We are in Prime Time dry fly fishing right now. If ever you wanted to see the Bitterroot River in all it’s glory, the time is now. We are seeing all sorts of different hatches; Drakes, Goldens, PMDs, Bitterroot Stones, Caddis, BWOs, Salmon Flies and I’m probably missing a few others. The flows have been on a slow decline and have been trending well below the median for this time of year. Cross your fingers the cool wet weather conditions continue through the month of July. For now floating conditions have been optimal, wading conditions are are getting easier and more plentiful and the water temps are trending in the 52-58 degree range on the upper river. All of the stars are aligned for great fishing! Keep your eye on the East Fork - it’s been puking mud with any amount of rain up in the new burned areas, this is something to be aware of for the Wade anglers and those floating the upper river.
Areas of concern on the River. Haven’t heard much chatter about major issues, with the exception of TUCKER - VICTOR (This one’s a mess in there and is going to cause problems). With that being said there are always tricky spots and as the water levels drop new obstructions will be exposed and what was passable last week may not be today, so please use extreme caution when floating. When in doubt, scout it out. If I’m unsure of a passage lane I always ask myself where am I going to safely land my boat if it’s blocked. Look as far down river as possible and expect the unexpected.
What’s in my Fly Box:
✔️ Brindlechutes #16-12
✔️ Purplehaze #16-14
✔️ Plan B Golden #14-10
✔️ Rastaman Golden #14
✔️ Bullethead Golden #14-10
✔️ Greydrake #12
✔️ Parachute PMD #16
✔️ PMD Perdigon #14-16
✔️ SJ Worm #10
✔️ Rubberleg #12-10
✔️ Olive or Tan Streamers
BITTERROOT RIVER FLOWS
WEST FORK: 447 CFS
DARBY: 1430 CFS
BELL CROSSING: 1860 CFS
MISSOULA: 2870 CFS
