Missouri River Hatches

APRIL AND MAY

The most important hatches are Midges and Baetis. Favorite patterns are the Griffeth's Gnat # 18-# 22, Parachutes Adams and Olive Comparaduns in # 16 - # 20. Calm overcast days provide the best activity. Large streamers and crayfish patterns are good for large browns. Springtime is excellent for browns over 20".

JUNE THRU AUGUST

Caddis and PMD activity begins in June and peaks in July. The famous Trico hatch normally starts by mid-July. Hopper fishing varies each year, but can be great from early July thru September. Nymphing is productive most anytime. Attractor dries are also effective. Popular patterns for the summer season are Elk Hair Caddis # 14- # 18, Jim's Caddis Emerger # 14-# 16; PMD Nymphs, Emergers and Duns # 14 - # 18; Trico Parachutes and Comparaduns, H&L Variant, Adams Parachute and Trico Sinners all in # 18 - # 20; Parachute and Elk Hair Hoppers # 8 - # 12; Hare's Ear, Olive Flashback, Pheasant Tail and MFG's # 12 - # 18; Royal Wulffs and Trudes # 12 - # 16.

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

Tricos are still good for much of September, as are the Hoppers. Baetis and Midge hatches start up as the weather cools. Fall streamer fishing produces a lot of rainbows along with some trophy browns. Mid-October to Mid-November is your best bet for a large fish. Favorite streamers include Electric Buggers and Brown Krystal Buggers # 2 - # 4 (with or without lead-eyes) Girdle Bugs # 4 - # 6; Marabou Muddlers and Crayfish patterns # 2 - # 6.