Missouri River
FishableMontana
Current Conditions
The Missouri River is running at 3,080 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 5:45 PM from USGS gauge 06066500 (Missouri River below Holter Dam)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 3500–5500 CFS | Fishable to 8000 CFS | Marginal to 12000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is cool — ideal for trout activity. Fish will be feeding actively throughout the day.
About the Missouri River
The Missouri below Holter Dam is one of the finest tailwater fisheries in the world. Cold, nutrient-rich water from the dam produces some of the highest trout densities anywhere, with rainbows averaging 16-18 inches. The river runs clear year-round and fishes well in all seasons.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Trico Trico Spinner #20 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-20 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Midge Griffith's Gnat #18-22 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18-20, Sparkle Dun #18, RS2 #20
Patterns: Griffith's Gnat #18-22, Zebra Midge #18-22, WD-40 #20
River Sections
Holter Dam to Cascade
wade/float access3,080 CFS
The "miracle mile" — insane trout densities in the first few miles below the dam. Excellent year-round fishing.
Cascade to Great Falls
float access3,080 CFS
Wide, braided river with excellent nymph and dry fly opportunities. Great float section.
Guides on the Missouri River(104)
These fishing guides list the Missouri River as one of their home waters.
Big Sky Anglers
West Yellowstone, Idaho
16 Mile Outfitting
Townsend, Montana
1889 Outfitters
Lewistown, Montana
3 Dog Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
Adventures Outfitting
Ennis, Montana
All Valley Anglers Outfitting
Cameron, Montana
Angler’s West Montana Guide Service
Helena, Montana
Avalanche Basin Outfitters
White Sulphur Springs, Montana
Backcountry Angler
Dillon, Montana
Beartooth Flyfishing
Cameron, Montana
Benchmark Wilderness Ranch
Fairfield, Montana
Big Sky Expeditions
Helena, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Missouri River?+
The Missouri River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Missouri River in March?+
In March, the Missouri River sees Blue-Winged Olive, Midge activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18-20, Griffith's Gnat #18-22. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Missouri River?+
Outguided lists 104 fishing guides who operate on the Missouri River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Missouri River?+
The Missouri River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 3500–5500 CFS.
What fish species are in the Missouri River?+
The Missouri River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Missouri River below Holter Dam
Station #06066500
Missouri River near Townsend
Station #06073500