Gone Fishing-Montana-Day Fourteen

[Mike Cline]

October 12th, 2007
Weather today was a typical Montana Fall—cool morning, warm cloudy afternoon.  By 2PM it was 60 and overcast–a perfect streamer day.

After another fine breakfast at the Blue Anchor we headed to the Four River Fishing Co. to meet our guide—Eli.  Today we’d fish three rivers—the Beaverhead, Big Hole and Jefferson.  The float began in downtown Twin Bridges at the city park on the Beaverhead.

We floated the mile or so down to the Big Hole confluence and wade fished a few holes upstream on the Big Hole.

The rest of the day was on the Jefferson floating down to Hells Canyon.  I’d never fished the Beaverhead, so the several big browns caught in the first mile were a treat.

Once on the Jefferson, it was the typical streamer day.  Lots of middle size fish and a few lunkers.  This one was the best of the day off a black Bow River bugger.

I didn’t get conned into bobber fishing today.  But when we encountered a baetis hatch off some riprap Eli said it was a rule that I had to throw some dry flies.  We could have filled a cooler full of 10-12” rainbows that were schooled up in big pods on the riprap.

Overall it was a great day of fishing on some marvelous rivers.  The guides were great, the fish cooperative, and the Montana Fall most inviting.  It’s hard to believe that in another month it will be frigid in Montana.

Dinner tonight was courtesy of the Rooster Leavens and the Stonefly Inn.  Rooster occasionally cooks up some good steaks and salmon for his guests and tonight was no exception.

We shared dinner with a group of diehard fly guys from Seattle up for a week of fishing with Four Rivers.  Quite an experience.  Lies were told on both sides, although digital photos make lying tougher.

If you want to fish the Big Hole, stay in Twin Bridges with Rooster at the Stonefly Inn—great cabins and great camaraderie.  Tomorrow we’re off to Bozeman to discuss homes with our realtor.  Fishin is done with.

[Mark Landerman]

Bozangeles gettin’ a few more residents?

[Mike Cline]

Bozangeles gettin’ a few more residents?

Been in the works for a while.

[Rolf Jacobsen]

Mike just a note to say thank you for your posts/photos on this trip. I have enjoyed waking up every morning knowing these will be the first things I look at on the dreaded box. I had the good fortune to fish many of the streams in your posts this past July and you bring back some great memories. One suggestion, next time out, give the Ruby a try too.

Thanks Again,
Rolf

[Mark Landerman]

Been in the works for a while.

[Joel Thompson]

Great post once again Mike. Thanks for taking the time the past couple of weeks two keep us informed. I totally agree with Rolf in that you should hit the Ruby next time.

Lando it is a buyers market right now in Bozo. Housing prices are down and offers BELOW asking price are being accepted. Now all someone has to do is put up with the Bobcats!

Joel

[yuhina]

Great post Mike! I love these casual shots with friends and ,of course, Food!
Thanks for the post! A fabulous trip! 😀

[Mark Landerman]

Now all someone has to do is put up with the Bobcats!

Joel

GO GRIZZ!

[Jay Hake]

Mike,

Thanks for the great posts.

[Author]

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