Casting Lines & Leaving No Trace: Carroll College Fly Fishing on the Missouri

On May 2nd, 2026, a group of Carroll College students traded their finals studying for a river current, embarking on a memorable fly fishing float along the Missouri River. Guided by Isaac and I, the outing stretched from Craig, MT to Mid Canon, blending outdoor recreation with hands-on stewardship in one of Montana’s most treasured landscapes. 

This outing brought together 15 student participants for a full day of fly-fishing, river exploration, and environmental service. We floated a scenic section of the Missouri River, stopping at the put-in and take-out to grab trash bags and work together to clean up the riverbanks, leaving each site better than we found it.

The Missouri River near Craig is widely known for its world-class fly fishing and breathtaking views. It was the perfect setting to combine recreation and responsibility. The outing was designed to connect students with the outdoors in a meaningful way, showing them that enjoying natural spaces and protecting them go hand in hand.

The weather could not have been better. Clear skies, warm sun, and calm water created ideal conditions for both fishing and floating. Students had great success casting lines, with several catching nice trout throughout the day. But beyond the fish stories, what stood out most was the shared sense of purpose. 

One memorable moment came when the group filled multiple trashbags at a heavily used access point. What started as a quick stop turned into a powerful reminder of how small actions can create visible change. Students expressed pride in their efforts and surprise at how much waste they were able to remove in such a short time. 

Participants left the outing feeling refreshed, accomplished, and more connected. Many shared that the combination of recreation and stewardship made the experience more meaningful than a typical day outdoors. 

This outing didn’t just result in cleaner riverbanks, but sparked a deeper appreciation for conservation among participants. By combining fun with purpose, students walked away with a stronger sense of responsibility for the places they love.