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
2 / 5

Full details below

May 20, 2025

CURRENT CONDITIONS

The Bitterroot has dropped the last 7 days or so and is fishable.  It's still big and fast, but the clarity is good.  Sub-surface will be the way to go in this bigger water.  Big stonefly nymphs like TJ Hookers, Rubberlegs, Double Bead Stones and Front St. Stones with a San Juan or Squirmy.  Fish the side channels, drops offs and anywhere the water slows down right next to the banks.  Streamer fishing is another good option.  Mini-Dungeons, Chicago Overcoats, Jig Yummy's, Circus Peanuts and Drunk and Disorderlies.

Looking Forward

We will probably get hit with another wave of muddy water when it warms back up next week, but should be fishable this week and through Memorial Day.  Be careful out there if you float.  It's big and can be dangerous.

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 Friday’s 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 River Fly Fishing Report, Bitterroot River Fishing Report
Bitterroot Fishing Report, Bitterroot River Fly Fishing
Bitterroot Fishing Report, Bitterroot River Fly Fishing
West Fork Bitterroot River Fishing Report, Bitterroot River Fishing Report

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.

GEAR UP FOR YOUR TRIP

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FLIES

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Not Fly Fishing the Bitterroot River?

FISHING REPORTS