As summer has reached its peak, trout fishing on local streams can become more challenging with hoot owl restrictions across Montana’s legendary fly fishing rivers. These restrictions, which prohibit fishing from 2pm to midnight, are designed to protect our beloved trout during the warmest part of the day. But fear not! There are still plenty of ways to enjoy fishing this summer if you adjust your approach. Keep reading to learn about a few alternative options and solutions to making your Montana fly fishing trip as productive as possible.
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Get On and Off the Water Early
One of the best ways to work around hoot owl restrictions, and make the most of your Missoula fly fishing experience, is to be on the water before the heat of the day kicks in. Early mornings provide the coolest part of the day and we’re fortunate in Big Sky Country to have crisp nights to bring water temperatures down before you leave the boat launch bright and early. Aim to be on the water as early as possible, and plan to wrap up your fishing adventure before 2pm. Even without the restrictions, fishing tends to slow down after midday. Always carry a thermometer to check water temperatures throughout the day to ensure you’re fishing in safe conditions for the trout and beef up your tippet a size larger than you would normally use so you can land the fish as fast as possible. Minimize exposure and time out of water for photos.
And if temperatures exceed safe levels for trout (~68 degrees fahrenheit), kick back and enjoy a cold brew — there’s nothing wrong with a peaceful float down the river, enjoying the scenery, and giving those trout a break when they need it.
Fish the Tailwaters
Tailwaters are a great alternative during the peak of summer and Montana hoot owl restrictions due to the cold water coming out of a dam. Rivers like the Missouri, upper Madison, Beaverhead, and Kootenai benefit from water released from dams, which keeps them cool even during even the hottest stretches of summer. These waters provide consistent and quality opportunities for fly fishing in Montana. The cold, oxygen-rich waters of tailwaters create ideal habitats for trout, making them a prime destination when freestone rivers are too warm.
Tailwater Fly Fishing Set Up:
Head to the High Country
When the lowland rivers heat up, it’s time to head to the high country. Whether it’s fishing a headwater creek or tributary, or hiking to an alpine lake, the high elevations offer cooler temperatures and eager, wild trout. Most of these waters remain cold throughout the summer, providing excellent fishing opportunities even during Montana hoot owl restrictions. The hike itself can be an enjoyable part of the adventure and maybe make it a multi-day backpacking trip where you can try multiple lakes or streams all in one go. By late summer, all of the snow has melted in the mountains making for easy travel on trails.
High Country Fly Fishing Set Up:
Bass Fishing
Bass fly fishing in Montana is a fantastic alternative when trout streams are too warm during hoot owl restrictions in Montana as bass are a much tougher species and can withstand hot temperatures better than trout can. The lower Clark Fork River below the confluence with the Flathead River offers exciting smallmouth bass action. Largemouth bass can be found in lakes throughout the Flathead Valley and east of the continental divide. Bass fishing is similar to streamer fishing for trout, making it an easy and enjoyable transition for trout anglers who like to throw meat.
Bass Fly Fishing Set Up:
Hit the Flats for Carp
Carp fly fishing in Montana is growing in popularity and offers a unique and challenging experience, especially for those who want to practice their saltwater fly fishing skills. The Missouri River drainage including the headwaters stretch, reservoirs like Canyon Ferry, Hauser Lake, Holter Lake, and downstream below Cascade are excellent places to target carp. Beyond the “Mo”, many large reservoirs east of the continental divide like Fort Peck, the Bighorn Reservoir, and the lower Yellowstone River host large populations of carp. These fish are strong, wily, and can provide some of the most stimulating fishing you’ll experience in freshwater Montana fly fishing.
Carp Fly Fishing Set Up:
Despite a low snowpack and a hot summer, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy fly fishing in western Montana even during hoot owl restrictions. By adjusting your approach, exploring alternative fishing options, and monitoring water temperatures, you can continue to make the most of your summer fly fishing season.
Check out our Missoula fishing reports for up-to-date information on where to fish and which Missoula Rivers (like the Bitterroot River, Clark Fork River, Blackfoot River, and Rock Creek) are under Montana hoot owl restrictions. And remember, our Missoula fly shop is always here to provide inside information, tips, and guidance to help you beat the heat and enjoy your fishing adventures all summer long.
