The Bitterroot is in full-on summer mode, and the hopper fishing is the name of the game right now. Fish are looking up, especially during the cooler morning hours, and anglers willing to put in the work along the banks are finding some excellent dry-fly opportunities.
HOPPERS ARE HERE
The hopper fishing is about as good as it gets right now. Look for trout tight to grassy banks, undercut edges, and slower water along the banks. A well-presented hopper can bring some of the biggest eats of the summer.
Our go-to patterns include Chubby Chernobyls, Dave's Hoppers, Moorish Hoppers, and other foam terrestrials in sizes 8–12. Don't be afraid to experiment with color and size if the fish aren't responding.
A hopper-dropper setup can also be productive when the fish aren't quite ready to commit to the surface. A small Pheasant Tail, Perdigon, or other attractor nymph underneath the hopper is a good way to cover both the surface and subsurface water.
FISH EARLY
With August water temperatures climbing, early mornings are the best time to be on the Bitterroot. The first few hours of the day are producing the most consistent dry-fly action, and the cooler water makes for better conditions for the trout.
We recommend getting an early start, focusing on shaded banks, riffles, and faster oxygenated water. As the sun gets higher and temperatures rise, the fish become less active and more difficult to target effectively.
EAST & WEST FORKS
The Main Stem, East and West Forks are currently under additional hoot-owl restrictions, with fishing prohibited from 2:00 p.m. through midnight on affected sections. These restrictions were put in place because of rising water temperatures.
Always check the current Montana FWP regulations before heading out, as restrictions can change quickly with weather and water temperatures.
FLIES WE LIKE
Dry Flies
- Chubby Chernobyl – #8–12
- Dave's Hopper – #8–12
- Fat Albert – #8–12
- Parachute Hopper – #10–12
- Purple Haze – #14–16
- Rusty Spinner – #14–16
Nymphs
- Pheasant Tail – #14–16
- Perdigon – #14–16
- Frenchie – #14–16
- Jigged Hare's Ear – #12–16
OUR TAKE
The Bitterroot is fishing well, but the heat of August means timing is everything. Get on the water early, keep your hopper tight to the bank, and be ready for some explosive eats.
If you're looking for a dry-fly-focused Bitterroot trip, this is a great time to get out. The hopper fishing is exactly what summer Montana fly fishing should be.
As always, please handle the fish carefully and release them quickly. Keep trout in the water whenever possible and avoid fishing water that is too warm for healthy trout.
River conditions and fishing restrictions can change quickly. Check current Montana FWP regulations and water temperatures before fishing.
