Montana Fish Report

Trout are starting to bite, and fishing continues to improve each week.  The cooler nights and shorter days will help cool the water temperature.  This should make the trout more active and easier to catch.  The shad are starting to school in the main lake near the mouths of major creek arms.  Try fishing over deep water near the dam, spillway, and Rose Island.  Trolling anglers try using shad patterned spoons.  Excels, Needlefish, and Speedy Shiners are all good choices.  Two spoons trolled in tandem is a good way to trigger a few more strikes.  The two spoons will resemble a pair of fleeing baitfish. Bass fishing has been tough for most anglers.  Some fish are moving shallow to feed early mornings and in the evenings.  Try using crawdad colored jigs and soft plastics to target these fish.  There is a large population of fish that are suspended and holding on off shore structure which makes them very difficult to find and catch.  The key to finding these fish is to find where the bait is.  Use your electronics to find bait and the bass will be near.  Catfish action is very good.  Most anglers are catching multiple catfish on each outing.  The average size catfish is 4-8 pounds, with fish over 10-pounds considered to be better than average.  We have had many reports of different baits that are working.  Night crawlers, liver, shad, and anchovies seem to be producing the majority of fish.  It is very important to use a sliding sinker or no weight at all.     Glory Hole Sports  (209) 736-4333, (209) 586-2383