Bitterroot River Fishing Report

Tip of the Week:

Spring conditions are variable and can impact fish location and feeding activity. If you aren't finding fish in your usual spots, try fishing seams, pocket water, shelves, drop offs, and riffles, as rising water levels and fluctuating water temperatures can cause fish to relocate.  Water temperature, speed, and depth should all factor into where you decide to throw that first cast.

*See our 7 Day Outlook for updates on blockages jamming up the Bitterroot. 

7 Day Outlook: 

Expect a mix of mild temperatures and occasional precipitation. Daytime highs will range from the upper 50s to mid-70s, with cooler temperatures midweek and warmer conditions returning by Thursday. Overnight lows will generally be in the 30s to low 40s.​

Expect a bump in flows due to snowmelt and rainfall, potentially affecting clarity fishing conditions. Monitoring local flows and weather will be beneficial for planning successful fishing outings.

If you are floating please use extreme caution. This river changes rapidly and is known for producing fatal log jams. Give us a call for an updated obstruction report. If you see any issues be sure to call us or send pics so we can share the same. Thanks.

*There are currently MANY obstructions on the Bitterroot.

Hannon-Wally: Several tight spots, but clear.

Wally-Anglers: flows over Sleeping Child dam are always dicey!  Don’t consider running after a scout unless you are highly skilled.  The channel around the left side is too low to consider.

Vets-Woodside: More wood down between New Bridge and Blodgett Park.  The river right channel will require careful scouting and likely boat dragging. 

Woodside-Tucker:  Tree down in the right channel at the split 1/4mi above the diversion channel.  You can sneak through, but not recommended for less experienced rowers.  Very high consequence!

Tucker-Bell: Multiple trees down below Victor that require walking the boat or portaging.  

Bell-Stevi: Mostly clear.  Follow the water.

Stevi-Florence: Clear.  Follow the water at any splits.  As the river fluctuates it is smart to pull over and check for any potential changes.

When In Doubt, Eddy Out! As always, we want anglers to know that they are responsible for their own wellbeing when they are on the water. As an outfitter, we will try our best to bring known dangers to light, but conditions and obstructions are always changing and we can't possibly keep up with every danger that may present itself. When in doubt, eddy out and walk downstream to get a good look at what you're dealing with! 

Best Techniques:

Dry-dropper rigs early in the day with a #10 Water Walker or Chubby up top and a March Brown nymph below (#14 PT, Duracell, Bullet, or Perdigon).  As the water warms, and fish begin to rise, switch over to a single Skwala dry.  If you get refusals on the Skwala try sizing down (#12 or even #14), or throwing a March Brown Parachute or Cripple in a #12 or #14.  If you’re seeing grey drakes switch to a grey drake.  Streamer fishing will also be a good option.  If you see fish sipping in the calm water and eddies try a March Brown or BWO (or a double dry rig with both).

Streamers: Dungeon, Envy, Lil Kim, Sparkle Minnow, Kreelex

Nymphs: Worms, TJ Hooker, Girdle Bugs, Perdigons, Duracell, Blowtorch

Dries: 

Skwalas: Chubby, Plan B, Rolling Stone, Morningwood #10-12

BWOs: On Point BWO, Purple Haze, BWO Cripple #18-20

March Browns: Parachute PT, Brindlechute, March Brown Cripple #12-14

Grey Drake: Film Critic, Flash Cripple, Carnage Drake

*Traveling or in a hurry?  Let our knowledgeable staff pick a fly selection for you!

*The Online Store is updated daily!  Check it out!

*Call us for up to the minute updates at 406.542.7411 or if you are in the area stop in for all your gear and the right bugs.