Montana Jim : Springtime in Montana

Springtime Fly Fishing Montana

The Blackfoot River 86 miles long from the Continental Divide to Missoula

The weather has been exceedingly good, with some snow and wind then with sunny clear skies.

42* F. in the afternoon, the water a crisp 38*F.

Although I am still carrying winter supplies, my wool mittens have been left in the truck.

I much prefer the standard light glove, my hands take a beating. At my age, some issues need special care. During the slowdown of Winter, I had some tune-up work done and am still mending while regaining my strength.

The last few times out I have had to re tune my strings. I always advise others to check their knots, well already I have lost a nice fish to a poor knot. I emptied all my fly boxes in November, sorted, and ordered bunches of great patterns. They have been carefully organized. Now I am building my boxes with an eye on the Calendar. I will be the first to say that I am very good out doors and I catch many trout, but I am not artful with tying. I have great connections, many locals who do an amazing job. I have tied my own, I used to have a vise and bobbins, scissors and threads. I have caught many fish with my own flies, however I now concentrate on what I do well. I catch fish

Carrying fire is very important. Having a problem is easier with fire. I also carry bear spray. Those rascals have been very active the last few years. Most are black bears, others are the grizzlier variety. Moose are around, their scat is so huge one cannot miss it. My last trip to the river I saw a beaver working away. Spring floods are only a few short weeks away. They must prepare.

I used a white Clause Minnow to get these two cuts. No hesitation from the fish.

Clauser Minnow

nymph pictured below

Cool mountain waters

This is one special place.

I am old fashioned in that when I see others on the river, I immediately introduce myself and come to an agreement as to who goes where. We usually hit it off, sometimes I sense a bit of resentment, but a short chat can end up making a life log friend. At least for the day!