Benefit Update...

There goes another Michelle Wells Benefit item! Our good buddy Dan Kauffman just called from CHINA and purchased the 3 UV Buff package for $100. Thanks Dan. The rest of you loosahs need to help out. Get on the phone and purchase one of the remaining items (before I do).

1. LODGING ADDED!Skwala Fishing on the Bitterroot with 2 nights lodging at the Paint Horse Trail Cabin, Darby MT 2010 | $750
   (Thanks Chris D & 406 Outfitters MBO #6831, thanks to Bill Osborne for donating his cabin on the Bitteroot) Mid-March thru Mid-April 2010. Big Stonefly Dries for Browns
2. NEW ITEMCapt. Carp Trip angling for BIG CARP 2010 | $600
   w/ C & F Designs Box stuffed w/ Carp Flies (Thanks Evolution Fly Fishing & MK MBO # 11222)
3. Dinner for 2 at Izaak's |$250
   Anything you want from Izaak's delicious menu and all you can drink. (Thanks Izaak's)
4. Full Day Guided Hopper Fishing Trip | $500
   on the Yellowstone w/ John "Modobi" Dobson in 2010. (Thanks JD w/ GTD Outfitters MBO # 9031) Great guide, great river, great cause.
5. A YETI 45 qt Cooler | $500
   in color of your choice...White, Tan, Mossy Oak, or Robin's Egg Blue
6. ECHO 2 9' 5wt Fly Rod | $500
   w/ 2 tips. A fast & a medium fast...an accuracy and a distance.
7. Two (2) Headhunters Hats | $75
   His & Hers. Look good at the Family Reunion.
8. Three (3) BUFF UV Headwear | $100
   Fashion & Function all in a neck garment. SOLD | Dan Kauffman - San Diego, CA
9. HEADHUNTERS Full Day Guide Trip | $500all inclusive on the Missouri. SOLD | Dennis Hegewald- Spokane, WA
10. Two (2) nights lodging @ Brown or Rainbow Cabin | $300
    (Thanks Carroll & Margaret Jenkins/Craig Trout Camp) Downtown Craig, close to everything Trout.SOLD | Jim Arkin- Bay Area, CA
11. C & F Designs Permit Fly Box |$250
    stuffed w/ 24 Kick-Ass Missouri River Streamer Flies. SOLD | Erich Bittmann-Tacoma, WA
12. SIMMSRivershedVibram Wading Boot |$250
    (Thanks Jon Yousko/Simms)SOLD | Joann, Cascade MT
13. SIMMS Homegrown 406 Hoody | $100
    (Thanks Jon Yousko/Simms)...not for retail or public consumption...secret guide stuff!)SOLD | Sarah Firth- Craig, MT

New Breed Gals Rule!

This gal is no slouch. Rough and tumble wade access and she is gettin' after it. She throws a tighter loop than that kick-ass brother-in-law of yours. He's good, just ask him. But can he throw a reach cast? We both know the answer to that question.

Feels like an early fall is on the way. Old Man Winter held on longer than we like, so the fall may arrive early as well. Baetis Love. I'm a Baetis lover. Calm, overcast, 45F, moisture in the air, and every fish in the river rising to dun winged olives. My dreams are consumed by these conscious and sub-conscious thoughts. Book your Sept/Oct trip today for best guide and lodging availability.

Upcoming Events @ Headhunters Fly Shop and Craig MT.

Saturday September 5th
BBQ @ Headhunters 1pm til ? | Fellowship, Fun, Brats, Burgers, & lots of BS
Fly Sale-Happy Hour 5-9pm | $1, yes ONE DOLLAR small dries/nymphs-$1.50 Streamers/Hoppers Flies for 4 hours...any fly, any quantity...Fill your boxes to the gills!
Sale Items | Many closeout items on sale now from SIMMS - while quantities last at the shop.
Live Music @ Izaak's | Bridger Creek Boys - Cool Bluegrass at Craig's only outdoor venue

Wednesday & Thursday September 2nd & 3rd
Live Music @ Izaak's | Hot Buttered Rum and their posse of fans

Lots of new Streamers, BWO dries, shit hot nymphs, Simms cold weather gear, new Headhunters Logo Wear coming for the Fall 2009 Missouri River wrecking fest.

Thanks for tuning in folks...Headhunters Fly Shop & Guide Service...your HOME for information, education, and customer service...located in the EPICENTER of Craig Montana

Michelle Wells Benefit still going on. Buy now while it's hot!!

Get Your Wallets Out!

Michelle Wells Benefit Continues...
As many of you know, our good friend Michelle Wells was recently diagnosed with cancer. Regular visitors to Craig know her simply as "Michelle" from Joe's (Craig Bar). Like many, Michelle has a health care plan that will not cover all of her medical costs (not even close). Everyone in Craig is doing their part to help Michelle out. Headhunters is selling the following items; all of the proceeds will go directly to Michelle. Thank you to all who have donated thus far. We have been impressed with the way our customers have stepped up to help out Michelle. We've raised $1400 so far, and hope to generate another $3200 by the end of the week. Step up and buy one of these great items. You'll get a great product or service and feel good about helping out someone in need.

