Fishing Outlook & Conditions
Water Temp:
73
Blackfoot River Outfitters's Tip of the Week
As we start seeing more grasshoppers, ants, beetles, and other terrestrials in the coming weeks, you will find the best hopper fishing when it’s a bit windy (ideally a crosswind) outside. Afternoons are also generally more successful as hoppers are more active once it warms up a bit, making them more susceptible to getting blown into the nearest stream or lake. When it comes to hopper patterns, start small in the early season (that’s right now) and size up your flies as time goes on - this is what is happening with the naturals! When you’re looking for the perfect spot to cast your favorite hopper pattern, start with the nearest grassy banks. Thick grass lining the edge of a cut bank can be a great place to fish hoppers. *See our 7 Day Outlook for updates on blockages jamming up the Bitterroot.
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Water Flow Data
Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby
Blackfoot River OutfittersBlue Damsel Lodge
Montana Hunting and Fishing Adventures
Triple Creek Ranch
5-Day Outlook as of 7/19/24
This past week in the Bitterroot Valley, flows have dropped considerably and we are now looking at a river that is flowing at about one-third of the historical average for this time of year. Some sections will be a bit bony. We’re looking at another very hot week similar to what we’ve been experiencing the last couple weeks, but with cooler nights in the forecast which we hope will bring down water temperatures a bit. **There are currently fishing restrictions on the Bitterroot river by Montana FWP. Please refer to Montana FWP’s current waterbody restrictions to see the latest.** 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. 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: New tree down in right channel need to stay left here. 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: Very sketchy in the channel through the woods now that the water has come up. Consider going somewhere else until runoff subsides. 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. 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!
Techniques & Tips as of 7/19/24
In the Bitterroot Valley, we’re seeing mostly PMDs right now. There are the occasional Yellow Sallies, Golden Stones and Green Drakes in the mix as well. Early mornings are fishing the best. For the rest of the day, nymphing will be the best bet. Consider bringing some hoppers, as opportunities to fish terrestrials begin to present themselves. *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.
Local Species Available Year round; some tributaries closed December 1-third week of May. Check regulations before fishing.
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Trout - rainbows
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browns and cutties - whitefish
Blackfoot River Outfitters's Recommended Fly Patterns
"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:
Name: | Colors: | Size(s): |
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Stimulator | N/A | #10-14 |
Chernobyl Ant | N/A | #10-14 |
CDC Comparadun | PMD | #16-18 |
Sparkle Dun | Green Drake | #8-12 |
TJ Hooker | N/A | #08-12 |
Sparkle Minnow | N/A | #04-08 |
TH 20 Incher | N/A | #8-12 |
Tungsten Jig Bugger | N/A | #06-10 |
Chubby Chernobl | Gold, Purple | #8-12 |
Flash Cripple | PMD | #14-18 |
Blackfoot River Outfitters's Recommended Gear
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Best Leader:
Super Strong Plus Leaders
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Best Tippet:
SuperStrong Plus Tippet in 30- and 100-meter spools
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Best Fly Fishing Rod:
5-Weight 9' Fly Rod
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Best Floating Fly Line:
WF Trout Fly Line
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Best Sinking Fly Line:
Bank Shot Sink Tip Fly Line