Fishing notes
In January, Jack takes time to write down some educated predictions for the upcoming fishing season.
2023 Seasonal Outlook – Wapiti Waters Fly Fishing Montana
Our cold spring was welcome weather as snowpack levels continually rose. Many good fish were caught during our pre-runoff spring but one had to brave the temperatures that rarely cracked 45 degrees F.
We are currently in a very warm weather cycle and snowpack melting fast. Our area rivers are now unfishable. That being said, up until now we have had record low flows with virtually no runoff. Stream flows were at record low flows most of April. My guess is there will probably be a good “window of angling opportunity” in the month of May particularly on the Big Hole.
As far as June is concerned, the West Fork of the Bitterroot and the Big Hole will be the best fishing options.
We are looking forward to our 40th year of guiding/outfitting on the river resources that have sustained us all these Wonderfull years.
If you fished with me last year, many thanks and hope to see you in the near future.
The key for Wapiti Waters anglers is to adapt, adjust and grin and bear it.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Wapiti Waters Fly Fishing Montana, Jack C. Mauer Montana Outfitter #867 and Fishing Guide
800.254.5311. 406.642.6548 or banjojack@wapiti-waters.com
About Wapiti Waters
Our business has been around since 1996. We have been guiding for 3 decades and fishing the cold-water resources for over 4 decades. No doubt we’ve been lucky along the way and our passion for the waterways in western Montana is real as is the desire to share our passion and knowledge.
Anglish Spoken here – Rambling thoughts on why I love to fly fish
I often think of the reasons I love to fish with a fly rod. I just find that casting a fly-rod is a rewarding way to fish. I will admit it is not the only way to catch fish and it might not be the most productive, but it is the way I like to fish. I like the challenge. That being said, I love to teach casting fundamentals to eager students and help clean up casting flaws to those receptive to a little coaching. I have been fortunate to see the mechanics of some of the great casters and witnessed the joys of a novice fly fisherman begin to “get it.”
Casting a fly rod may not be for everyone as mastering the cast requires lots of practice, however I can hardly wait to get out on the water and not only fish but cast one of the many wonderful rods I have in my arsenal and available for clients to use. Spring is coming, renewal is ahead as winter is about halfway over.
Be well and safe,
Jack