Check out some of the available items! 3 different guided trips (Carp, Bitteroot, Yellowstone), and our freind Bill Osborne generously added his rental home on the Bitteroot to go along with the Skwala fishing trip. Yeti Cooler, Dinner for 2 at Izaak's (all you can eat and drink), an Echo Fly Rod and more. Remember, this isn't about getting "a deal", it's about fundraising for a good cause...get out your wallet and call!

We all love Michelle and to all who participate in this auction...thanks to all in advance. It is truly appreciated!! The community at large is donating all items to Michelle.

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO MICHELLE WELLS.

Headhunters is raising money for Michelle by offering the following products and services for a fixed donation amount. They will be sold to the first buyer via phone call and offered only once at this time. The goods and services are as follows...

1. LODGING ADDED! Skwala Fishing on the Bitterroot with 2 nights lodging at the Paint Horse Trail Cabin, Darby MT 2010 | $750
   (Thanks Chris D & 406 Outfitters MBO #6831, thanks to Bill Osborne for donating his cabin on the Bitteroot) Mid-March thru Mid-April 2010. Big Stonefly Dries for Browns
   
2. NEW ITEM Capt. Carp Trip angling for BIG CARP 2010 | $600
   w/ C & F Designs Box stuffed w/ Carp Flies (Thanks Evolution Fly Fishing & MK MBO # 11222)
   
3. Dinner for 2 at Izaak's | $250
   Anything you want from Izaak's delicious menu and all you can drink. (Thanks Izaak's)
4. Full Day Guided Hopper Fishing Trip | $500
   on the Yellowstone w/ John "Modobi" Dobson in 2010. (Thanks JD w/ GTD Outfitters MBO # 9031) Great guide, great river, great cause.
5. A YETI 45 qt Cooler | $500
   in color of your choice...White, Tan, Mossy Oak, or Robin's Egg Blue
6. ECHO 2 9' 5wt Fly Rod | $500
   w/ 2 tips. A fast & a medium fast...an accuracy and a distance.
7. Three (3) BUFF UV Headwear | $100
   Fashion & Function all in a neck garment.
8. Two (2) Headhunters Hats | $75
   His & Hers. Look good at the Family Reunion.
9. HEADHUNTERS Full Day Guide Trip | $500
   all inclusive on the Missouri. SOLD | Dennis Hegewald- Spokane, WA
10. Two (2) nights lodging @ Brown or Rainbow Cabin | $300
    (Thanks Carroll & Margaret Jenkins/Craig Trout Camp) Downtown Craig, close to everything Trout. SOLD | Jim Arkin- Bay Area, CA
    
11. C & F Designs Permit Fly Box | $250
    stuffed w/ 24 Kick-Ass Missouri River Streamer Flies. SOLD | Erich Bittmann-Tacoma, WA
    
12. SIMMS Rivershed Vibram Wading Boot | $250
    (Thanks Jon Yousko/Simms) SOLD | Joann, Cascade MT
    
13. SIMMS Homegrown 406 Hoody | $100
    (Thanks Jon Yousko/Simms)...not for retail or public consumption...secret guide stuff!) SOLD | Sarah Firth- Craig, MT
    

You love Craig, we all love Michelle. Do the right thing. Help a sister out! These items will go fast... get on the phone and get involved. We are here from 7am til 9pm daily. 406/235-3447 or toll free 877/379-3597

Yet again, Headhunters Life...

Enjoying the shit out of late summer. Friends, fellowship, and a smattering of fishing tossed in for good measure.

It is really not too bad. We here some sniveling around Craig...really folks, they are out there...find 'em. Get after it!

I know we have told the truth on the fishing report..it is tough. Just like skiing in Cascade Concrete or Sierra Cement. Great learning conditions.

Work on your cast, your drift...look in a different area than you have in the past. Force yourself to move out of your comfort zone and fish my friend.

We will see you here over the Holiday or sooner, this weekend. Remember the 2 bands that will be in Craig for the Holiday, Hot Buttered Rum and The Bridger Creek Boys...Kick-Ass Blue Grass!!

Make sure to take a look at the MW Benefit. Items are diminishing...we will have more. Check out the last couple Blogs and Fishing Reports for the current list.

Thanks again folks, much appreciated.

Missouri River Memories...

Another outstanding Craig MT Morning photo John Arnold

For those of you who have already been blessed by fishing here this year, and for those of you who are yet to...here are a few pics to keep the fire burning.

Beau Strathman w/ a long cast...he got 'em photo Mark Raisler

Status Quo on the Mo. Shitty scenery and small, skinny fish. Oh, well...at least we have Izaak's, Joe's, and one paved road.

Wolf Creek Bridge w/ afternoon sun...impending storm photo Mark Raisler

Capt. Carp Dead Song of the Day: Mighty Quinn...cover

Dry Fly of the Week: Peacock Neversink Trude...for the great profile

Nymph of the Week: Black Military Mayfly...for the sunk Trico's

Headhunters Staff: Well rested and ready for the fall

Headhunters Phone: Keeps on ringing, fall bookings are strong...cannot keep the fisherman down, perpetual optimists are we as anglers...the fish remain huge and need to be taught a lesson

The Village of Craig: Thanks all who have participated in Michelle Wells Benefit...more items coming... Craig Trout Camp Lodging, Bitterroot Skwala Trips, and more!

Headhunters is be raising money for Michelle by offering the following products and services for a fixed donation amount. They will be sold to the first buyer via phone call and offered only once at this time. The goods are as follows...

