West Fork Bitterroot River Fishing Report
Updated: June 7, 2025
Location: West Fork of the Bitterroot River, Montana
Flows:
Currently running at 437 CFS near the confluence. Flows are gradually dropping as runoff begins to taper, opening up more side channels and soft seams. Wading is still limited in some areas, but drift access is improving daily.
Water Clarity:
Slightly off-color with 2–3 feet of visibility—perfect for tossing big bugs with confidence.
Hatch Activity:
The West Fork is entering prime time. Here's what to expect:
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Salmonflies – These are the main event right now. Adult stones are active in the heat of the day (11 a.m. – 4 p.m.). Look for fish tight to the banks and around structure.
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Golden Stones – A few fluttering around, especially higher up the drainage. Fish will still key in on these large meals.
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Green Drakes – Sporadic hatches showing in the late afternoon. Don't overlook them in slower slicks and back eddies.
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Caddis & PMDs – Strong evening emergence, great for targeting risers in backwaters and tailouts.
Effective Patterns:
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Chubby Chernobyls (gold, tan, purple, size 8–10)
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Plan B and Sofa Pillows
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Rogue Golden Stones
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Parachute Adams and Purple Haze (for evening dry fly eats)
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Soft Hackle Pheasant Tails & Split Case PMDs (dropper options)
Fishing Tips:
Focus on the softer edges, inside bends, and side channels where trout are holding out of the heavier current. This is a great time for attractor dry-dropper rigs. Don’t hesitate to throw single dries when you see active feeders.
Guide Tip:
With the river still a bit pushy, fish are tucked in tight. Drop your casts close to the bank and keep your drifts short and clean.
