Hoot Owl:

The Bitterroot River is now under Hoot Owl restrictions from the confluence of the East and West Fork to its confluence with the Clark Fork River. The river is closed from 2 P.M. to midnight. As always, please keep all caught fish wet and make all atempts to release as quickly as possible. 

Dry Fly Bite:
Caddis, hoppers, and Tricos are active across the river, with caddis popping mid-morning. Fish are rising eagerly to well-placed Hoppers, GT Adult Tricos, and trusty Elk Hair Caddis. Expect surface eats in everything from quick riffles to slicks and soft edges. Once midday heat sets in, hatches taper off, and the bulk of the action shifts to hoppers.

Nymphing:
Nymphing is still producing, but most subsurface fish are laying low. Prioritize the dry fly bite when you can. If you do nymph, keep your rigs shallow early in the morning to target the more willing feeders.

Streamers:
The streamer bite has been fair. Focus on structure, undercut banks, log jams, and bouldery pockets where bigger trout are holding tight. Copper Kreelex, Sparkle Minnows, and olive or black sculpin patterns are top choices for moving fish.

Reminder:
With Bitterroot temps hitting mid to high seventies, the river is running dangerously warm. We strongly recommend fishing early or exploring cooler waters to reduce stress on the trout and give them a break during peak heat. Bring a thermometer along and check temps frequently.