Hoot Owl Fishing Restriction from mile: 0.0 to 83.0 beginning August 2
From the confluence with Clark Fork River upstream to the confluence of East Fork and West Fork Bitterroot River
The hoot-owl fishing restriction, which prohibits fishing each day between 2 p.m. and midnight, are in effect for portions of the Bitterroot River from the confluence with Clark Fork River upstream to the confluence of East Fork and West Fork Bitterroot River. Water temperature at Bitterroot River near Missoula exceeded exceeded 73 degrees for three consecutive days. These restrictions will remain in place until lifted by FWP administrative action when temperatures do not exceed 70 degrees for three consecutive days, or until September 15.
We recommend giving the root a break from fishing and all other recreational activities. Sustained 70 degree water temp for the better part of a month can't be good for the fish. When flows get as low as they are, trout look to the deeper trenches and holes for refuge, the same place your raft or inner-tube goes to avoid dragging.
