The Blackfoot is fishing in a classic late-October pattern, with cold water, clear conditions, and trout concentrating in deeper holding water. Recent flow readings near Bonner have been around 586–593 cfs, indicating relatively stable conditions since the previous report. At these levels, the river is very fishable, but anglers need to be selective about where they spend their time.

The most productive water will be deeper buckets, boulder pockets, slower inside seams, willow-lined banks, and riffle transitions. Fish are less likely to chase flies across fast current as water temperatures cool, so getting your flies into the correct feeding lanes is important.

The biggest change heading into the weekend is the weather. Wednesday should remain mild, but Thursday brings increasing clouds and showers. Friday looks substantially colder and wetter, with valley rain and mountain snow possible. These conditions could create an excellent opportunity for anglers targeting fall mayflies and streamers.

Cooler water temperatures should keep trout comfortable, but fishing may start slowly in the morning. Give the river some time to warm before expecting significant activity. Late morning through afternoon remains the strongest fishing window.

Floating Update: The construction-related closure below Weigh Station was lifted in early October. Anglers can once again float the previously closed section.

Fall Hatches

October Caddis remain an important part of the Blackfoot's fall fishing. Anglers are already seeing these large insects, and adult imitations can still move fish along deeper banks and broken riffles. Fishing an October Caddis dry with a smaller nymph underneath is an effective way to cover water when fish aren't rising consistently.

BWOs should become increasingly important with the approaching cloudy, rainy weather. Watch slower seams and softer water for fish feeding on small mayflies. Mahogany Duns are another insect worth carrying, while Hecubas remain a possibility in appropriate water.

Terrestrials are almost finished for the season, although beetles, ants, and occasional small hoppers can still fool trout on warmer afternoons.

Nymphing should be productive throughout the week. Try larger Pat's Rubber Legs or Zirdles paired with Frenchies, Duracells, Perdigons, or BWO nymphs. Work these patterns through deeper pockets and slower water adjacent to structure.

Streamer fishing deserves serious attention as we move deeper into fall. Large trout may become more aggressive during low-light conditions, particularly when a weather system moves through. Fish olive, black, tan, or white streamers along boulder seams, deeper banks, and soft inside water. Slower retrieves with occasional pauses can be particularly effective.

Outlook for the Weekend

Thursday and Friday's rain could improve streamer fishing and BWO activity, provided the river doesn't become too muddy. Saturday should be colder but more settled. With cool mornings expected, plan on fishing later in the day.

What's Working

Dry Flies

• October Caddis Adults #8–12

• BWO Dries #18–22

• Mahogany Duns #14–16

• Hecubas #10–12

• Parachute Adams #16–20

• Purple Haze #16–20

• Griffith's Gnats #18–22

• Beetles #12–16

• Ants #14–18

Nymphs

• Pat's Rubber Legs #8–12

• Zirdles #8–10

• Frenchies #14–18

• Duracells #14–18

• Perdigons #16–20

• Pheasant Tails #16–20

• BWO Nymphs #18–22

• October Caddis Pupa #8–12

• Zebra Midges #18–22

Streamers

• Sparkle Minnows

• Sculpzilla

• Mini Dungeons

• Swim Coach

• Thin Mints

• JJ Specials

• Woolly Buggers

• Olive and Black Sculpins