I?m Vern. Although I currently reside in Billings Montana, my roots are deep in the gumbo soil of the Missouri breaks.
For much of the year my employer is Montana State University at Billings. Part of my role as an educator is to improve my fishing client?s success during the trip by teaching the techniques and strategies that will improve your skills for a lifetime. I have often found that the little things make such a big difference when pursuing the ever elusive walleye ? my preferred target species. I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to fish walleye waters in many of the Midwest states; including Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana as well as Canadian waters. My experiences have allowed me to become a better angler, and have deepened my love for Fort Peck. Not only will your trip include experiencing the variety of fishing opportunities on Fort Peck, you will also experience the vastness of the Missouri breaks and surrounding countryside. I have a deep history with the area allowing me to share with you geographic and geological information about the reservoir and surrounding area. In addition to the day of fishing my knowledge and background of the dam history and construction often result in very interesting discussions.
I feel that one of the keys to success during the day on the water is a result of a continual effort to do the little things better. You may have heard of finding a good spot to fish. I often look for the spot on the good spot. That spot where the fish are keying in on something. It may be as subtle as a patch of vegetation and as small as half of the boat. It is very common for guests who choose a three day fishing trip to see a trophy one of those three days.
Of all the possible presentation methods, my preferred method of fishing ? and catching ? is the use of a leadhead jig and live bait. Experience has taught me a few key things to improve the success of hooking and landing fish during the day. Those small things can mean the difference from only a couple of fish at the end of the day, rather than a limit. As the summer months warm the waters of Fort Peck the fish tend to relate less to typical structure and become more scattered. As a result I will generally alter my presentation method to one that can more effectively cover a large area of water. This method is most often some trolling method utilizing a wire/lead bottom bouncer rig, and custom designed bait rig.
Whether the fish and weather cooperate or not, you can be assured that your day on the water will be an enjoyable one. I always have said that the best time to go fishing is any time that you can.
See you on the water!