The East Fork is a walk-and-wade gem right now. Flows are low and clear, which makes wading easy but also requires stealth. Fish are feeding, but they’re spooky—long leaders, careful approaches, and small patterns are the recipe for success.
What We’re Seeing: The best action is coming early with Tricos and PMDs, as pods of fish rise in the softer seams and slower pools. As the sun gets higher, ants and beetles are taking fish along grassy edges and pockets. This is technical fishing—precision casting and good drifts will separate success from frustration.
Best Flies Right Now:
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Trico & PMD Parachutes (#16–20)
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Black Ants & Beetles (#14–16)
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Elk Hair Caddis (#16)
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Micro Nymphs & WD-40s (#18–20)
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Griffith’s Gnat for podded fish
Guide Tips: Keep your casts short and accurate, and try to make your first cast count—fish here don’t give you many second chances. Drop down to 5X or 6X and use longer leaders (10–12 feet). Move slowly between runs and pools—you’ll find fish, but they’ll reward patience and precision.
Bottom Line: A technical but rewarding stretch for anglers looking for solitude and dry-fly challenges. Bring your “A-game” presentation skills and enjoy a quieter Bitterroot experience.
