The Blackfoot continues to fish well following the rain that moved through the area last weekend. The river near Bonner is running approximately 690 cfs, up slightly from Monday's reported 683 cfs. Flows remain noticeably higher than the low-water conditions earlier in October, giving trout additional holding water around banks, boulder pockets, and deeper buckets.

The recent increase has been especially helpful for anglers fishing streamers and larger nymphs. More depth around boulders and undercut banks provides cover for trout and creates opportunities to fish water that was less productive when flows were lower.

Water temperatures are now firmly in the late-fall range, with recent local reports showing temperatures in the low-to-mid 40s. The cooler conditions mean fish may be less willing to move long distances for food. Accurate presentations and fishing the proper depth are becoming increasingly important.

Wednesday should bring cold temperatures with scattered rain and snow showers, particularly around the higher elevations of the drainage. Thursday looks similarly unsettled, with additional mountain snow possible. The weekend should remain chilly, with temperatures generally in the 40s and low 50s.

Look for trout holding in deeper buckets, softer inside seams, boulder pockets, and slower water adjacent to faster riffles. Nymphing these areas carefully should remain one of the most dependable approaches.

Floating Update: The construction-related closure below Weigh Station was lifted earlier this month. Anglers can once again float the previously closed section, subject to current regulations and any new hazards.

Fall Hatches

BWOs are becoming increasingly important on the Blackfoot. The approaching clouds, rain, and cooler weather should provide good conditions for these small mayflies, particularly during the warmest part of the afternoon.

Anglers are still seeing October Caddis, although the hatch is winding down. Larger adult imitations may still bring fish to the surface in broken water. Mahogany Duns remain worth carrying, while Hecubas are becoming less dependable this late in the season.

Terrestrials are nearly finished, but a beetle, ant, or occasional small hopper can still produce during warmer afternoon periods.

Nymphing should remain consistent. A Pat's Rubber Legs or Zirdle followed by a Frenchie, Duracell, or Perdigon is a useful combination for exploring deeper buckets and boulder seams.

Streamer fishing is becoming a particularly strong option. The increased water and low-light conditions can encourage larger trout to chase baitfish imitations. Try olive, black, tan, and white streamers along boulder edges, deeper banks, and soft inside water. Slower retrieves and occasional pauses may help when fish are less active.

Outlook for the Weekend

The Blackfoot should continue to offer good late-fall fishing opportunities, although anglers should prepare for cold mornings and unsettled weather. Focus on nymphs and streamers early, then watch for BWO activity during the afternoon.

What's Working

Dry Flies

• BWO Dries #18–22

• BWO Emergers #18–22

• October Caddis Adults #8–12

• 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