West Fork Bitterroot River Fishing Report – April 13, 2025
Spring is in full swing on the West Fork, and the fishing has been solid with improving conditions by the day. Water levels are up a bit from recent snowmelt, but clarity is holding at 2–3 feet, and fish are responding well to the warmer temps and increased flows.
Hatches & Fly Patterns:
Skwala action is still happening, especially on the warmer afternoons. You’ll find fish looking up in the softer seams and back eddies where they don’t have to work too hard. We’ve also started seeing some March Browns and even a few caddis on the lower stretches.
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Top Dries: Rogue Skwala #10, Purple Haze #14–16, Brindle Chute #16
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Nymphs: Pat’s Rubberlegs #8–10, San Juan Worms, Hare’s Ear #14–16
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Streamers: Small black or olive buggers twitched through the tailouts have moved a few bigger fish.
Tactics:
The name of the game right now is targeting soft water and slower edges where fish can hold comfortably. Don’t ignore the inside bends and woody structure—many of those bank fish are active and looking for a well-placed dry or dropper rig. A dry-dropper setup has been highly effective during the late morning through early afternoon window.
Access & Flows:
Access points are open and manageable, but wading anglers should be cautious—flows are dynamic with recent runoff. Flows are hovering around 175 CFS and likely to bump with the next warm spell. Keep an eye on the gauges. The road into the West Fork is clear, though potholes are abundant (as usual).
Guide’s Note:
The West Fork is a great early-season bet right now. You won’t find the crowds yet, and the fish are feeding with a purpose. If you can hit the river on a day with some sun and light wind, you’re in for a shot at some great dry fly eats.
