The Blackfoot is settling into a cold, clear October rhythm, and this weekend should offer some good opportunities for anglers willing to slow down and pick apart the right water. The latest verified discharge near Bonner was approximately 580–586 cfs, showing little change from the previous report. Flows remain low enough that fish are concentrated around deeper buckets, boulder pockets, and well-defined seams rather than spread evenly throughout the river.

Last weekend's rain and snow brought a substantial cool-down to western Montana. Recent Blackfoot water-temperature readings were around 49°F, which is comfortable for trout but can make the morning bite sluggish. This weekend's warmer daytime temperatures should improve activity once the sun has had time to warm the river slightly.

Saturday is expected to bring mild temperatures and gusty winds, followed by a cooler Sunday. The wind could make fishing exposed stretches challenging, so seek out protected banks, deeper corners, and boulder-filled runs where presentations are easier to control.

Floating Update: The construction-related closure below Weigh Station was lifted on October 2. The previously closed section is available for floating again, subject to any newer restrictions or hazards. Anglers should continue checking local access conditions before launching.

Fall Hatches

The Blackfoot's hatch selection is shifting away from summer terrestrials and toward the insects associated with cooler autumn weather. Beetles, ants, and a late-season hopper can still produce fish during warmer afternoons, especially around willow-lined banks and grassy edges.

BWOs are becoming an increasingly important part of the program, particularly when clouds or cooler weather move through. October Caddis are already being spotted, and large orange dries can still attract fish in broken water. Mahogany Duns and Hecubas are also worth watching for as the fall hatch cycle develops.

When fish aren't feeding on the surface, nymphing will be the more dependable approach. Try a Pat's Rubber Legs or Zirdle followed by a smaller Frenchie, Perdigon, or mayfly nymph. Focus on the deeper runs and current breaks where trout can feed without expending too much energy.

Streamer fishing may be one of the better ways to find quality fish this weekend. The combination of cooler water, fall behavior, and Saturday's wind creates a worthwhile opportunity to throw olive, black, tan, and white streamers. Work them slowly through buckets and boulder seams, occasionally varying the retrieve to trigger a reaction.

Weekend Outlook

Saturday's warmer conditions should create a good afternoon fishing window, although wind may require heavier rigs or protected water. Sunday looks cooler and more comfortable for anglers targeting fall mayflies, October Caddis, and streamers.

What's Working

Dry Flies

• October Caddis Adults #8–12

• BWO Dries #18–22

• Mahogany Duns #14–16

• Hecubas #10–12

• Purple Haze #16–20

• Parachute Adams #16–20

• Beetles #12–16

• Ants #14–18

• Chubby Chernobyls #10–14

Nymphs

• Pat's Rubber Legs #8–12

• Zirdles #8–10

• Frenchies #14–18

• Perdigons #16–20

• Duracells #14–18

• Pheasant Tails #16–20

• October Caddis Pupa #8–12

• BWO Nymphs #18–22

Streamers

• Sparkle Minnows

• Sculpzilla

• Mini Dungeons

• Swim Coach

• JJ Specials

• Thin Mints

• Olive and Black Woolly Buggers