Spring Fly Fishing in Montana: Your Complete April 2025 Stillwater River Guide

As a 2024 ORVIS® Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge of the Year Finalist, we're bringing you the ultimate guide to April fly fishing on Montana's Stillwater River. While our lodge sits along the East Rosebud, our expert guides specialize in the nearby Stillwater River, as well as our other expansive home waters, offering some of Montana's most productive spring fishing.

April Fishing Conditions on the Stillwater
The first half of April 2025 presents premium fishing conditions on the Stillwater River before the spring runoff.
Our Orvis-certified guides target:

• Deep boulder-strewn runs (4-8 feet)
• Protected pocket water and seams
• Famous "Boulder Section" holding waters

• Prime rainbow and brown trout habitat

The Legendary Mother's Day Caddis Hatch
Mid-to-late April brings Montana's most anticipated hatch to the Stillwater River. Our guides monitor daily water temperatures, targeting the crucial 50-degree sweet spot when massive caddis hatches create world-class dry fly opportunities along the river's diverse structure.

Technical April Stillwater River Tactics

Nymphing Techniques (Morning)

• Heavy stonefly patterns for deep pocket water (sizes 6-12)
• Double-nymph rigs with rubber legs (sizes 14-18)
• Recommended leader: 2X-3X with fluorocarbon tippet
• Focus on boulder edges and seams
• Key depths: 4-8 feet in main channels

Blue-Winged Olive Hatches (Midday)

• Pattern sizes: 16-20
• CDC wing variations for rough water
• Parachute style for visibility in pocket water
• 5X leaders for spring presentation

• Target foam lines behind boulders

Mother's Day Caddis Tactics (Afternoon)

• Adult caddis patterns: sizes 14-16
• Elk Hair Caddis in dark olive
• Soft-hackle swing through seams
• Emerger patterns during initial hatch
• 4X leaders for rough water durability

Streamer Fishing (Evening)

• Articulated patterns 4-6 inches
• Heavy sink-tip lines (250-300 grain)
• Strip-pause retrieve in pocket water
• Focus on boulder-created structure
• Bank-to-bank coverage in deeper runs

Luxury Montana Fishing Lodge Experience
- Return from the Stillwater to our private lodge setting
- Gourmet farm-to-table dining featuring Montana ingredients
- Premium accommodations: Historic Log Lodge and Canvas Cabins
- Full-service Orvis fly shop with latest gear and expert advice

Conservation and Responsible Fishing
Our commitment to sustainable fishing practices ensures the preservation of the Stillwater River for future generations. All guides follow Orvis-endorsed conservation guidelines during the critical spawning season.

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FAQ's

Q: What are the typical April conditions on the Stillwater River?
A: Early April water temperatures range from 40-46°F, with clarity varying based on location. Mid-month sees temperatures rise to 46-50°F, perfect for caddis hatches. The boulder-strewn nature of the river provides consistent fishing opportunities even during moderate runoff.

Q: What fishing equipment should I bring for the Stillwater?
A: All of your gear and equipment are included as a part of your ALL INCLUSIVE package.  What you will likely use is:

• 6-weight rod for better line control in wind
• Floating line with heavy sink-tip option
• Selection of 2X-5X leaders
• Sturdy wading staff for boulder navigation

• Waders rated for cold water

Q: How do you handle spring runoff conditions?
A: The Stillwater's boulder-pocket structure provides fishable water even during moderate runoff. We also have access to clearer sections and can adjust locations based on conditions. Our diverse home water options, including private spring creeks, ponds, and local rivers,  ensure productive fishing throughout the spring runoff season, with our experienced guides selecting the best options based on daily conditions and your fishing preferences. 

Q: What hatches can I expect besides Mother's Day Caddis?
A: April features:

• Blue-Winged Olives (size 16-20)
• March Browns (size 12-14)
• Early Golden Stones (size 8-12)

• Midges throughout the day (size 18-22)

Q: What's your approach to Stillwater River wade fishing?
A: Following Orvis guidelines, we emphasize safe wading techniques in pocket water, proper approach angles to avoid spooking fish, and strategic positioning for optimal drift presentation.

Q: How do you structure a typical guided day on the Stillwater River?
A:Our guided days are carefully crafted adventures that blend serious fishing with Montana-style fun:
Morning Kickoff 

• Meet at the lodge for fresh-brewed Montana coffee
• Quick gear check and fishing license verification
• Weather report and hatch prediction pow-wow

The Morning Session 

• Start with the "Boulder Ballet" - learning to navigate Stillwater's pocket water
• Focus on productive nymphing runs while waiting for hatches
• Pictures, pictures, and more pictures - capture the memories

Legendary Lunch Break 

• Delicious streamside lunch at scenic spots
• Share morning fish stories (they get bigger by lunch!)
• Quick lesson on identifying river bugs while digesting

Afternoon Action 

• "The Stillwater Shuffle" - moving between prime spots
• Photography sessions with your catches, scenery, and fun
• Wildlife spotting 
• One more cast....or 5 more!

The Wind Down

• Return to the lodge for appetizers and beverages
• Share photos and stories from the day
• Plan tomorrow's adventure (if you're staying multiple days)

Guide's Secret Sauce:

• We adjust this schedule based on weather, water conditions, and your energy level
• Each guide has their own lucky spots and traditions they'll share
• We're known for our "Fish Tales & Trail Mix" breaks between spots

Remember: While we take our fishing seriously, we believe the best days on the Stillwater are filled with laughs, learning, and making memories. As we say at Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, "A bad day of fishing still beats a good day at work!"

Book Your April 2025/2026 Montana Fly Fishing Adventure
Reserve your spring Stillwater River experience now. Our intimate lodge setting accommodates just 18 guests, ensuring personalized attention and expert guidance. Contact us at (406) 642-0184 or click below to visit our website and secure your dates.

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