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Blackfoot River Fishing Report + Rating

3/5

October 24, 2024

Oh, summer. Where did thy go? October is finally here, as fall colors starting to take shape up the Blackfoot. The Blackfoot still really low, with flows hovering around 390cfs at Bonner. Don’t be surprised if you head up that way and see parts of the river bottom that you didn’t know existed.  It’s low and the floating is spotty in spots. If you really love your drift boat, I would leave it at home. The river is very boney and a raft is much better suited in those dicier sections with bigger rapids.

That being said, the wade anglers are loving the Blackfoot recently. Lots of Mahoganies, BWOs and October caddis in the afternoon. Hopper/dropper fishing or nymphing still the most productive way to fish in between hatches. A big, eager trout will often mistake a pink or tan Chubby Chernobyl as an October caddis in the afternoon. Underneath that, drop a PT, Prince, Pats Rubberlegs, or San Juan Worm. Witnessing an epic BWO hatch, but no fish are feeding on the surface? Try dropping a small BWO nymph or emerger. We like Galloup’s Jigged BWO, Jig PLT nymphs or a soft hackle for these occasions. For mayfly dries, a small BWO cripple or dun like the CDC Duns, Para-Wulffs or Flash Cripples will fool picky risers.

 Streamer fishing seemingly getting better day by day, from foot and from the boat. If you aren’t seeing much bug activity, don’t be afraid to reach for a Mini Dungeon, Sparkle Minnow, or Chicago Overcoat and pound the bank and inside bends. You can get away with a bigger, articulated streamer in the quicker pocket water this time of year. We like yellow, black, white and olive for colors right now. Has that sink-tip of yours been collecting dust for the last few months? It’s time to break it out! Big streamers retrieved low and slow in the am, but sped up and twitched through that heavier water when looking for “the One.” Cheers to October!

1/2 off Friday’s are still happening, every Friday all year long. (1/2 off your first dozen dries or nymphs)

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Current Recommended Flies For Blackfoot River Fly Fishing

Find flies for Missoula fly fishing at our Missoula fly shop or online fly shop.

Blackfoot River Weather Forecast

See the Blackfoot River fishing reports weather forecast for the next 7-days. For more information on the forecast or detailed weather data, please visit NOAA Weather Data – Bonner, Montana.