AO in February: You’re the Reel Catch of the Day! 🎣💕
Get your Valentine an AO Fishing Trip Gift Card Here!
. . . OR treat yourself to a fishing trip! :)
Either way, let’s get fishin’! The weather is looking beautiful over the next few weeks, and thanks to warmer temperatures, we’re starting our guide trips earlier in the season than usual. With days in the 45-55°F range, conditions are perfect.
Cabin fever? We get it, we’re just as antsy as you to get out on the water. Especially Kalama, he’s already in a cleaning frenzy with his fly boxes! We have guide trips lined up for February and March, so if you’re ready to get out there sooner rather than later, let’s make it happen!
Photography by AO Guide Jon Onken
How’s the Water Looking this Year?
The snowpack report gives us a snapshot of how much snow is in Montana’s mountains, which helps us predict what the fishing season might look like. On the map, green areas indicate slightly above-average water reserves, while yellow areas are slightly below average. Tailwater sections currently have less water than ideal, but the reservoir helps store water for fisheries later in the season. Freestone rivers are looking better, with most in the high 80s to low 90s and plenty of winter left to reach 100%. Since freestone areas rely more on snowpack, the good snow there is encouraging.
Overall, the snowpack isn’t as concerning as it might first appear, but if your schedule allows, we still recommend hitting the water early!
Other Exciting Updates!
We’ve got a new captain in our crew! Woop woop! Kalama Flagg — AO guide, business partner and brother to Ikaika Flagg — just completed his captain’s license. This means we will be exploring more waters and expanding our horizons to find hidden gems like Land of the Giants. We are also hoping to offer more power boat options in the near future.
Applications for the 2026 Montana Smith River float trip lottery close February 15th! If you want to run a trip on this beautiful section, make sure to submit your $15 application today on Montana FWP’s online lottery page to get your name in the raffle. Spots are limited, and the lottery is the only way to secure a permit, so don’t wait. Check Montana FWP’s instructions and rules before submitting to make sure your application is complete.
Check out the 2026 Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T)! F3T is an annual traveling showcase of short films and documentaries featuring the best fly fishing from around the world. Think of it as a film festival for fly fishing, highlighting epic fishing adventures, stunning scenery, and conservation stories from all over the country. Catch a screening near you and experience the thrill of the river on the big screen!
