Wrangling Runoff

Finding success in less-than-ideal spring conditions.

For several years in young adulthood, I did most of my trout fishing with ultralight spinning gear. One morning in late spring, I motored from the family ranch west of Three Forks to the lower Madison, which was just beginning to rise with the runoff. Put off by its slightly murky appearance, I wasn’t expecting much in the way of fishing. But to my surprise, the morning proved amazing. From a deep, long run I coaxed two big brown trout to net after intense battles, severely taxing the wispy little spinning rod.

Bud Lilly, legendary trout guide and fly-fishing author, believed the runoff offers one of the best opportunities for trophy trout. Big fish, he used to explain, often attain their size by inhabiting haunts where they’re unlikely to be bothered by anglers. But come runoff, two factors favor the angler. First of all, high water volume and rapid currents diminish the amount of desirable habitat in the stream. Trout must typically hug the banks or hover behind structure to dodge the current. This concentrates more fish in fewer locations. Secondly, turbid water makes it much more difficult for a fish to see an angler on the bank or the line attached to a hook.

Fish detect prey not only by sight, but also by sensing water displacement caused by movement.

However, the murky water that makes it tougher for the fish to see an angler also makes it harder for them to see the bait. Anglers are thus advised to use flies or lures easily located by their target species, and to methodically work the water. Dark colors, such as black, brown, and olive provide the best contrast against cloudy water. Baits with shiny elements also promote visibility, especially when the sun is shining.

It also helps to upsize and create motion. Fish detect prey not only by sight, but also by sensing water displacement caused by movement. Fly anglers should work big flies such as woolly buggers, large nymphs, and streamers. Spin anglers can toss weighted jigs, spinners, and fluttering spoons.

Beyond the main rivers, tributaries that meld to form larger streams aren’t created equal. Many flow from higher elevation or protected drainages with delayed snowmelt, running clear while their more disturbed counterparts are dirty. Upper tributaries on the main stems of the Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone, for example, may be fishable when the lower-elevation portions are blown out. A tributary may also create something of a sanctuary for fish where the clear water mixes with the murk on a larger stream.

The weeks of the runoff typically boast excellent angling on Montana’s storied tailwaters, including the Bighorn and Missouri rivers.

Tailwaters, those segments of stream occurring below a dam, are generally unaffected or minimally clouded by the runoff. The longer, warmer days also bring tailwaters to life. Cold-blooded fish—their metabolism keyed to their surroundings—perk up with rising water temperatures. Hatches ramp up with milder weather, presenting varied opportunities for fly anglers casting to cooperative fish. The weeks of the runoff typically boast excellent angling on Montana’s storied tailwaters, including the Bighorn and Missouri rivers. Road-trip anyone?

Flat-water angling is another superb respite from the murky rivers. Shortly after ice-out, and for several weeks thereafter, fishing is often the best on lakes and reservoirs. Look to options like Canyon Ferry for girthy walleye or Hebgen Lake for trophy trout. Just pick a calm, warm day.

With all the options, there’s no need to let your fishing tackle collect dust in the spring. Flexible anglers can find some of the best fishing of the year when the fishing report reads “blown out.”

Jack Ballard grew up on a ranch west of Three Forks, where he first learned to fish. He’s been after Montana trout with all kinds of tackle for over 50 years.