Often here at Sunrise Fly Shop we are asked about Grayling. If you want the experience of catching the only native Arctic Grayling in the Lower 48 states, now is the time to start planning your trip! Early fall is an excellent time for wade anglers to target Arctic Grayling on the Big Hole River.
The Big Hole River during the fall boasts some of the best wade fishing in Southwest Montana. Going into fall season the lower flows make floating the upper sections troublesome, yet, for the wade angler the river is wide open. The Grayling also become significantly more aggressive in the fall as the water temperatures start to drop.
A word of warning – the rocks are notoriously slippery. The water levels being lower mean traversing them will be a lot easier, but it is recommended by our guides to use a wading staff to help. Felt soles also work well in the river, but please be responsible when using them to avoid the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species.
The longer nights and cooler temps make the water safer for the fish than earlier in the summer. This makes for a more active and healthy fish. Not to mention, these fish are hungry! The terrestrial bite on the Upper sections of the Big Hole River, and her tributaries are producing some excellent results. With miles of access upstream of Dickie Bridge, you will be able to find countless places to chase Grayling and their trout brethren.
Another option for Grayling, are the alpine lakes. Many of the surrounding lakes in the Big Hole Valley are teeming with Grayling. The Grayling found in these lakes come from the brood stock of the Big Hole River, not a hatchery. Making these fish wild and native. We make no promises about finding Grayling in the river. However, those that venture to the lakes will almost have a sure bet on finding them.
Since The Big Hole River is a freestone, conditions can change hourly. In order to give you the best opportunity to meet one of these rare fish, stop by our shop, and we can give you the latest information. Our hours are between 7:30 am and 3:00 pm , 7 days a week.
The expert staff at Sunrise Fly Shop can point you in the right direction and give you an idea of what the fish are keyed up on or actively eating. There are lot of river miles to cover here, and we know every one of them. Allow us to help make sure you have the best opportunity for Arctic Grayling in the Big Hole Valley this fall.
