May on The River

The Blackfoot River 

May 30th, 2015

The spring floods are here, The water did rise again this week and the clarity is very stained. 

Not perfect for the dry fly fisherman. I was lucky and found some excellent fly fishing this month. Spring fly fishing on the Blackfoot River can be the most frustrating of all seasons. Warmer rainy weather causes higher river levels and clouds up the river quickly. Some snow still lingers up high, but very little.  Rain now is a positive weather trend, mitigating any possible river closures later in the season. I look forward to some clear water, easy wading and plenty of hatches. Blackfoot River fishing is different than many other rivers in that the primary target is the cutthroat trout, some browns and many cut/bows. 

Not far down the highway is the Missouri River, brown and rainbow cutthroat trout are everywhere in the mighty Mo!. It is a popular destination for fly fishers from around the world. I like to fish for the big trout there, and I am not bothered by the crowds of people that gather when the bite is on. 

I drive my Toyota pick-up when I go fishing.  Now that I am older, I can easily forget something, so my pre fish routine is always consistent.I sit on the tailgate to pull up my waders and boots.

 I feel fortunate to live in Montana.  My truck has never been bothered while I have been gone fishing. It always waits alone in the woods while I leave it to hike the river.

That said, let me go to my irresistible point."Never be surprised". Any cast could bring a fish and it's an essential mindset for the fly fisher. Be alert while fishing for what's going on around the shoreline.  Animals of many species live along the river, and coming in contact with them should always be a good one. I haven't been wearing bear spray for years, but now I do. "Live and let live" is a great way to be part of the scenery.

 I always try to avoid other anglers, mainly because I respect their space on the river and I want mine in return. I do however come in contact and I enjoy speaking with them. Many are genuinely good people. Certainly not all fly fishers are meant to be comrades, something to remember. "Never be surprised".... 

Casting up stream and floating over the riffles brings great results

I could say "Epic"

A large male Cutthroat

The beautiful brown trout among the Cutthroats

A local submarine

Montana will be a busy fishing destination this year. Travel by vehicle is now affordable. I have encountered visitors a couple times recently. Nice people, common ground, courteous. I share some stretches and don't complain. Most of the unpleasant types wind up fishing the famous rivers with a professional guide service. I don't envy the guides, they must adjust their sport for the sake of a career in fly fishing. Personal sacrifice for the happiness of a client can be tall order.

It is best that visiting fly fisher comes prepared.  One should should scout the area on-line,read a book, and bring appropriate gear, and good manners. Most locals don't mind others that come on vacation, but do object to competition for our own special places. We aren't all fishing guides. Many of us live here, year round. You are welcome to visit

Thanks, have fun and be safe...

Jim.

For me fly fishing in May is the most difficult time. Our winters are cold enough to make me feel like a couch potato. Springtime means getting the engines to fire on all cylinders. My best friend, my body, has not been completely forgotten.  I have, all winter been hiking, fishing, moving forward every chance I had. The next important component about getting fired up for spring is mental. Those that fish all year, usually don't miss a beat when this season begins. Those that haven't, need to re-think gear, technique and do some planning. My equipment was upgraded this winter, a new reel and rod have given me a chance to work on my casting.  Comparing set-ups, helps me with the feeling of my equipment. Knots need to be practiced, and checked every time. Flies need to be sorted and organized. Clippers, tippet, leaders, flotant, forceps, repellent, among other details all need to be accounted for.
Fishing license?  If your game warden is as active as ours, do not forget. It's really bad to have to turn the truck around to go back and just because you forgot to buy a licence.
Speak to your significant "other" about having fishing time together if you don't already. More time on the water is a bonus.
My final words...Never be surprised! One never knows for certain what the fish will do,or how the river will flow!

Spring fishing on the Blackfoot is very challenging 

The Westslope Cutthroat Trout

The river moves fast during  May, this season it is much lower than normal...

Returning to the river spots that were favorites in the past is really a treat.  Logs have moved, The beavers have been busy, .................................   Selecting the fly is always a challenge. The river is always changing.  Insect hatches and feeding fish are the easiest ways to help choose a fly. Otherwise, try a range of generic flies. see if anything turns a fish. You will know quickly what will work. On the other hand, if no fish are rising, and no bugs are coming off the water, a bit more searching may be needed. Midges, nymphs, terrestrials? Smelling a skunk? Take a walk and try another spot, or just kick back and relax.

Happy Cutthroat!

I used a #16 Parachute Adams

When you see this, you are in the game!

This stretch of freestone river is gin clear!

Cool trout loved the San Juan Worm

Bonus catch for Christine Plourde,  Deer antlers are awesome.!

Christine's first trout in Montana She used a caddis emerger.

Finally the trees have sprouted leaves, the willows are growing on the shoreline. 

 The Blackfoot River

I hope all my friends catch their fish with joy, and that the fishing gods smile.