAT this year in CO). Fishing has been very consistent, and the trout look healthy and are displaying voracious appetites. Today I went down to the... Hello Everyone;

hope the fishing has been good for all! Been going myself quite a bit since the temps warmed up (and before runoff, which is GREAT this year in CO). Fishing has been very consistent, and the trout look healthy and are displaying voracious appetites.

Today I went down to the Platte, despite the low flows (~60cfs below Cheesman). Didn't bother with Cheesman, so I decided to go down from Deckers to see if maybe Horse and Brush Creeks were contributing any additional water.

Well, if any additional water was helping, it wasn't evident; the water was super skinny, and trout were holding in the deep runs. I decided to fish some dry action (Caddis, BWO), and immediately was rewarded with 6 great looking and sizable rainbows in about an hour. Afterwards, I waited out some good thunderstorms. I called it quits early, to give the fish a break, but also the weather wasn't getting any better.

OK, so to get to my question regarding access downstream, there's a particular spot that I am curious about that appears to be public, but may in fact, be on private property. The spot is about 5 miles downriver from Deckers, right at the junction of Highway 67 and South Platte River Road.
See on Google Maps: 39.308688, -105.197209 to Deckers, CO - Google Maps

It appears that there is public access strip immediately north of a fenceline (if you trun on imagery, you can clearly see it) of the private land immedately south, but there is a sign on the north side of the river that states it is private - yet, I've seen fishermen fishing there, about 500 feet upstream from the bridge.

I know this is a lot to ask, but if you've been there, you know it. Thanks if you know anything about it!!!

Tight Lines ]]> Rocky Mountain Range cgrphoto http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322522-access-inquiry-about-south-platte-river.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322492-fishing-july-around-livingston-montana.html Mon, 17 Jun 2013 19:59:03 GMT I will be in Livingston for several days during the last two weeks of July and would like to wade-fish near town. What can I expect? Will the water be muddy? Will the water be too fast for wading? Too warm? Any suggestions for access places? Any other thoughts will be welcomed. Thanks very... I will be in Livingston for several days during the last two weeks of July and would like to wade-fish near town. What can I expect? Will the water be muddy? Will the water be too fast for wading? Too warm? Any suggestions for access places? Any other thoughts will be welcomed. Thanks very much!!! ]]> Rocky Mountain Range ngatewd http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322492-fishing-july-around-livingston-montana.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322386-guide-positions-mt-co.html Sun, 16 Jun 2013 19:52:51 GMT Curious if anyone knows of or has any recommendations as to who may be looking for guides. I've guided for the past 10 years on and off, in Canada and the 'States. Looking to move on to either Montana, Colorado or possibly Oregon. ]]> Rocky Mountain Range onthehunt http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322386-guide-positions-mt-co.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322384-trip-livingston.html Sun, 16 Jun 2013 18:35:29 GMT I just discovered this forum (you guys seem great), and have searched the archives without luck for advice self-floating on the Yellowstone River from Livingston in mid July. If our plans workout, my wife would shop and such in Livingston while I fish, floating our 7' inflatable dinghy (normally used on our sailboat) down the Yellowstone and at the end of the day, she'd pick me up (say, 5 miles -or 5-6 hours of floating- downstream). No, can't afford a guided float trip.

My concerns are: What will the fishing be like in mid July? Muddy? Water too hot? Will access be available downstream from Livingston, and how will I know if I at days end in an accessible location to be picked up? And, is this another one of my bad idea (I've had a few, just ask my wife)?

Thanks for any and all advice. Need all the help I can get!

Ned ]]> Rocky Mountain Range ngatewd http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322384-trip-livingston.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322273-pike-8-9-wt.html Sat, 15 Jun 2013 06:53:09 GMT What's most used for pike fishing 8 or 9 wt, Ive read alot use 9 wts but I'd like to get people's opinions here that fish for them in Colorado.
I'm thinking of pairing up a 9wt redington crosswater or 8 wt crosswater over lined with a cabelas prestige premier 9/10wt reel
Thanks for any help ]]> Rocky Mountain Range stripers http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322273-pike-8-9-wt.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322161-anyone-missoula-care-take-newbie-fishing.html Thu, 13 Jun 2013 20:52:46 GMT Hi, not sure this is the best place to ask but I'm staying in Missoula tomorrow (14th) and Saturday and wondering if anyone would be willing to let me tag along fishing and maybe cast a line? Just want to learn and listen. Hoping for someone experienced who can talk about local fishing culture, history etc.

