Blog

There aren’t a lot of days during the year that we all get off work to fish together, and then the chances of us being able to all go fishing on those days is even less with families and significant others these days. However, New Year’s Day has become tradition since the first year we started the fly shop (Photos from 2011 aqui). Of course, this is the day after New Year’s Eve parties and it has never been an early start, and usually the weather is near... Read more

Cornfed just got back from the dam, and boy did he put a hurt on those planters.  How did he manage?  Well, a little patience, the right flies, some advice from the boys down at Great Falls Big R, and a handy new rod, reel, and line combo from Loop.  The best part about it is, Cornfed had this rod put in his hand for only $250.  If you are looking to upgrade from that old 6 ½ foot fiberglass rod you found in your grandpa's garage, this combo is set at a great price,... Read more

So, our friend Yard over at the shooting head featured us, Big R Fly Shop, on his first "Fly Shop Friday" blog.  Yard is a hardcore fisherman that will go to any length to catch fish.  He loves fishing for steelhead more than anyone I know.  I have not had the pleasure of fishing with him yet, but I am sure it is in our near future.  Be sure to check out his blog.  It is extremely entertaining and always has off the wall... Read more

Good morning to all you 'wake up early the day after Christmas and check Missouri River fishing blogs to see what you missed out on yesterday' hardcore anglers.  For me, this Christmas was very different than any I had ever had the pleasure of living through thus far.  It was the first year I didn't make the long drive or short flight back to the land of cheeses and packaged meats (chalk up another pack attack.)  When working the week before and week following Christmas Day, this... Read more

I know I like, and I know you like.  Patagonia mixes fresh design and comfort in these new solar shirts at Big R Fly shop.  Weather you are hunting for Tarpon or wading to a pod on the Mo, this knit is perfect.  Not only will you look good in action, but you will feel good.  All you have to do is try one on, and you will know what i'm talking about.  Match this hot buy up with a brim, some sun gloves, a pair of Costa frames, and your next salt guide might be... Read more

For the average guy there are 2 ways to trick trout with both hands on the rod. One is on the swing, and the other nymphing. There are plenty of opinions out there on using two handed rods to nymph with an indicator, and if it’s not your thing…it’s not your thing. I personally would rather swing, but if my buddy is bent consistently for hours, and I’m coming up empty I will admit I like to catch fish…especially when it’s cold (when it’s... Read more

Jungle Cock is now finally in stock at Big R Fly Shop. After some trouble trying to find a source for Jungle Cock eyes we finally have some inventory in both Great Falls, MT and Ponderay, ID fly shops. Currently in stock: Jungle Cock Nails in small, medium, and large – $9.99 Jungle Cock Deluxe Grade #2 Cape – $199.99 We have never stocked these before because of the price of these things. However, we have had quite a few requests this... Read more

If you have never seen Location X by Howard films, you need to.  Huge Tarpon, humbling power, great anglers.  Come check this film out at the shop, along with a variety of other great fishing flicks.  Thanks to everyone for supporting our shop this winter.  A few of us are fishing tomorrow on the town bicylcle (15' white maroon and black clack.)  Join us for a shoreside bbq and a beer.  Read more

We’ve had a pretty mild fall so far in Great Falls which has lead to more December fishing than usual. Streamers and nymphs have been the methods of mayhem on the Missouri this fall/winter. Today it was 45 degrees at 8am… so we will be on the water.   The Good: Here is the alternative to pink or firebead selection (pictured left to right). Soft Hackle Dead Ray – Ray Charles with a turn of soft hackle, and a hint of orange or pink in the... Read more

Fred got papa, Paul got Mama.  Read more