Gibson Dam Tailwateron Sun River
October Caddis
- 01October Caddis, BWOs, and Mahogany Duns are becoming active.
- 02Terrestrial fishing (hoppers, ants) remains strong along banks.
- 03River flows are unstable due to irrigation, requiring careful water selection.
- 04Air temperature is a comfortable 53°F and overcast.
- 05Nymphing with Flashback Hare's Ear and Zebra Midges is consistently effective.
What to tie on at Gibson Dam Tailwater
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
October Caddis (Dry)
Regional intelligence indicates larger October Caddis are becoming a significant factor in fall, making this a prime dry fly for the Sun River.
Buy at AmazonBlue-Winged Olive (BWO) Comparadun
Regional intelligence suggests BWOs are beginning to appear, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults during fall hatches.
Buy at AmazonSchroeder’s Parachute Hopper
Terrestrial fishing remains strong in early fall, and hoppers are a substantial food source, as indicated by regional reports.
Chernobyl Ant
Terrestrial fishing, including ants, remains strong in early fall according to regional intelligence.
Buy at AmazonMahogany Dun
Regional reports indicate Mahogany Dun patterns are starting to appear in fall, offering dry fly opportunities for trout.
Buy at AmazonJujubaetis
This is a top-tier Baetis nymph, effectively mimicking the small mayflies that are actively emerging and drifting subsurface in the Sun River during spring.
Buy at AmazonMicro Egg
Trout in the Sun River will key on egg patterns during the spring rainbow spawn, making this small egg imitation particularly effective now.
Buy at AmazonMother's Day Caddis
The prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected to be peaking in late April through May across Western rivers, making this a crucial dry fly for the Sun River.
Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days like today, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Montana season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.