June in Southwest Montana is magic. The Big Hole River is coming alive — and not just with rising trout. Towering Salmonflies and Golden Stones kick off one of the most exciting times of the year for anglers. If you've never seen a two-inch-long bug fluttering through the cottonwoods or watched a brown trout cartwheel on a foam Stonefly, now’s the time.
🐛 The Hatch That Shakes the River
Salmonflies (Pteronarcys Californica) and Golden Stoneflies are the heavyweights of the aquatic insect world. After living for multiple years as nymphs in clean, rocky river bottoms, they emerge in dramatic fashion when water temps climb in June. The hatch moves upstream, often beginning in the lower Big Hole and progressing day by day.
These insects are critical to the ecosystem — their presence indicates clean, healthy water. For trout, they’re a protein-packed feast that often leads to aggressive, surface-driven feeding behavior. Fishing big foam dries like Chubby Chernobyls or Rogue Stones can yield the kind of visual eats we all dream about.
🎁 Father’s Day is Coming – Give the Gift of Fishing
Father’s Day weekend (June 15–16) is free fishing weekend in Montana — no license required. It’s the perfect chance to introduce Dad or the kids to fly fishing or to plan a river day without the paperwork.
Need a gift for the old man (or yourself)? We’ve got you covered:
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Bajio Sunglasses – Brand new in the shop! These polarized lenses cut glare like nothing else and help you spot fish with ease.
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Grundéns Sunwear – Lightweight, breathable, and UPF-rated protection. Stay cool and covered on long summer floats.
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Fly Line Care Kits & Replacements – A fresh or conditioned fly line casts farther, floats higher, and fishes better. Don't let a cracked line ruin your drift this summer.
Swing by the shop in Butte or check out www.thestonefly.com to grab the perfect gear for Dad — or for your own next adventure.
🌞 Gear Spotlight: Beat the Heat with Grundéns + Bajio
Sun protection is fishing protection. As the weather warms, staying cool, dry, and shaded isn’t just about comfort — it’s about performance.
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Grundéns Hooded Tech Shirts & Pants are built for anglers, with quick-dry fabric, anti-odor treatments, and UPF 50+ coverage.
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Bajio Sunglasses feature color-enhancing polarization, ultra-lightweight frames, and blue-light blocking lenses to reduce eye fatigue.
Whether you’re chasing Salmonflies on the Big Hole or hiking into Rock Creek, quality sunwear keeps you on the water longer and seeing better.
🎣 Pro Tip: Condition or Replace That Fly Line
Before your first float of the season, inspect your fly line. Cracks, discoloration, or poor float mean it’s time for a new one — or at least a good cleaning. A smooth, clean line means better mending, longer casts, and more fish.
We carry the latest from Scientific Anglers and Rio — plus cleaners and conditioners to get you back in the game.
💬 Call to Action:
Stop by The Stonefly in Butte for your June essentials, or order online at www.thestonefly.com. We’re stocked, sun-ready, and always happy to help you gear up for a great day on the water.
