The Hoot Owl Departs: Missoula Fishing Report

Thankfully, we are back to fishing all hours of the day.  Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks has lifted it’s hoot owl restriction on the Blackfoot, Bitterroot, and Clark Fork Rivers.

Snow fell on the Front Range this morning.  Nights are longer and cool.  Water temps are great.  Fall is just around the corner!

Bitterroot River Fishing Report

The upper ‘Root has been outstanding on big mayflies — Hecubas — and small terrestrials. Droppers have produced fish in the mornings: the usual fare of Pat’s, Worms, and meaty treats.

Clark Fork River Fishing Report

Trico fishing around town has been solid. Make your best cast first, and if you’re float fishing, try to see if you can make your presentation without dropping the anchor–the big boys can sense it.

Blackfoot River Fishing Report

Since the hoot owl flew off into the forest, the Blackfoot has been the place to be.  Mornings are for the Trico bite and hoppers, while afternoons have offered good to stellar hoppers and leggy dries.  If you are tying your own Blackfoot dries, it’s time to get your freak on — the funkier the better.