Southwestern Montana 8-16-14

Big happening on a lot of streams is appearance of spruce moths. The Gallatin and the Big Hole have famous hatches, but any stream flowing through fir or jackpine forests will have significant hatches of these insect that we are not fortunate to have, except that they attract trout. Best fishing for them is after morning sun warms them enough to fly and mate.  Hebgen Lake gulper action has been a bit spotty as of late, but late in the day fishing on the river below has been good when spinner falls or caddis swarms take over.  Want a treat with a lightweight system? try the West Fork of the Madison River. You can drive for miles up this stream to catch eager browns, bows and  cutts. Nothing big, for sure, but great action in the riffles, runs and pools.  It’s another great choice for taking an entry level or physically challenged person.