Bitterroot River Fishing Report – April 29, 2025
Fishing on the Bitterroot is winding down for spring, flows bumped slightly this week with some low-elevation snowmelt, but the river remains in great shape, especially in the upper and middle stretches. Water clarity is good, and fish are feeding actively on the surface during the warmer parts of the day.
Hatches:
Skwala stones are winding down, but you’ll still see a few stragglers on warmer afternoons. March Browns are the main event now, with solid mid-day emergences and fish looking up in slower seams and foam lines. Blue-winged olives (BWOs) are coming off strong on overcast days, and the trout are keyed in.
Tactics:
Dry fly opportunities are solid from late morning into early evening. A well-presented March Brown pattern or a parachute BWO will get looks in softer water. For nymphing, focus on the top 3 feet of the water column with a jig PT, rubberlegs, or a small dropper like a Zebra Midge. Streamer fishing has been productive on cloudy days—try a black or olive sculpin pattern on a sink-tip.
River Sections:
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Upper Bitterroot (Confluence to Darby): Best clarity and consistent dry fly action. Flows are stable and side channels are fishing well.
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Middle Bitterroot (Darby to Hamilton): March Browns are thick, and fish are rising in softer edges and tailouts.
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Lower Bitterroot (Hamilton to Missoula): Flows are higher and a bit pushy, but streamer fishing has been hot when conditions allow.
Conditions to Watch:
Warm days ahead could bring more snowmelt, so keep an eye on flows. Cooler temps and cloudy skies will continue to produce the best surface activity.
Need a guide? We’re on the water daily and love sharing our home water. Book a trip or swing by the shop—we’re always happy to talk bugs and flows.
Tight lines,
Jeff Gray
Outfitter / Freestone Fly Shop
