!! Weigh Station to the confluence is closed until October 31st !!

Boats can still take out at Weigh Station, but are prohibited from putting in.

The Blackfoot is also dropping into lower summer flows, with the Bonner gauge around 987 cfs. That is down from the last report and gives the river a clearer, more technical feel. There is still enough water to fish, but anglers should focus on mornings, shade, oxygenated riffles, and deeper buckets. The middle of the day will be tougher with hot, smoky weather and warming water.

Access is important right now. From July 15 through October 31, you cannot put in at or float past the Weigh Station boat launch/takeout. The Blackfoot is closed to floating from Weigh Station to the confluence of the Clark Fork. Treat Weigh Station as the last takeout above the closure and plan any float accordingly.

The late-spring and early-summer hatch window is over, and the river is shifting into mid-to-late summer fishing. Terrestrials are becoming more important along grassy banks, willow edges, and undercut shade. Hoppers, ants, and beetles should continue to gain importance as the hot weather builds. Late-stage PMD spinners, Tricos, caddis, Yellow Sallies, and the final drakes are the bugs to watch.

PMD spinner action is worth looking for in the morning on slow slicks, foam lines, tailouts, and soft riffle edges. These fish can be subtle, so take time to watch before casting. Tricos may also show in calmer water during the morning. Caddis fishing in the evenings can be good when the sun starts to set, but keep water temps in mind and fish responsibly if the river gets warm.

Weather near Bonner remains hot and smoky, with isolated thunderstorm chances. Fish early, handle trout gently, and focus on bank shade, riffle oxygen, and deeper slots.

What's Working

Dry Flies

• Hoppers #8-12
• Ants #12-16
• Beetles #12-16
• Chubby Chernobyls #8-14
• Water Walkers #8-12
• PMD Spinners #14-18
• Tricos #18-22
• Yellow Sallies #14-16
• Elk Hair Caddis #14-18
• X-Caddis #14-18
• Purple Haze #14-18
• Parachute Adams #14-18

Nymphs

• Double Bead Stones #8-10
• Zirdles #8-10
• Pat's Rubber Legs #8-10
• Frenchies #14-18
• Split Case PMDs #14-18
• Perdigons #14-18
• Pheasant Tails #14-18
• Caddis Pupa #12-16
• Jigged Hare's Ears #14-16

Streamers

• Sparkle Minnows
• Swim Coach
• Mini Dungeons
• Peanut Envy
• Sculpzilla
• Thin Mint
• Woolly Buggers
• JJ Special
• Olive and black articulated streamers