If you’re looking to fish the Kootenai right now, Linehan Outfitting warns that the river is currently having identity issues (to humanize it). As of March 20th and 21st, Libby Dam is cranking the volume, ramping outflows from a slow 6.0 kcfs up to a roaring 16.0 kcfs. Combined with 40-degree water and “off-color” visibility, the conditions are categorized as “sketchy” through the middle of next week.
The trout are currently as lethargic as a sloth, sticking to the soft water and deep runs while ignoring the riffles entirely. If you’re brave enough to face the rain and 40-degree air temps, stick to nymphs like Zebra Midges or slow-pulsed streamers; just don’t expect any dry fly action or access to the closed stretch from the Dam to Fisher River bridge.
When you aren’t dodging icy boat ramps, Linehan Outfitting suggests distracting yourself with the boys of summer or some shiny new carbon fiber.
As always, Linehan Outfitting keeps their eyes on the Red Sox, and, for those interested, they say the team is looking sharp in Spring Training with Garrett Crochet leading a sturdy rotation, and there’s high hope that a healthy Tristan Casas can help the 2025 playoff squad make another run.
If baseball isn’t enough to soothe your soul, Linehan Outfitters recommends gearing up with the new Orvis Recon or Helios rods to make sure you’re ready when the water finally clears.
You can check out their full report here.