We all love Michelle and to all who participate in this auction...thanks to all in advance. It is truly appreciated!! The community at large is donating all items to Michelle.
ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO MICHELLE WELLS.

• NEW ITEM Skwala Fishing on the Bitterroot 2010 (Thanks Chris D & 406 Outfitters MBO #6831) Mid-March thru Mid-April 2010. Big Stonefly Dries for Browns $500
  
• NEW ITEM Capt. Carp Trip angling for BIG CARP 2010 w/ C & F Designs Box stuffed w/ Carp Flies (Thanks Evolution Fly Fishing & MK MBO # 11222) $600
  
• NEW ITEM Two (2) nights lodging @ Brown or Rainbow Cabin. (Thanks C & M Jenkins) Downtown Craig, close to everything Trout. $300 SOLD | Jim Arkin, CA
  
• A YETI 45 qt Cooler in color of your choice...White, Tan, Mossy Oak, or Robin's Egg Blue $500
• ECHO 2 9' 5wt Fly Rod w/ 2 tips. A fast & a medium fast...an accuracy and a distance. $500
• HEADHUNTERS Full Day Guide Trip...all inclusive on the Missouri. $500 SOLD | Dennis Hegewald | Spokane, WA
• Full Day Guided Hopper Fishing Trip on the Yellowstone w/ John "Modabi" Dobson in 2010. (Thanks JD w/ GTD Outfitters MBO # 9031) Great guide, great river, great cause. $500
  
• C & F Designs Permit Fly Box stuffed w/ 24 Kick-Ass Missouri River Streamer Flies. $250 - SOLD | Erich Bittmann, Tacoma WA
  
• SIMMS Rivershed Vibram Wading Boot (Thanks JY) $250 SOLD | Joann, Cascade MT
  
• Dinner for 2 at Izaak's - Anything you want from Izaak's delicious menu and all you can drink. (Thanks Izaak's) $250
• SIMMS Homegrown 406 Hoody (Thanks JY)...not avail for Retail or Public Consumption...Secret Guide Stuff! $100 SOLD | Sarah Firth, Craig MT
  
• Three (3) BUFF UV Headwear. Fashion & Function all in a neck garment. $100
• Two (2) Headhunters Hats. His & Hers. Look good at the Family Reunion. $75

You love Craig, we all love Michelle. Do the right thing. Help a sister out! These items will go fast... get on the phone and get involved. We are here from 7am til 9pm daily. 406/235-3447 or toll free 877/379-3597

Thanks a bunch folks...it does not go unnoticed

Don't worry about a thing...

Everything's gonna be alright...true words by Bob Marley. Case in point...Missouri River. Not so great fishing as we speak,the concession is nymphing. Fish gotta eat brother.

Perfect weather prevails throughout the next week...can you come up with a better plan than meandering along a world class tailwater...what more could you ask? If you have to ask...well, I will have to edit the comments rolling around in my infinitesimally minute brain.

Summer is nearing it's end. Boy, I love summer. Fall is Kick-Ass too. Fall Baetis fishing is some of the finest dry fly angling on earth. And it is coming to a famous river near you. If this phenomenon does not make it to your local river, look up the Missouri. You might like it. Don't tell your friends.

Could'ja be, could'ja be, could'ja be loved...idealism or realism...your choice...say somethin', reggae reggae, rasta, rasta...could'ja be, could'ja be, could'ja be loved...

If you are in some sort of life changing or end of season funk...let it hang out friend. And if you are, please don't call me...although if you need a hint...fish...cheaper than a psychotherapist.

Maybe I am in some sort of end of summer funk? Why would this topic even enter my personal stream of consciousness and went the President Reagan direction...Trickle Down Economics. I was an American History major for a number of years, meaning a bunch. Has this concept been smoldering within the interior of my thick skull. There is certainly enough underbrush in there to perpetuate these very small flames...but really mostly just smoke. Sub-conscious thought patterns must dictate most of our decision making processes. Frightening for me...but most likely comes out better in the end. My rational thought is the antithesis of clear thinking.

Stir it up, stir it up, stir it up...little darlin' stir it up...your recipe darlin' is so tasty...

No, I am definitely not in a summertime funk. I just thought I was...based on the mood of the river...but as moods change and evolve, so does the greatest and most fascinating living creature I know...Mother Mo'. Everything is cyclical, including minds and rivers.

Bottom Line: Don't worry about a thing...Dig out those 8 tracks of Bob Marley and the Wailers and chuck them into the gully behind your house. Then pop in the CD, or better yet...tune in the IPod and groove, dance, and jig on your back porch; all the while dreaming about free rising trout and the best damn reach cast you have ever let fly...until your wife gets home.

I wanna love ya', and treat you right...Is this love, is this love, is this love that I'm feeling...So I throw my cards on your table...

Michelle Wells Benefit

An now an update from Craig Montana and how we all can help a dear friend of the Village of Craig, Michelle Wells...the friendliest bartender on the face of the earth.

Michelle has been diagnosed with cancer and the community of Craig is mounting a donation campaign to assist Michelle in her effort to battle this horrific medical condition. Joe's Bar sponsored in event in early August and it was a terrific success raising several thousand dollars towards medical expenses. As I'm sure you understand, this just scratches the surface. Her health insurance will not cover the entire expense of the treatment and that is where we come in. As a result, the community will not stop moving forward until we have exhausted the avenues that are open to us in our campaign for Michelle.

