Montana Fish Report

Not much news to report this week, with the exception of some nice size fish showing up right at the mouth of McGee Creek. This water is too shallow for most big boats, but if you have access to a float tube, get in there with some perch imitations. We have been out in that 14 to 16 foot range most of the week. Some days you will hook 6 or 7 of the really big fish, most days you will get a shot at 3 or 4 of the big boys. Top flies early have been the black headed tiger midge, it has been working better than the copper head all week. Later, if and when the bugs start hatching, switch over to the grey and black patterns. The best area continues to be McGee Bay in, or near the creek channel. There are also some nice browns patrolling the weed beds, and some nice fish out in 17 to 18 feet of water. Little Hilton and Crooked Creek are still good for the small planters.   Mickey Baron Crowley Lake Guide Service 760 935-4301. Trolling Report Trolling right now is on the tough side although there are big trout still coming to the boat. I was on an exploring trip by myself to find fish and hit a 7# brown on Sat. Most of the action is small fish that didn’t get eaten by the big fish and an occasional nice one. Outside the midgers in McGee in 20-25 feet of water there are lots of fish . Lots of lures will work including Rapalas in the 9 floater size, Needlefish, Arctic Fox trolling flies. Put the lures down about 15 feet and check them often for algae and weeds as we are having a 2nd bloom now. As we get into the fall with dropping water temps the fish will charge the north end and the best trolling of the year is in our future. Just hope for good weather as Oct. can be iffy in the weather dept. I didn’t try the Tasmanians but I bet they would work too as their action is irresistible. Remember to flatten the barbs and all fish under 18” must be released so use a rubber net if you need to net the fish. Fight the fish quickly and keep them in the water as much as possible so we have these fish to play with next year.                          Don Meier CPR Guide Service 760 784 1524