I'm willing to give you $40-80 (depending on how involved it is to get fishing). About me, I'm a male university student from the southwest, no experience fishing but I really want to try. I'm outdoorsy and willing to go in any weather. I've usually been told I'm reasonable company. Please let me know if you are interested. Thanks! ]]> Rocky Mountain Range lifeonthefly14 http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322161-anyone-missoula-care-take-newbie-fishing.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322125-going-into-yellowstone-park-watch-where-you-get-out-your-car.html Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:50:36 GMT "Dud artillery shells left above remote Yellowstone Park pass
Print Email
13 hours ago • Associated Press


JACKSON, Wyo. — An unknown number of dud artillery rounds litter the slopes above a remote pass inside Yellowstone National Park.

But there are no plans to find and safely detonate them or stop the avalanche control program that uses artillery shells to keep the pass open during the winter.

One National Park Service study estimates around 300 unexploded shells above Sylvan Pass on the east side of the park, but Yellowstone officials say no one knows the real number.

The Jackson Hole News & Guide says at least one artillery shell was found on the highway that goes through the pass.

Despite the danger, Yellowstone's proposed winter use plan would continue the practice of using artillery to keep the pass open over the winter. Public comment on the plan ends Monday."

Remember this from many years ago skiing at Steven's Pass in Washington State. End of winter you'd get snow build up where the Forest Service didn't want same (avalanche danger). Fellows had a truck mounted recoiless rifle and would 'shell' the snow pack.

After the first BOOM everything stopped as the skiers did a WHOOA! :eek: ]]> Rocky Mountain Range fredaevans http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322125-going-into-yellowstone-park-watch-where-you-get-out-your-car.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322098-northern-montana.html Thu, 13 Jun 2013 01:39:54 GMT Anyone up in the Glacier / Kalispel area? Looks like I will be taking my father up into that area in early September and was looking for some advice. Not looking for your favorite place just looking for some general good karma info :D Thanks Everyone!!! Anyone up in the Glacier / Kalispel area? Looks like I will be taking my father up into that area in early September and was looking for some advice. Not looking for your favorite place just looking for some general good karma info :D

Thanks Everyone!!! ]]> Rocky Mountain Range lostnwilderness http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322098-northern-montana.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322078-helena-mt-6-20-6-22-a.html Wed, 12 Jun 2013 21:20:08 GMT A friend and myself are going to be road tripping out to Helena next week to pick up a new drift boat. I'm looking for recommendations for good tent camping areas, and if you would be so kind, some good areas to fish. Chances are, we'll take the new drift boat onto the Missouri one day, but we also would like to get into a nice walk and wade area too. Anywhere within reasonable driving distance of Helena is fine by us.

As far as the fishing goes, I don't need any hotspots, just general ideas. Point me in the right direction, and I'll figure out the rest. Don't hesitate to send me a private message. If you can't offer any fishing tips, camping advice is definitely needed because I think we're going to need to make some reservations ASAP.

Any specific hatches that we should be prepared for? Certain flies that work well for you on both the Missouri, and other local rivers around there will be welcome too. We're both making our first trip out west specifically to fish so any help is welcome.

Thanks ]]> Rocky Mountain Range ted4887 http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322078-helena-mt-6-20-6-22-a.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322048-road-trip-montana-august.html Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:40:58 GMT This August I will be driving down to Missoula MT for a two week vacation with my brother (a fly fisher) and maybe up to three friends (1 fisher, 2 non fishers). Originally the plan was to just fly fish for two weeks, but since two of my friends don't fish, we also plan to visit some of the NP's. I grew up in Lolo MT and I miss every moment of it, so I am very excited about this trip.

We'll arrive in Missoula on August 5th and after resting the night, we plan to start my fly fishing adventure. The plan is to fish around the Missoula/Lolo area for a few days and then drive down to Yellowstone NP for about 3 days. After that, we'll drive up to Glacier NP and stay there about 3 days as well. Even though I lived in Montana for about 6 years, I've never had the opportunity to visit any of the NP's, so hiking and sightseeing is also one of my primary goals for this vacation. After Glacier NP we'll return back to Missoula and after spending one more night I will reluctantly leave MT and drive back to my current home in Missouri.

What rivers we should fish while in the Missoula area? I prefer more secluded rivers/streams.

So far we plan to visit the Bitterroot and Lolo Creek as I spent a lot of time there growing up, but we only plan to spend about a day in Lolo. I've seen some information here on the forum for Yellowstone NP and plan to use that when I'm there. I'm not sure where I'll fish while in Glacier NP.

I am fairly new to fly fishing as I only discovered fly fishing here in Missouri. I usually fish the Current River in Missouri, several miles from the state park. The largest trout I caught there was a 17 inch Brown. Mostly I catch rainbows in the 14 to 9 inch range.

