Bitterroot in great shape…
- At April 23, 2013
- In Fishing Report
We have had a very cold snap in the last week. While many people are complaining that spring is late in arriving, most fly fishers are rejoicing. There are 2 reasons for this, increased snow accumulation and lack of melting have significantly increased our snow pack. A few weeks ago we were sitting at 76% of normal and now we are at 91% of normal. This equates to better stream flow into the summer. The second reason, the river has been dropping and clarity is excellent. This provides great fishing conditions even though its a bit cold. Hatches are still coming off and fish are on them. The window of dry fly action is a bit narrower and starts a bit later but when its on it’s great. We are expecting a warming trend this week that will really get the bugs and fish going for longer periods in the day.. I am anticipating some of the best fishing of spring this week. Get out and enjoy it now as eventually the warmer temperatures will lead to increased snow melt and the arrival of run-off… Not much has changed with bugs, fish are still keying on Skwala’s and there are abundant may fly hatches of March Browns, Grey Drakes and BWO’s…. See ya on the river ~><(((*>
Bitterroot still producing good fishing….
- At April 13, 2013
- In Fishing Report
River levels have stabilized and dropped over the last week and good dry fly action continues.. The Skwala hatch is still on and trout are still looking for the big bugs. The may flies ( March Brown, Grey Drake ) have been hatching in big numbers as well.. If you see rising fish throw a Skwala and if they refuse try a may fly imitation. Weather conditions are predicted to remain cool for the next week. This should keep the river from blowing out and provide great dry fly action. see ya on the river ~ ><(((*>
Skwalapalooza….
- At March 26, 2013
- In Fishing Report
It’s been another typical spring here in Monanta. Last weeks warm spring weather gave way to cold wind and snow. While the Skwala’s continue to emerge the cold slowed down the action a bit. Afternoons are still the best time to catch fish on dries. Temperatures are predicted to warm this week and should really get the bugs and fish going. Skwala’s and Nemoura’s are out in big numbers and I am also beginning to see some the spring may flies (March Browns and Gray Drakes). The fish haven’t seen enough to start keying on them but that should change this week. A 2 fly rig should get it done most days . Run a Skwala in front and trail a Nemoura or may fly emerger behind .. See ya on the river…… ~><(((*>
Spring around the corner…
As we head into March there is much talk and anticipation of the Skwala hatch. While we have had a few mild days the hatch won’t be in full swing for another 2 weeks. There are currently some good fishing opportunities to be had on the Bitterroot. Every March the Skwala nymphs migrate to the edge of the river and wait for the proper time to emerge. As those nymphs move to shore trout will begin to feed heavily on them. Nymph fishing has been good on the warmer afternoons fishing various Skwala nymph patterns or just attractors like a prince. If you are lucky risers can be found on the warmer afternoons sipping midges. Float a Skwala dry over them , sometimes they will be opportunists and grab it. If the trout refuse your Skwala, match the hatch with a small dark midge #18 – #22… The 1st great dry fly action of the season is just around the corner……..See ya on the river!
Happy New Year!
I hope everyone had a fun holiday season and the New Year is off to a great start. Not much action to report on Bitterroot river fly fishing.. We have had cold temperatures over the past week and a fair amount of ice has begun to build on the river. There is still some open water on the lower river if you are interested in trying your luck. Your best bet will be fishing nymphs low and slow in the slower runs.. Dress warm and be prepared to have your guides ice up every few casts. The Bitterroot snowpack as of January 19th is about 90%. A bit below average but nothing we can’t make up with a few good storms. The snowpack builds until April so there is plenty of time left and things can change quickly. Check my site for updates on conditions.. Don’t forget the Skwala hatch is less then 2 months away………….. Eddie
Winter in the Bitterroot.
After a mild fall, winter is finally settling into the Bitterroot. Snow pack is beginning to build and we are at 90% of normal already. Hopefully the snow will continue and provide good stream flows in 2013. I haven’t been doing much fishing lately, mostly hunting and now skiing. If you are into winter fly fishing there are some opportunities on the river. Most of the action is subsurface with streamers and nymphs fished deep in the slower runs. On warmer afternoons you may get a very narrow window of dry fly activity on midges and BWO’s. I will update my report throughout winter with river conditions and snow pack levels ..
