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Montana offers a distinctive American angler sportfishing experience on the Bitterroot River. The wading experience is fantastic, as you can easily see large fish in the water. Despite the perception of simplicity, some guides humorously nickname the Bitterroot River in Montana the "Betternot" due to the difficulty of catching trout that remains elusive.
Fishing on this river is considered challenging, as it is known to be the most difficult in the area, making catching a fish feel like a real accomplishment on certain days. However, that is precisely where its attraction resides. It is an excellent place for fishing, with its stunning environment, fly fishing, and the chance to experience an incredible insect emergence.
The Bitterroot River
The Bitterroot River is a beloved destination for all those seeking a complete American angler sportfishing experience. Winding through the picturesque Bitterroot Valley, the river offers stunning natural scenery and a diverse range of fish, appealing to anglers of every skill level. Its crystal-clear waters stand in stark contrast to the rugged Bitterroot Mountains, providing an ideal setting for sportfishing in Montana.
Timing is essential when it comes to sportfishing for Montana anglers on the Bitterroot River. The Skwala's appearance in spring entices fishermen to come out of hibernation and enjoy an exhilarating fishing adventure. You want moderately chilly nights just above freezing, which wakes up the stoneflies that fish want.
Fish Species for Sportfishing in Montana
When fishing in the Bitterroot River, you will encounter various species that are highly sought after by fishermen. The Westslope Cutthroat Trout, a species native to the region, is considered one of the most important catches in the river. These trout, known for their vibrant colors and lively fights, are a symbol of the strong fishing tradition in the Bitterroot region and are adored by both local and visiting anglers. The cold, clear river waters provide the perfect conditions for the fish to thrive, allowing them to support a strong population that ensures a successful fishing sector. Catching a Cutthroat Trout on the Bitterroot River in Montana goes beyond simply catching a fish for an angler—it includes participating in a well-established fly fishing tradition passed down through the years.
Rainbow and Brown Trout populations are also thriving in the Bitterroot River. You’ll find Rainbow Trout, known for its acrobatic jumps and strong bursts of speed, in fast-moving sections of the stream. Meanwhile, Brown Trout are harder to locate and usually inhabit deep pools and under banks, appealing to anglers seeking a challenging fishing adventure. There are many different types of trout in the Bitterroot River, providing many opportunities to test your skills and enjoy the famous sportfishing in Montana.
American Angler Sportfishing in Fishing the Bitterroot River
The Bitterroot River is renowned as one of the top rivers for sportfishing in Montana, and with good cause.
Hannon Memorial to Wallace Crawford
The Bitterroot River starts near the Hannon Memorial Fishing Access Site and flows below Connor, Montana. This stretch is excellent for wade fishing and floating because it is moderate in size and free of diversion dams or obstructions.
The fish in this section of the Bitterroot River are typically smaller than fish in other parts. Nevertheless, despite its small fish, it compensates with a delightful fishing setting. It also contains abundant populations of cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout.
Because this section is farthest from Missoula, it experiences less fishing and floating activity compared to downstream areas. Consequently, fishing is less challenging, making it easier to catch trout. Mix in the beautiful landscape, and you'll have the perfect ingredients for an enjoyable day out at sea.
This part of the Bitterroot River is ideal for those who enjoy fishing in riffles, as there are many long riffles here. Because this section does not experience the de-watering that happens downstream, it remains suitable for fishing throughout the summer with the assistance of cooler flows from Painted Rocks Reservoir. Tiny traditional dry flies, used in the shallow, fast-moving sections, continue to be effective through midsummer. Meanwhile, other parts of the Bitterroot River become less productive because of high temperatures and reduced water levels.
Generally, if you come to the Bitterroot River in the later summer or during low water levels, fishing should be no problem. Although the chances of catching a particularly large rainbow trout are lower than downstream, the improved river flow and colder water temperatures enhance the possibility of a productive fishing trip.
Wallace Crawford to Bell Crossing FAS
This section, located between Hamilton and Victor, provides excellent fishing opportunities, particularly after spring melt in June, early July, and fall. In the summer, when heavy irrigation leads to low water levels and slow river flows cause high water temperatures, fishing can be limited. The pressure along this section of the river is typically less than what is observed farther downstream.
