The Bitterroot continues to improve daily as runoff begins to recede across the valley. Flows remain above seasonal averages, but clarity has improved significantly and anglers are finding good fishing throughout the system. The main river is becoming increasingly fishable, while the East and West Forks are providing some excellent opportunities for anglers willing to cover water. Current flows near Missoula are around 4860 CFS, Darby is aroud 1650 CFS and dropping steadily. Water temperatures are holding in the low-to-mid 50s.
Current Conditions
The best fishing is taking place along softer edges, inside seams, side channels, and slower buckets where trout can escape the heavier current. Nymphing remains the most productive method throughout the day, while dry fly opportunities continue to improve each afternoon as water temperatures rise.
The Salmon Fly hatch is underway on the upper river and both forks, with Golden Stones becoming increasingly active. Expect fish to key heavily on stoneflies over the next couple of weeks as the hatch progresses upstream. Green Drakes, PMDs, caddis, and Blue Winged Olives are also beginning to show, especially during cloudy afternoons.
What's Working
Dry Flies
- Salmon Fly Patterns #4-6
- Golden Stone Patterns #6-8
- Green Drake Patterns #10-12
- PMDs #14-18
- Tan Caddis #14-16
Nymphs
- Pat's Rubber Legs #4-8
- Bullet Head Stoneflies #6-10
- Frenchies #12-16
- Jig PTs #14-18
- Split Case PMDs #14-16
- Worms and Eggs during higher flows
Streamers
- Sparkle Minnows
- Sculpzillas
- Mini Dungeons
- Olive and Black articulated patterns
Guide's Tip
The afternoon window continues to be the most productive time to be on the water. Focus on softer water near banks and structure, especially where Salmon Flies and Golden Stones are beginning to appear. Don't overlook the dry-dropper game on the upper river and forks—some of the best fish of the season are already looking up.
Outlook
If flows continue to drop as forecasted, the next two weeks could provide some of the best fishing of the early summer season. The Salmon Fly hatch is building momentum daily, and conditions should only improve as water levels continue to stabilize. Anglers planning trips over the next several days should expect a mix of productive nymphing, aggressive streamer eats, and increasing dry fly action.
Stop by the shop for the latest hatch updates, river conditions, and our current guide-favorite fly selections.
