The Blackfoot continues to fish well as runoff gradually recedes and clarity improves throughout the system. Flows remain on the high side, but anglers are finding success by focusing on softer water along the banks, side channels, and inside seams. Water temperatures remain cool, keeping fish active throughout the day.

The Salmonfly hatch is currently the main event, with bugs working their way upstream and fish looking up whenever adults are present. Golden Stones are beginning to show in greater numbers, and early Green Drakes, PMDs, and caddis are providing additional opportunities. While the dry fly fishing can be excellent, anglers should still be prepared to fish subsurface when hatch activity slows.

Most fish are holding tight to structure and softer current breaks. Banks lined with timber, submerged logs, and slower water adjacent to heavy current are producing the most consistent action. A well-presented dry-dropper rig is still (and always) one of the most effective ways to cover water and locate feeding fish.

What's Working

Dry Flies

• Salmonflies #4-6
• Golden Stones #6-8
• Water Walkers
• Chubby Chernobyls
• Green Drakes #10-12
• Elk Hair Caddis #14-16

Nymphs

• Pat's Rubber Legs
• TJ Hooker
• Psycho May
• Frenchie
• Split Case PMD
• Perdigons

Streamers

• Sparkle Minnows
• Mini Dungeons
• Swim Coach
• Peanut Envy
• Olive and black sculpin patterns

Fishing should continue to improve as flows drop and fish spread into more traditional summer holding water. The Salmonfly hatch will continue pushing upstream while Golden Stones become increasingly important throughout the river. Expect excellent dry-dropper fishing over the next couple of weeks, with opportunities for both quality trout and consistent numbers of fish. Anglers who focus on softer water near the banks and cover plenty of water should find success throughout the drainage.