Missouri River Fly Fishing Report – May 31, 2025
The Missouri River below Holter Dam is fishing lights out right now—and it’s only getting better. With stable flows, rising water temps, and a mix of caddis, BWOs, and the first whispers of PMDs, things are setting up for a classic early summer bite.
We’ve been on the water daily, running guided fly fishing trips from Holter Dam to Craig to Cascade, and here’s the latest from our crew at Riverstone Outfitters.
River Conditions
- Location: Holter Dam to Cascade
- Flows: ~5,500–5,660 CFS
- Water Temp: 54–56°F
- Clarity: Excellent
- Weather: Hot today (94°F), but cooler and cloudier weather is forecast for early next week—perfect for BWOs
The river is in prime shape for both float and wade fishing. Steady flows and clear water make for predictable drifts and happy trout.
Hatches & Fly Recommendations
We’re seeing an exciting transition right now, with caddis picking up steam and PMDs starting to pop in the afternoons.
Dry Flies:
- Corn-Fed Caddis (#16)
- Purple Haze (#16–18)
- Last Chance Cripple (PMD)
- Rusty Spinners (#18–20)
- Parachute Adams (BWO #18–22)
Nymphs:
- Green Machine
- Tailwater Sowbug
- Duracell
- Lucent Tag PMD
- Frenchie
- Split Case PMD
Streamers (mornings & low light):
- Sparkle Minnow (Sculpin or Brown)
- Thin Mint
- Kreelex
- Mini Dungeon
Techniques & Local Tips
Dry Fly Fishing:
Overcast days are money. Look for sipping fish along soft edges, foam lines, and mid-river flats. The canyon stretch near Dearborn has been producing solid afternoon risers.
Nymphing:
Still the most consistent game in town. Run a two-fly rig below an indicator. Sowbugs, PMD nymphs, and flashy attractors are all producing.
Streamer Fishing:
Early morning and evenings are your best bet. Keep retrieves slow and deliberate. Trout are eating, but they’re making you work for it.
Outlook
With a shift toward cooler weather and potential rain on Sunday, look for an uptick in Blue-Winged Olive and PMD activity. Caddis should continue to build into next week. The Missouri is in great shape for a June fishing trip—and it’s only going to get better.
Want In On This?
Book your Missouri River guided fly fishing trip with Riverstone Outfitters and experience the magic firsthand. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned angler, we’ll get you on fish and dialed in.
📍 Riverstone Outfitters
📞 Call: (406) 607-1165
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Related Reads
- Top 5 Flies for Spring on the Missouri River
- What to expect on a guided Missouri River fly fishing trip