My current pole is a 5 weight Orvis Access with a CFO III reel. Is this sufficient for the larger trout in MT? I feel like I have what I need for this trip in terms of gear (waders/vest/non felt boots/etc) so I mainly need to stock up on appropriate flys and tippet material. I generally use #5 tippets, though I have some 6 and 3 as well. I use the Orvis Mirage tippets.

Any tips on flys, rivers, or general advice would be greatly appreciated! :fishing:

**********LAST UPDATE 06-18-13*************************************
**********My latest schedule that I'll update as planning continues**********

Day 1, Monday August 5th: Arrive in Missoula around noon. Check into hotel. Eat. Most likely will head down to Rock Creek to fish for a few hours. Go to airport at midnight to pick up brother.

Day 2, Tuesday: Drive down to Lolo in the morning. Go swim the Bitterroot, visit my old home, visit Lolo Creek, Fort Fissel (sp?), & Lolo Hot Springs. Sometime that afternoon we will leave and head south towards West Fork Bitterroot. Try some fishing that evening and perhaps find a camping spot.

Day 3, Wednesday: If fishing is good at West Fork Bitterroot, I will stay there for most of the morning. Drive down to Ennis that afternoon, or earlier if fishing is poor at West Fork Bitterroot. Once I'm at Ennis, we'll head over to the Madison and fish the recommended wading locations. Will camp somewhere by Ennis.

Day 4, Thursday: Get up very early in the morning and drive down to Gardiner. Go on an all day float trip on the Yellowstone with a guide. After float trip we will head over to YNP if still daylight and set up camp. Otherwise will camp in Gardiner.

Day 5, Friday: Explore YNP. Activities will mainly involve hiking and fishing. I purchased three guide books, Lonely Planet YNP for general information and planning, a fly fishing guide to YNP, and a hiking guide to YNP. Rivers I'll try to fish will be Gardiner, Lamar, Soda Creek and Slough Creek.

Day 6, Saturday: Explore YNP, as above.

Day 7, Sunday: Explore YNP, as above.

Day 8, Monday: Explore YNP, as above.

Day 9, Tuesday: Get ready to leave YNP. Might try some morning fishing, but plan to leave before noon. Arrive in Missoula that afternoon. Go fishing at Rock Creek. Will camp the night here.

Day 10, Wednesday: Fish Rock Creek during the morning, then drive up to GNP. Setup base camp and explore GNP.

Day 11, Thursday: Explore GNP.

Day 12, Friday: Leave GNP around noon, return to Missoula. Fish Rock Creek or maybe some other location close to Missoula. Will leave Montana later that evening.

Day 13, Saturday: Arrive home and start planning my next trip!

******************** ]]> Rocky Mountain Range pevelg http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/322048-road-trip-montana-august.html http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/321948-car-camping-fishing-lakes-flat-tops.html Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:26:45 GMT Last summer my friends & I had a blast up in the Flat Tops Wilderness so I returned with a buddy last week to explore new lakes and streams in another part of this amazing expanse. The Flat Tops is an enormous place; one could spend many summers exploring the region. During our three day trip there was very little activity on the surface, we were bummed to see no prolific hatches during our three day visit. So we spent the majority of time fishing nymphs at inlet stations. My friend found one big (size 10 or 12) mayfly prince nymph that was the hot ticket and I had a little success with a black soft-hackle wooly worm and a green emerging caddis nymph. During the evenings there was a little surface activity. My buddy caught some small rainbows on an Adams and I skated a red humpy on the glassy surface and nailed a couple of nice cuttys.

The fishing in general was a little slow, but my friend managed twenty total fish and I got seven. We are both still learning and we misconverted on dozens of nibbles. The good news is that the fish we did catch were much larger than expected. I had actually fished this area years before and caught many smaller rainbows up to 12" but on this trip the average fish was larger. At one inlet, my buddy caught three species of trout from the exact same standing position. He nailed a brookie, rainbow, and Colorado cutthroat in an hour's time from the exact same station. We kept yelling, "Triple Play!!!!" From my research with the Colorado DOW, I know that the rainbows are stockers, but I have no idea how the brookies and cutthroats got there. We did take two rainbows and one brook trout and cooked them over the campfire.



My best fish of the trip, a beauty 15" rainbow




This rainbow went over the coals of the campfire





My friend caught the next three fish from the exact same standing position: a nice brookie, impressive rainbow, and an incredible 15-16" Colorado cutthroat











This chunky cutthroat cut the tape at 13"


This rainbow fell victim to the campfire



Kind of a poor picture, but it's a "Double!!!"
]]> Rocky Mountain Range countr21 http://www.theflyfishingforum.com/forums/rocky-mountain-range/321948-car-camping-fishing-lakes-flat-tops.html