All of the businesses in Craig will be accepting monetary donations throughout Michelle's battle with cancer. Labor Day Weekend will yet again be full of Fly Rodders and any donation amount will be greatly appreciated.

Headhunters will be raising money for Michelle by offering the following products and services for a fixed donation amount. They will be sold to the first buyer via phone call and offered only once at this time. The goods are as follows...

We all love Michelle and to all who participate in this auction...thanks to all in advance. It is truly appreciated!! We are donating all items to Michelle. ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO MICHELLE WELLS.

• A YETI 45 qt Cooler in color of your choice...White, Tan, Mossy Oak, or Robin's Egg Blue $500
• ECHO 2 9' 5wt Fly Rod w/ 2 tips. A fast & a medium fast...an accuracy and a distance. $500
• HEADHUNTERS Full Day Guide Trip...all inclusive on the Missouri. $500 SOLD | Dennis Hegewald | Spokane, WA
• Full Day Guided Hopper Fishing Trip on the Yellowstone w/ John "Modabi" Dobson in 2010. (Thanks Modabi) Great guide, great river, great cause. $500
  
• C & F Designs Permit Fly Box stuffed w/ 24 Kick-Ass Missouri River Streamer Flies. $250 - SOLD Erich Bittmann, Tacoma WA
  
• SIMMS Rivershed Vibram Wading Boot (Thanks JY) $250 SOLD | Joann from Izaak's
  
• Dinner for 2 at Izaak's - Anything you want from Izaak's delicious menu and all you can drink. $250
• SIMMS Homegrown 406 Hoody (Thanks JY)...not avail for Retail or Public Consumption...Secret Guide Stuff! $100 SOLD / Sarah Firth, Craig MT
  
• 3 BUFF UV Headwear. Fashion & Function all in 1 neck garment. $100
• 2 Headhunters Hats. His & Hers. Look good at the Family Reunion. $75

You love Craig, we all love Michelle. Do the right thing. Help a sister out! These items will go fast... get on the phone and get involved. We are here from 7am til 9pm daily. 406/235-3447 or toll free 877/379-3597

Thanks a bunch folks...it does not go unnoticed

Labor Day, Bands, and Your Good Will...

Coming up in Craig Montana in the near future...Labor Day Weekend will be a famous time. Why not come for the fishing, the fun, the BBQ's, the beer, the music, the dancing, and an opportunity to help out a local friend of every resident and traveler of Craig, Montana.

Headhunters Fly Shop and Guide Service will be grilling for most of Labor Day weekend. Impromptu Wiffle Ball, casting comps, bullshitting, shuttles, fishing info, and great guiding. We also have a kick-ass selection of flies and terminal tackle. Call for RV avail. and lodging if you are the sect that like to tip a few back and do not want to drive. The campground is close as well.

Izaak's Restaurant and Bar will be hosting 2 bands that really entertain the fishing crowd. Hot Buttered Rum will be on the porch Wed Sept. 2nd & Thurs. Sept. 3rd. This is a great dance band from San Fransisco that is highly regarded and about to become big. Electric Bluegrass with a mix of Jazz, Fusion, Blues, etc. It is a must attend previous to the weekend...use it as an excuse to sneak out of work early and start your personal party early. Remember, it is Labor Day Weekend, the last big Hoorah of Summer 2009. Don't let it slip you by. Be Smart.

The Bridger Creek Boys out of Bozeman have played here in Craig before and have always been well received. We are excited to see them again and you should be too. They play all the classic Bluegrass tunes and are not afraid of balancing cocktails on their heads while strumming up a hot ditty. They play at Izaak's Saturday Sept. 5th and will fill the joint up.

Michelle Wells Benefit

An now an update from Craig Montana and how we all can help a dear friend of the Village of Craig, Michelle Wells...the friendliest bartender on the face of the earth.

Michelle has been diagnosed with cancer and the community of Craig is mounting a donation campaign to assist Michelle in her effort to battle this horrific medical condition. Joe's Bar sponsored in event in early August and it was a terrific success raising several thousand dollars towards medical expenses. As I'm sure you understand, this just scratches the surface. Her health insurance will not cover the entire expense of the treatment and that is where we come in. As a result, the community will not stop moving forward until we have exhausted the avenues that are open to us in our campaign for Michelle.

All of the businesses in Craig will be accepting monetary donations throughout Michelle's battle with cancer. Labor Day Weekend will yet again be full of Fly Rodders and any donation will be greatly appreciated.

Headhunters will be raising money for Michelle by offering the following products and services for a fixed donation amount. They will be sold to the first buyer via phone call and offered only once at this time. The goods are as follows...

We all love Michelle and thanks to all who participate in this auction...thanks to all in advance. It is truly appreciated!! We are donating all items to Michelle. ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO MICHELLE WELLS.

