Montana waters are in late-summer mode. On the big rivers like the Yellowstone, Bitterroot, and Missouri, trout are feeding early and late, with mid-day slowing to a crawl in the heat. Terrestrials — think grasshoppers, beetles, and ants — are the ticket on the surface. Subsurface, small nymph rigs are still producing in deeper runs.
Warmwater fishing is strong. Fort Peck and Canyon Ferry are giving up walleye and smallmouth, with most fish sitting deeper on rocky points. Trolling crankbaits or running bottom bouncers slow and steady is paying off. For perch, look to weed edges in the mornings.
High mountain lakes are still reliable, especially if you hike into the less pressured spots. Spinners, woolly buggers, and small dries will keep cutthroat and brookies interested. Best advice this week: fish early, release quick, and beat the heat.