The fascinating aspect of this portion of the Bitterroot River is the abundance of braids and channels. These channels create an ideal spot for the wading angler, as most rafts usually stick to the main channel. In the summer, it is simple to walk through the river. The decreased speed and reduced water levels eliminate most of the dangers. The gravel bars also provide convenient paths for wading and walking along the shore. While the fishing access sites are spread out in this area, wade anglers can easily find solitude by walking to side channels from one of these sites for a pleasant fishing experience.
The fish in this area tend to be bigger than those found upstream. Nevertheless, you should expect fewer fish per mile compared to other parts of the river. To succeed at fishing in this area, you must locate prime fishing spots like holes, undercut banks, riffles, and around fallen trees.
When navigating this section of the Bitterroot River, expect to encounter some spots where you'll need to carry your boat. Several diversion dams and other irrigation equipment can be seen along this stretch of the river.
Bell Crossing to Florence Bridge FAS
The population of rainbow trout in this part of the river increased again thanks to increased water flow and improved habitat. Wade fishing becomes increasingly challenging as the river widens and deepens.
This section of the Bitterroot River does not have the same channels and gravel bars as other parts of the river. Instead, the primary activity for fly fishing is provided by numerous flats, deep holes, and interesting undercut banks.
This part of the river can experience high activity levels during the summer, especially on sunny weekend days. Add to that the river's nearness to Missoula and its surrounding areas, and you'll find numerous individuals leisurely drifting down the river in a diverse array of vessels, including boats, inflatable rafts, and float tubes.
The optimal period for fishing in this section of the Bitterroot River is in the spring, summer, and autumn. In the summer, particularly in years with low water levels, this part of the Bitterroot River can become very warm, affecting the quality of trout fishing.
Florence Bridge FAS to Clark Fork
This part of the Bitterroot River is popular for recreational floating and shouldn't be ignored by visiting fishermen. Although trout numbers are smaller than those upstream, the rainbow trout in this section can grow to a significant size. This stretch of the Bitterroot River also contains numerous channels, sloughs, and gravel bars.
The top trout fishing on this part of the Bitterroot River happens in spring, early summer, and fall. In the summer's midpoint, the water temperatures can become too high for successful fishing.
Fishing the East and West Forks
The Bitterroot River originates in Connor, where the East Fork Bitterroot River and the West Fork Bitterroot River meet. Both of these forks provide high-quality opportunities for sportfishing in Montana, with the additional benefit of minimal competition.
The East Fork Bitterroot River flows out of the Anaconda-Pintlar Wilderness mountains. From its source to near the town of Sula, the river meanders through National Forest lands with the East Fork Road running alongside it. Fishing here offers excellent opportunities to catch smaller cutthroat trout. Because fishing pressure is typically low, the cutthroat trout easily come to the surface to take smaller dry flies that are cast to them. Due to the narrowness of the river throughout most of its course, it is generally simple to cast to any part of the river, although wading can be difficult due to the swift current and large rocks.
The West Fork Bitterroot River starts at the border of Montana and Idaho, stretching for approximately ten miles before entering Painted Rocks Lake. Above Painted Rocks Reservoir on the West Fork Bitterroot River, there is a plentiful population of smaller rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout. Access to most of this area is convenient because the river runs through National Forest lands and is paralleled by the West Fork Road.
Underneath Painted Rocks Reservoir, the West Fork Bitterroot River exhibits a changed nature. Here, you will find a few large rainbow and brown trout. Most big fish are caught using large streamers or nymphs, typically fished near undercut banks and numerous log jams in the river.
Experience The Bitterroot Mile Club!
Following an exciting day of fishing on the Bitterroot River, there is no more relaxing location than The Bitterroot Mile Club. Located in the center of Montana's beautiful scenery, TBMC provides fishermen with an excellent mix of comfort and ease. Whether you want to unwind in comfortable lodging or swap fishing stories with other fishermen, this location provides all the essentials to elevate your Montana fishing experience. Make arrangements for your visit and enjoy the exceptional hospitality and peaceful ambiance that only The Bitterroot Mile Club can provide. Reserve your stay now!