Missoula Fly Fishing Report – March 29, 2020.

I hope that you’re all enjoying the fresh air and sunshine while we are still able. I have heard that Washington, Idaho, and Oregon have closed their rivers to fishing. I hope that this does not happen in Montana but who knows where all of this is heading. We are experiencing a fantastic spring fishing season so get out and enjoy it while you still can!

Bitterroot River – The Bitterroot is on fire right now and producing great days for experienced and novice anglers alike. Skwalas and March Browns have reached their adult stage and that has the fish looking up in a big way. For the best dry fly fishing wait until the afternoon hours and focus on long drag free drifts.

Clark Fork River – The steady flows have enabled “the Clark” to fish well this spring. Fish are eating on top and you can have some great afternoons throwing dries. The Clark Fork upstream of Missoula is clogged with woody debris so if you are going to be floating it in a boat please use extreme caution.

Blackfoot River – Fish are starting to wake up on the Blackfoot. This time of year fish are feeding opportunistically in preparation for spawning activities and to bulk up before runoff. Don’t be afraid of the low water temps… this is a great time to throw some big flies that trigger them to eat.

Rock Creek – The fishing just keeps getting better on Rock Creek. You are going to see new fish showing up from the Clark Fork every day as they prepare to make their spawning runs to the upper reaches of Rock Creek. Worm and Stonefly patters are working the best right now. If you see smaller flies to be afraid to go short and small to match the hatch.

Top Patterns – #10 Skwala, #8 Olive Wooly Bugger, #10 Pat’s Rubblerlegs

Looking Ahead – Our snowpack isn’t going anywhere soon so the fishing will continue to be excellent for weeks to come. Now is the time to get out and learn as much as you can before runoff hits!