Now that spring has sort of sprung in central Montana and ice is working its way off the banks in most areas lots of folk asking about some of the awesome freestone opportunities in the area. I’m right there with em’. Don’t get we wrong, theirs nothing wrong with the Missouri river, it’s just time for a change of pace. One of those “it’s not you, it’s me” type of situations.  I fish the MO more often in the winter with the colder temps closing up some of my favorite local freestone but with the weekend looking like it is, highs in the 60s to 70s in many spots, I’m heading over the divide. I won’t tell you where but I will tell you my day will involve studded soles, bear spray (yeah they’re out), and stop at either P-Burg Brewery, Trixi’s Antler Saloon or the Bootlegger Casino. That’s not to mention a box of furry, leggy, some floating but mostly sinking, flashy trout snacks.  10 humble suggestions for all you freestoners heading west this weekend….

Top: Royal Stimulator #14, Peacock P.M.X #12

Middle: Tiger Worm #10, Copper John #16, Double Bead Hare’s Ear #12, Pats Rubber Leg #10, Trout Retriever #8

Bottom: Blooms M.R.S Bugger #4, Yuk-Bug #6, JJ Special #6

~Cheers, Chewy