• A YETI 45 qt Cooler in color of your choice...White, Tan, Mossy Oak, or Robin's Egg Blue $500
• ECHO 2 9' 5wt Fly Rod w/ 2 tips. A fast & a medium fast...an accuracy and a distance. $500
• HEADHUNTERS Full Day Guide Trip...all inclusive on the Missouri. $500
• Full Day Guided Hopper Fishing Trip on the Yellowstone w/ John "Modabi" Dobson in 2010. (Thanks Modabi) Great guide, great river, great cause. $500
  
• C & F Designs Permit Fly Box stuffed w/ 24 Kick-Ass Missouri River Streamer Flies. $250 - SOLD | Erich Bittmann, Tacoma WA
  
• SIMMS Rivershed Vibram Wading Boot (Thanks JY) $250
  
• Dinner for 2 at Izaak's - Anything you want from Izaak's delicious menu and all you can drink. $250
• SIMMS Homegrown 406 Hoody (Thanks JY)...not avail for Retail or Public Consumption...Secret Guide Stuff! $100 SOLD / Sarah Firth, Craig MT
  
• 3 BUFF UV Headwear. Fashion & Function all in 1 neck garment. $100
• 2 Headhunters Hats. His & Hers. Look good at the Family Reunion. $75

You love Craig, we all love Michelle. Do the right thing. Help a sister out! These items will go fast... get on the phone and get involved. We are here from 7am til 9pm daily. 406/235-3447

Thanks a bunch folks...it does not go unnoticed

Failure is a Learning Tool!

Yes, it is. The trout make the ultimate decision. The Missouri is an excellent teacher. It rewards anglers for proper and appropriate techniques. If the fish does not eat the fly, it is not his fault. It's your fault. And it may not be the fly. Most commonly it is not the fly...it is probably your drift.

Our fish do not recognize flies that they do not see. If the fish are eating Trico Spinners and your fly happens to be 1 ft from the fish, he may not eat it. That is a learning tool. Keep in mind that spinners are dead and they do not move contrary to the current. So...drift is KING on the Missouri. Most of the fish are eating dead bugs all day long. Dead bugs do not possess the drag quotient.

A reach casts is the prevalent cast. Any type of slack line presentation is a good starting point. Whether you like to through a S-Cast, Reach, Fall River type of drift, or any sloppy downstream slack-line presentation you desire. Send and Mend my Friend, you will find success.

Failure is a learning tool. Fly fishing is a great sport because it immediately lets you know if you have executed the cast and drift correctly... every single presentation or drift. If the fish did not respond, change something. Not your fly. Get the fly first, not behind or upstream of the leader or tippet. Remember: The first cast and drift is the one you want to hook the fish with.

If you do not succeed with perfect drifts over the fish, not in the Tri-County region, on the fish...then consider changing the fly. Most fish will eat nearly anything perfectly drifted over them. This is not an absolute rule, but does hold water.

One last comment about great drifts and catching fish. Do not cast long, or over/beyond the fish. Try to remove as many things that will promote failure. First: Not having too much line at your feet or on the deck allowing you to make a cast that lines the fish. If you have 55ft. of line off the reel and are only casting 25ft to the fish...there is room for error. Eliminate it. Second: Make sure you have enough line out. Meaning, if you are casting at a fish 25ft away and you only have 20ft of line off the reel...you will have to strip and send during the drift taking yourself out of the game. Doing this usually hitches or drags the fly several times during the drift and spooking the fish...or...the fish eats the fly and we are not ready to strike. Both undesirable outcomes. Eliminate things that can hinder success.

Make a couple practice casts beside the fish allowing yourself to understand the currents and micro-currents that may affect the drift. This also allows you to have the correct amount of line out. Now just inch over to the target. It may take several casts. That is OK. The fish may move to the fly, so let him make that decision. If it is perfectly drifted it may happen. If it is dragging, forget about it. Primarily this time of year when they are eating small dead stuff. July, dragging, yes they may inhale it, but August...No.

Use Failure as a Learning Tool...Humility is not a negative outcome. Use it to your advantage and get better. Fly Fishing is a lifetime sport. Catching fish is only one of the multitude of reasons we pursue this passion, piss off our spouses, and spend far too much money on this crazy behavior...just to put the beautiful, wonderful creature back into the water and reflect on how truly privileged and fortunate we are to reside on Mother Earth.

The bite of the wind off the water. The hum of the mosquitoes buzzing past. The brilliant green of the canopy of nearby trees. The earthy aroma of the water. Fishing is a sport that engages all of the senses.
Unknown Author

Good to be Back!

SOL is back in the neighborhood...the Missouri River & Craig. Boy am I glad to be home. I visited the Yellowstone and Paradise Valley which included a guided trip from Stu Dominick on the Boulder. Wow, what a neat stream. Stu is a consummate professional and I always enjoy fishing with him. Danielle accompanied me on this quick getaway and we enjoyed every aspect of our trip. Generally Capt. Carp and I visit our SW Montana friends, but this year our schedules did not mesh, so having Danielle along was truly nice. She is somewhat new to the fly fishing game and a very quick learner. Females...hmmm...they learn rapidly. New Breed Chicks Rule!!

Now that I am back in Utopia...I cannot wait to throw a fly at our big, and getting bigger, fish. Scumliner and I are fishing this afternoon and hope to get some good video, or at least some laughs.

Vacations are nice. Part of what they achieve is allowing one to realize how special this place is...your home is where you hang your hat...and this is where I hang my hat. I would not rather be anywhere else. There is a lot of world class fishing in the vast expanse of Montana...and I would not take anything away from Montana's other great fisheries...but the bottom line is that the Mo Kicks-Ass.

