Bitterroot River Fishing Report
Our Bitterroot River fishing report comes to you straight from the river! We tell it like it is and take pride in providing the most accurate Missoula fishing report available. When you want to know how the fishing is, what tactics to use, or what flies to tie on, we’re your one-stop Missoula fly shop.
QUALITY RATING
Full details below
March 14, 2026
CURRENT CONDITIONS
It's starting to feel like that time of year on the Bitterroot. Skwalas starting to show up on warmer days. What little dry fly action that was starting to kick off has slowed down a bit with the winter storm. That being said, warm weather on the horizon–– look for the hatches to kick off in a big way soon!
Those finding success out there are starting the day nymphing. Heavy stonefly nymphs like T.J. Hookers, Front St. Stones and Dbl Bead Stones have produced well. Worm patterns and small flashy perdigons have been strong seconds. Starting to see midges in the afternoons on warmer days. Zebra midges or small, dark perdigons on light tippet will work for big fish keyed in on small nymphs. Heavy nypmhs this time of year will get you in the zone quick and keep you there for long, slow drifts to lazy trout.
For the dry fly enthusiasts, midges and small winter stone imitations are the go-to's. Long leaders and fine tippet for picky risers in the flat, glassy water is key. We like the Hanging Midge, Clusters and Goober Midges (as well as small stimulators) for midges, capnias and nemouras.
Pushing the skwala dry-fly around has proved successful on warm afternoons. Reach for a Plan B, Emma Stone, Water Walker or Fools Gold. Keep an eye out for the dry fly fishing to only improve in the coming weeks!
Dead-drifting and swinging streamers has also been productive. Heavy, natural colored streamers will find a few fish willing to chase this time of year. Our favorite colors on the Bitterroot are olive, white, and black. Sparkle minnows, Buggers, Mini Dungeons and other small, heavy articulated streamers have been the ticket.
Looking Forward
You blink and it's almost spring in western Montana! If you're like us, you're anxiously awaiting our awesome spring hatches on the Bitterroot: skwalas, BWOs and March Browns. Now is the time to start gearing up for the hatch to time it just right!
FLOATERS BEWARE
Lots of trees are down again this year and a few places are dangerous. Give our Missoula fly shop a call for up-to-date information. 1/2 off Fridays are still happening, every Friday all year long. (1/2 off your first dozen dries or nymphs)
FEATURED FLIES
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BITTERROOT RIVER Conditions
Know before you go! Understand current Bitterroot River flows and conditions before hitting the water.
BITTERROOT RIVER FLOWS
BITTERROOT VALLEY WEATHER
See the Bitterroot fishing report weather forecast for the next 7-days. For more information on the forecast or detailed weather data, please visit NOAA Weather Data – Stevensville, Montana.
