Montana Fish Report

The Wood River was slow for brown trout on opening day. This was likely due to the cold water temperatures and clearer water. Currently, flows are low but expect them to increase with snowmelt in the Annie Creek and Sun Creek drainages.‌

Water temperature will be cold; therefore, it is imperative that lures and flies are fished deep and slow. Most brown trout feed near or on the bottom this time of year.‌

During high flows brown trout gorge on earthworms. Since bait is not allowed artificials that mimic worms like the San Juan Worm fly might work. Brown trout also feed on sculpin, stoneflies (golden and salmonflies), sucker eggs, mice, cased caddisflies and clam shrimp this time of year.‌

The best section to fish is above Crooked Creek. Fishing near Fort Creek might also be productive.‌

Most large redband trout caught this time of year are spawned out kelts. Please handle them carefully. ‌

Bull Trout are becoming more common in the catch. Know the difference between Brook Trout and Bull Trout.