East Fork Bitterroot River Fishing Report – June 29, 2025
Current Conditions:
The East Fork is coming into great shape after the last pulses of runoff. Flows have dropped nicely and water clarity is much improved. This stretch is fishing well from above Sula down to the confluence with the West Fork. With lighter pressure than the main stem, the East Fork offers a quiet and productive option.
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East Fork Gauge near Sula: ~500 CFS
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Visibility: 2.5–3.5 feet and improving daily
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Water Temp: Mid-40s°F in the morning, warming into the low 50s by afternoon
Hatches & Flies:
Golden Stones are pushing hard up the East Fork, and fish are looking up. There’s also a healthy mix of PMDs and caddis throughout the day. This is classic small-river dry fly fishing—target the pockets, seams, and shaded banks.
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Golden Stoneflies (#8–10): Most active late morning into afternoon
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Top Patterns: Chubby Chernobyl (tan, UV purple), Clark’s Stone, Stimulator
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PMDs (#14–18): Found mid-morning into early afternoon in slower water
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Top Patterns: Film Critic, Purple Haze, PMD Sparkle Dun
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Caddis (#16–18): Great evening activity in slicks and foam lines
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Top Patterns: Tan X-Caddis, Iris Caddis, CDC Caddis
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Tactics & Tips:
Focus on the edges—especially under overhanging brush and around structure. The fish are opportunistic and aggressive right now. A well-placed dry will often get an immediate response. Hopper-dropper setups are effective for covering pocket water, and prospecting with a size 10 Chubby trailed by a PMD nymph is a solid combo in deeper slots.
Streamer fishing can also be productive with small, flashy patterns stripped near cover during low-light hours.
Guide’s Note:
The East Fork is a fantastic choice for anglers looking to escape the crowds and find active fish in clear, cold water. Expect good surface activity throughout the day and excellent wading access along much of the river.
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