This Kootenai River Montana fishing report is being brought to you by Orvis Endorsed Linehan Outfitting. This report will be updated weekly to provide current conditions, weather, hatches, patterns, and flows to our local waters and across the state.
In-flow from Lake Koocanusa: approximately 6000cfs
Flows from Libby Dam: approximately 7000cfs
Hatches: midge, baetis
Water temperature at stilling basin below Libby Dam: approximately 49 degrees
patterns: zebra midge, Uke’s brown perdigon, wire worm, perdigons, smaller streamers in tan, black and red, midge cluster, parachute Adams, Pat’s stonefly, flashback pheasant tail nymph, hare’s ears, prince nymphs, water walkers, chubbies.
Presently the Kootenai is clear and in good shape. We have boats on the water through October and it will continue to fish perfectly well.
Discharge from Libby Dam is now approximately 4000cfs. We’re deep into the fall now and the water is gin clear. What does that mean? It means time to fish a ten foot leader with 5x tippet.
Dry fly action is still in play. Look for fish in 1-6 feet of water and don’t be afraid to show them the fly a few times. Baetis are now hatching at certain times during the day. If you see fish rising, definitely think #18 or #16 purple haze or parachute adams.
Short leash nymphing is also very productive at the moment. Pat’s rubber legged stoneflies in coffee color and size 16 or 18 mayfly beadheads will get the job done. Target riffles, faster runs with depth of 2-4 feet and mid-river monster foam seams.
Streamer fishing is best bet if you’re looking for one solid fish. Again, get the fly down. Fish it slowly and thump and pulse like it’s a wounded minnow. If you get a pull, stop it. Let it sink. Then pulse it again. While not as productive as nymphing throughout the day, pulling junk will move a nicer fish or two. This is the time of year when bigger fish will be bulking up. Stick with it. You’ll get a nice one.
Give a call anytime if you need more Kootenai River details or information on any our hunting or fishing adventures. And please check out our e-commerce site for all Linehan Outfitting branded soft wear and hats and all Orvis gear as well. The new Orvis Helios rods are here and you have to cast one to believe! https://linehan-outfitting.myshopify.com/
