Bitterroot River Fishing Report – June 20, 2025
Conditions: Steady flows, warming water, active hatches
The Bitterroot has transitioned nicely from runoff into solid early summer conditions. Flows have come down and cleared up on the upper, middle, and lower stretches, and the side channels are fishing very well. Water temps are creeping into that prime zone for dry fly action, and the fish are looking up.
Hatches:
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Golden Stones
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Green Drakes
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PMDs
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Caddis
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Yellow Sallies
Expect consistent dry fly opportunities throughout the day, especially in the late morning and afternoon. Golden Stones are a main course on the upper and middle stretches—try a size 10-12 Chubby or Water Walker in gold, tan, or UV purple. PMDs are popping strong mid-day on slower seams and tailouts, especially around Victor and Stevensville.
Nymphing is still productive in the mornings or during cloudy spells. Rubberlegs, San Juans, and smaller beadhead droppers like Frenchies or Lightning Bugs in size 14–16 will get the job done. Try a dry-dropper rig if you’re floating or working inside corners.
Streamer fishing can be worth a go early and late, especially on overcast days. White, olive, and tan patterns fished near structure or dropped into deep runs have been moving fish.
Recommended Flies:
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Chubby Chernobyl (Tan, Gold, UV Purple) #10-12
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Green Drake Parachute #10-12
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PMD Sparkle Dun or CDC Comparadun #14-16
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Elk Hair Caddis #14-16
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Yellow Sally #14
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Rubberlegs #8-10
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Frenchie or Pheasant Tail #14-16
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Thin Mint, Sparkle Minnow, or Home Invader for streamers
Guides are finding great fishing river-wide, and now is a perfect time to book a float trip. The next few weeks will offer some of the best dry fly action of the season. Call the shop or book online to lock in your spot.
Flows:
- West Fork: 228 CFS
- Darby: 966 CFS
- Bell Crossing 1650 CFS