Capt Carp, The Giant, & "Best Day Ever": Blank @ the Carp Tourney...Hero to Zero...they won it last year...this year, NO.

Strange walk-in Question of the Week: Is 6x to light for a Hopper Rig?

Best Guide Day Ever: Any day you are not rowing the boat!

What not to do at the Boat Ramp: Do not block the ramp, wash your boat, inflate your raft...be courteous, just like you would want others to do.

What not to say at the Boat Ramp: I killed 'em, I'm the best angler of all time, my guide is the greatest...etc, etc...be humble and understand that not everybody crushes them everyday. It's fishing man. We all fish for different reasons...it is not always about the body count. Enjoyment of the day is truly important.

"When we have good luck we come home early, otherwise we stay late and fight it out. How often we are defeated! Everything goes against us and we struggle in vain to conquer adverse conditions, but if we do win out, how pleased we are. We really believe we can fish."
Theodore Gordon

Hunter or Gatherer?

August fishing is often a little slow on the Missouri. Warm water temps and a lack of hatches contribute to this. How do you overcome it? Maybe it's your tactic that's the problem, not the fishing. Far too many anglers search for the "secret fly" instead of searching for the fish. Some anglers are hunters, and some are gatherers. Which one are you?

The ultimate hunter...

Gatherers float down the river and pick up whatever is available. Usually they throw the nymph rig, maybe a hopper, and rarely have a pattern. They catch fish when they run into them. If the trout are not lying in the spots they are throwing, they get skunked. When they don't get them, they immediately head into the fly shop and ask what the secret fly is. When they are shown the same pattern they were using, they claim that it won't work...they already tried it. Technique is not a consideration to the Gatherer. All fishermen are equal...the fly makes the difference.

Hunters are proactive. If they are not getting them, they try to solve the problem. They may switch techniques, change tippet sizes, lengthen or shorten their leader, constantly change flies, spot fish from high banks, throw a streamer in the sun, change the amount of weight on a nymph rig, swing a soft hackle, try some new water...they often think outside the box. They do what others don't.

Hunters often stop fishing and observe. They observe other anglers, insects, fish, birds, sun angles, shady pockets and sunny flats. They try to spot fish in fast riffles. They wait an hour for a rise in a likely spot. They look for the "other" bugs. When PMD's are hatching big but the fish are rising sporadically, the Hunter sees the occasional Callibaetis drift by. He notices all the flying ants in the bushes. He sees the river drop 2 inches even though he was too far from the Dam to hear the siren.

The Hunter realizes that some days are going to be tough. He goes and looks for a big single Brown Trout, and spends the day trying to get him to eat. He knows that big trout like to sit under weed mats. He stares into skinny water looking for the slightest movement that indicates a fish eating nymphs. He takes him time. He's Patient. He applies what he has experienced in the past. He doesn't get excited when a 2 footer sticks his nose up because he's been there. He gets 'em.

Watch the Osprey. He's a Hunter.

Yes, I Wrote That!

Apparently, some people don't believe that I wrote the "Do Something Nice for your Wife" entry below. They have a problem believing that John Arnold has a sensitive side. Well, I did write that and I can be sensitive if I want to. I just rarely want to. Now you know...

Do Something Nice for your Wife

My wife and I have been together for almost 20 years. Birthday's around our house rarely consist of more than a B-Day card and dinner (usually at a restaurant we go to all the time anyway). Julie's Birthday is August 14th, right in the middle of guide season for both of us. Not really a lot of time to plan a big celebration. Hell, I can't even find the time to go buy her a gift!

LOG Guide Jason Newmack shows one of the many fine Rainbows
Julie Caught on her Birthday.

This year, for some reason, I felt like doing something special for her. Why? I don't know. Maybe because she's a great Mom. Maybe because she's a great wife. Maybe because Headhunters could have been a disaster instead of a huge success without her. Or, maybe it's just because she deserves it...

Those who know Julie know that she used to fish almost daily. As we grow older and share more responsibilities, we just don't seem to find the time to go as much as we should. With the arrival of our daughter Adair 4 years ago, we almost never find the time to get out on the water by ourselves, and I know that Julies misses it.

For her birthday, I decided to do something special. I hired my friend Jason Newmack to take us up to the "Land of the Giants" (LOG). For those who don't know, the LOG is a short section of the Missouri that holds some enormous fish. Access is by jet boat. Though it's very close to us, we rarely get up there.

Julie immediately nymphed up some monster Whitefish, a beautiful 20" Brown, and a bunch of 20-21" Rainbows. After Jason grilled up some burgers for lunch, and a rowdy T-Storm passed through, we switched to streamers and she caught several more big Rainbows and a Walleye. That's right, the Birthday girl caught the LOG Slam (Rainbow, Brown, Whitey, Walleye).

We then ran into a 25" Brown sipping PMD's. Julie put a lot of good cast over him and finally got him to eat. Unfortunately, he caught us all off guard with a downstream eat and Julie only pricked him. No matter, as we were leaving, yours truly saw him stick his head up 30 feet downstream and stuck him on a streamer.

When the day ended, we all headed back to Rockey Top (our home) where Julie was surprised to find many of our friends from the area waiting for her. Ben cooked the meat (excellent), Kelsey made some fantastic sides, Jesse handled the cake, and Jen handled the kids.

