Tip of the Week:
Cut off the dropper if you are getting refusals on your hopper pattern. Sometimes this can be the key to an aggressive hopper eat. Also, if your ultra-realistic pattern isn’t enticing the trout, try something more general, like a Plan B or a Chubby. We like to fish bright colors like purple, pink and peach during hopper season. Don’t be afraid to mix it up.
*See our 7 Day Outlook for updates on blockages jamming up the Bitterroot.
7 Day Outlook:
The weather for the Bitterroot is looking excellent for the next week. Water temps are good, especially in the upper and middle river.
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 sweepers in this section. It is getting tougher as water drops.
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.
New Bridge-Woodside: More wood down between New Bridge and Blodgett Park. The river right channel will require careful scouting and likely boat dragging. The left channel was open this past week.
Woodside-Tucker: the left channel at the split is open but be sure to choose your splits wisely, and the right channel over the diversion dam may need to be portaged. Have a look before you run it.
Tucker-Bell: Unrunable at current flows
Bell-Stevi: Follow the sign that says “GO LEFT” to miss the log jam. A new log is exposed in the “clear” channel so proceed with caution.
Best Techniques:
Terrestrials and general attracttors are your best bet if you are looking to fish dry flies. Hoppers, ants and beetles should all be in your box. If they aren’t eating your hopper, try a micro chubby. We are seeing the tail end of tricos and BWOs and Mahoganies are right around the corner. If you’re nymphing, TJ Hookers in tan/brown and coffee/black and Prince Nymphs will make a good first bug with Duracells, Frenchies and Spanish Bullets as a second. If you throw streamers try flashy patterns like Sparkle Minnows, Precious Metals, or a Kreelex.
*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 Orvis gear and the right bugs.
