Fly fishing is definitely a family activity. Just be sure to have life jackets, sunscreen, hats, water and food for the kids. Be practical about the distance of the float and be safe. Jack’s daughter and husband live near Billings. They like to meet Jack in the Big Hole and spend at least a couple of days fishing and camping. On this late July weekend, our longtime friend (and also fishing guide) was doing the same stretch with his family. One can never have to much fun!
The two Knick boys at the put-in on the Big Hole. Grandpa Jack is taking the photo.
Irv has a home in the Bitterroot and comes up from CA often. This year Irv, his family and some friends have fished the Bitterroot a lot, the Big Hole some and at least one day so far on the Blackfoot.
Here are a couple of photos from the Big Hole River. They seem to be catching quite a few brown trout this July.
Bob and Peggy have a home near the Bitterroot River but you have to fish other places, too. On this day, Bob and Jack ventured “over the hill” to the Big Hole. It paid off. Cooler temperatures, more water, lots of fish and spectacular scenery were some of the perks.
Peter has been to Montana many times but we first met Peter in the late 1990’s when he came to fish with his sister and her family. Peter finished school, began his career in Texas and we didn’t see him for awhile. Now Peter lives in northern CA, his career is established and the lure and memories of fishing in Montana have brought him back. He has spent more time in Montana than many because he loves the outdoors and fishing. Peter had been to the Big Hole, but this was his first time float-fishing it. It was a great day.
We are fortunate to have Peter as a friend and as a client. He is smart, fun to be with, passionate about life, dogs and about fishing. Take a trip down the Big Hole River with Peter and with us through the photos in the slideshow below.
Doc and his wife, Liz, were up again. They have a sweet little place on the middle river and come as often as they can. John fishes by his house or wade fishes his other favorite spots.
Liz enjoys the quiet time and catches up on her reading.
On this day, he is fishing with Jack. What a beautiful day.
Salmonfly (Pteronarcys californica) from the Big Hole in June
Wapiti Waters spent a lot of time on the Big Hole River this spring and early summer. Jack began his guiding career in the early 1980’s on the Big Hole with the Complete Fly Fisher. He loves the high valley and clear, beautiful Big Hole River. It is one of many rivers he fishes and he knows it well.
See a slideshow below for a few photos from this spring and early summer. Something you should know, if you fish the Big Hole River in June, bring potent and ample amounts of mosquito dope and cover yourself well with clothing. The mosquitoes are plentiful and BIG. But, the fishing and scenery is worth putting up with these pests.