It really felt great to something special for my wife. The fact that I rarely do anything at all for her probably has something to do with it. Besides making my wife happy and me feel good, the river paid me back a little (see right). Maybe you should do something nice for your wife...

Happy Birthday Julie. The next one sucks (40!)...

ps...I'll be handling the Blog while SOL is on vacation for a couple of days.

Any way you want it!

The beauty of the Missouri is that we take all comers. Bait Wompers, Lure Chuckers, Fly Whippers...we love them all.
I commonly over hear folks criticizing guys and gals that do not toss the fly. Get over yourselves...really.

"I can't believe that you let those guys fish with bait!" My answer, "You understand that those folks live here. And until you live here and are able to vote and support the state 12 months a year, you have no voice."

There is enough room for all who enjoy this fabulous resource...be respectful of others, and they will be respectful of your passions and desires as well. Pretentouisness does not have any place in this business...we are in it for the long haul and welcome those who choose the beat of their own drummer.

Come and enjoy however you want to enjoy...It's any way you want it!

Trico Mornings...Caddis Evenings

The bugs are here, evidenced by the photo on the right. Are the fish active...hmmm...you be the judge. Last post shows you the evening caddis mating orgies...and this morning another sex filled melee.

For an up to the minute fishing report, phone the shop @406/235-3447 or if you want to go the toll free route 877/DRY-FLYS

Headhunters Life

Do you live it? More importantly...do you love it? The answer should be yes. If you answered no, disregard this entry and go back to your couch...the Bon-Bons are melting rapidly and your 3 year old has chocolate smeared all over his face and embedded in your Barcalounger.

We @ Headhunters believe everybody should catch more fish and are here with bells on daily enjoying the Headhunters Life...

As a side note: The hopper fishing has been outstanding if you are willing to stick with it. We had a slow down of two days which really freaked us out. But, we are back. This river will fool you in the fact that it fishes so well 90% of the time, and then it slows for a short period, meaning 2.3 hours...and we, as guides freak out. Another thing that may tweak out your guide is Izaak's/ Joe's running out of Bombay Sapphire, Crown Royal, and Ketel One all in the same evening. Don't even talk to me if that happens. If they ran out of Budweiser we would alert the Governor.

Q: What's worse than a hungover guide in the morning? A: A sober one.

Q: Is Craig always this friendly? A: It sure is! Now saddle up to the bar my friend and buy me
another.

Headhunting for many has become a way of life for many of us on the Missouri and we encourage you to be a part of it. We don't want you to move here...just visit several times a year.

I really tried to write something abrasive tonight, but truly cannot conjure up enough demons to rip on anybody tonight...so this is the drivel that dribbles from my finger tips. Lovey Dovey Shit. I'm a touch disappointed in myself. It'll come...I just do not know when.

Capt. Carp: Should grow a backbone...he may...probably not.

FNG: Invincible, indestructible, invisible...just show up to work on time and I'll be happy.

The Boss: Is on vacation on the Eastern Seaboard, please do not get arrested. My CC is maxed out if the Bail Bondsman calls.

B & E Ben: Kickin' Ass and Takin' Names...he is not part of the shit show that sometimes occurs in Craig, MT.

Scumliner: Is smiling every moment. He likes it that way.

SOL: Still trying to rid himself of the mind numbing DEMONS.

J the B: Holding it all together amidst the mayhem and madness.

"Oh, the gallant fisher's life, It is the best of any 'Tis full of pleasure, void of strife, And 'tis beloved by many."

John Chalkhill, "Pistacor's Song"

What Has YETI Done Now?

We've just recieved our latest shipment from YETI Coolers! AS usual, we have all Tundra models from 15 to 85QT (plus the monster 250QT). The new colors, however, are the big story. For the Rednecks out there, and we know who you are, YETI has the Tundra in a Realtree Camo top/tan bottom combination. Keep your beers hidden from wary Northern Mallards or Bull Elk!
For the Saltwater crowd, light blue is the new color. Why it's cool, I'm not sure. It did recieve plenty of oohs and ahhs from customers as we broke it out. Come check them out at Headhunters. We only got a couple of them in these new colors...first come, first served.

Are you Serious?

Internationally know fly fishing guide Michael "Mitch" Kowalski was in Headhunters the other morning (as usual), and ran into these University of Montana fans. Upon recognizing Mitch as a member of the Grizz National Championship Football team, they immediately produced a U of M cycling jersey? for him to sign. #35 in your program...but #1 in your hearts....

Seriously, did this really happen? I was there, but without the pic's I couldn't swear that it really did.

3 Reasons to Visit...

Only 3 Reasons? You could sit on your couch and fantasize...or you could make the right decision and book your plane ticket immediately. Your choice. Didn't your mother teach you better...it is really up to you my friend.

Do the right thing...

Fishing is at once the ultimate quest, the ultimate joy, the ultimate frustration. And true anglers wouldn't have it any other way.

Great Clients make the World Go Round!

Mike Ruppert fishes with SOL a lot. Twice a month is about all he can handle...as for SOL, his skin is damn tough. In all honesty, Mike is a great client.

As a guide matures, he becomes mentally stronger, physically weaker...and as for the maturing deal, the jury is still out. Regular guests in the boat is what every guide strives for, and Mike is part of the enjoyment for SOL.

Bert and Arnie have also fished with me going on 10 years...I have nothing but love for these two as well. The list is long, and getting longer with favorite people in the boat. All guides have their gang...it does take quite some time to acquire long term clients...they too have a selection process...as many of them say, "It takes some time to train a guide to how you like them!" It is so true. It may take longer to train your guide than it does for the guide to train the guest. It is reciprocal love along with give and take.

Many a fisherman has said that the longer you fish with anybody...whether it be with your fishing partner including a guide, or you son, daughter, Uncle, or your neighbor...the longer you fish with said individual the less it has to do with catching, the more it becomes about fellowship and friendship.

It truly is what fishing really is all about...catching a few smelly Rainbows and chewing the fat.

"Fishing with an old man in bib overalls and a can of worms is a great day."

Rick Myers

Capt. Carp Dead Song of the Day: Not fade away

Fly Rod Wisdom of the Day: It's not what you cast, it's how you cast

Wise Old Fisherman once said: "Placement and Presentation over Fly Pattern wins everyday"

Dry Fly Pattern of the Week: Wilcox's A/C Caddis

Nymph Pattern of the Week: Harrop's Soft Hackle

Hopper Pattern of the Week: Burke's Spent Hopper

Beer Flavor of the Decade: Budweiser

A Special Place...Special Times

The Missouri and Craig MT are both special places...outstanding river, knowledgeable fly rodders, some not so knowledgeable...a special place to learn...with rewards for the appropriate fishing behaviors.

August is a great time of year to visit the Mo. Fewer anglers, plenty of rising fish...some are difficult...and that is why we love fishing so much. Tough fish are rewarding fish.

Hopper feeding fish are always enjoyable to catch. Big bugs and big flies. Yes, they are on the hopper. Fish it with your favorite trailer fly. Whether it be a nymph dropper, or a slippery sliding caddis..it's all good.

As I mentioned above, there are far fewer folks around this time of year. The kids are returning to school, it is family vacation time...so therefore it is your time to be here. Solace can be found on most parts of the river...boy, that is nice.

Picture above and right is SOL with a respectable Brown on a Hopper...I fed him, and he cooperated...yes, SOL does fish occasionally

Craig and Baseball: Both sports where time has no bearing

Stupid Guide Behavior of the Day: Not taking the time to take the toothpick out of the Club Sandwich before eating it. Standard.

Thankful Guide comment about 10 Year Clients: Thank you, appreciate you making my car payment, and bar tab for that matter, for the last 10 years. Thank You!

Capt. Carp: Is fishing for Carp with a Rio Carp Line...and gettin' 'em

Dry Fly of the Month: Morrish's Hopper

Nymph of the Week: Hogan's Military Mayfly

ED NOTE: Previous entry about Stars Wars and such written by B & E Ben, I like it!

Brown trout, Star Wars and Streamer fishing

There are several conversational constants that occur on nearly every guide trip with an unfamiliar client.

I will ask what they do for a living.
They will ask me where I'm from.
I'll tell them how many trout per mile are in the Missouri.
They'll ask me how long I've been guiding for.

This is protocol. Its scripted. Not to say that its not enjoyable, which it certainly is. Eventually, normally directly following the former two questions, they'll ask me how I ended up guiding fly fishermen in Craig, Montana. Its a perfectly reasonable question, and one that I've put alot of thought into without any substantial progress on an answer. I've lived the backstory and i've come up with a couple of theories.

"How does a guy from Massachusetts end up guiding the Missouri?"

The dry humorist in me usually answers

"I've made alot of bad decisions" or "Im not really sure, I had a few too many cocktails at Fenway one afternoon and woke up five years later in Craig" or my personal favorite would be "I'm not actually a guide, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn express last night." Jokes, all jokes, but each of these answers does have a grain of truth in it.

The best answer to the question that I've come up with has alot to do with Brown trout, Star Wars and Streamer fishing.

If a 22 inch Brown trout is Obi-Wan Kenobi, then a 15 inch rainbow is an ewok. They're both on the same side. They're both a boatload of fun to catch. The force is with both of them. That 15 inch rainbow is a lot more likely to run real fast and jump eight feet out of the water. The rainbow will make some bad decisions. He'll jump three feet out of the water to eat a single caddis. You don't see many Big Browns free jumping and eating cottonwood. When they eat on the surface its barely visible sometimes. They're calculated. They don't waste energy. I'd love to say that I ended up guiding in Craig because I live like a big Brown trout; that I'm here through a series of calculated intelligent choices, conserved my energy and made great decisions. The truth is that Im probably more similiar to the rainbow. I react. I make instinct calls. I dont take the long view. I eat. I get caught. Then the next day, i get caught again. I get a little smarter as time passes, maybe I don't eat a rainbow czech nymph every day anymore. Maybe i want a pheasant tail with a glass bead or one of those fancy new mercer patterns.

OK, I've got it- I live like a huge Brown eating a streamer. Dont think about it, be about it.

Some people are 15 inch rainbows, some are 24 inch Browns. Still others are Keys Permit or spooky Downtown Bonefish. They're cautious, they think hard about what they eat, they have a plan to move with the tides and they stick to it. I am in awe of these people. I respect the hell out of someone who can formulate a five year plan and accomplish it in four. These people make the world go around.

The fact is that Im not sure I every had any choice but to guide fishermen on the Missouri and I wouldn't have it any other way.