Beaverhead River - Dillon - Montana
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Beaverhead River – Dillon - Water Flow Chart
Beaverhead River – Dillon - Weather report & radar
Beaverhead River – Dillon - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge |
| Winter Stoneflies | Afternoon | 16-20 | Black Stonefly Nymph | |
| February | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge |
| March | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge |
| Winter Stoneflies | Afternoon | 16-20 | Black Stonefly Nymph | |
| Blue Wing Olives | Late Afternoon | 18-20 | Sparkle Dun | |
| April | Blue Wing Olives | Afternoon | 16-20 | Sparkle Dun |
| Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge | |
| March Brown | Morning, Afternoon | 12-14 | March Brown Dun | |
| May | Caddis | Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, Iris Caddis |
| Blue Wing Olives | Evening | 18-20 | Blue Wing Olive | |
| Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge | |
| Pale Morning Dun | Morning | 16-18 | Pale Morning Dun Parachute | |
| June | Pale Morning Dun | Morning | 14-16 | Pale Morning Dun Parachute |
| Yellow Stonefly | Evening | 8-12 | Yellow Stimulator | |
| Green Drake | Afternoon | 10-12 | Green Drake | |
| July | Spruce Moth | Morning | 10-12 | Stimulator Spruce Moth |
| Hoppers | Mid Day | 8-12 | Hopper Pattern | |
| Caddis | Late Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| Pale Morning Dun | Morning | 14-16 | Pale Morning Dun Parachute | |
| August | Spruce Moth | Morning | 10-12 | Stimulator Spruce Moth |
| Hoppers | Mid Day | 8-12 | Hopper Pattern | |
| Caddis | Late Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| September | Hoppers | Mid Day | 8-12 | Hopper Pattern |
| Blue Wing Olives | Evening | 18-20 | Blue Wing Olive | |
| Caddis | Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| October | Blue Wing Olives | Afternoon | 18-20 | Blue Wing Olive |
| Caddis | Afternoon | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| November | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge |
| December | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge |
Beaverhead River – Dillon Access Points
The Beaverhead River – Dillon has several excellent points for avid fly fishing enthusiasts. The following access points are ideal :
- High Bridge: This point has easy access and often less crowded due to its offbeat location.
- Poindexter Slough: A tailwater fishery, it’s open for fishing all year and attracts less recreational floaters.
- Clark Canyon Reservoir: A quick 20-mile drive from Dillon, it is the Beaverhead River’s primary source. It is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, making it a major draw for fly fishermen.
- Barretts Park: Located just north of Dillon, it’s a popular spot due to convenient access and plenty of public space.
- Grasshopper Creek: This creek offers a rugged fishing experience and is best for experienced fishermen.
Before you head out, always ensure that you have the necessary fishing permits and adhere to the local fishing regulations.
Beaverhead River – Dillon Fishing Spots
- Poindexter Slough: An easily accessible, spring-fed channel with high densities of trout.
- High Bridge: A stretch from High Bridge to Pipe Organ Bridge is known for larger fish, particularly brown trout.
- Dewey’s Hole: Just below Barrett’s Dam, it’s a popular spot with pools and riffles teeming with trout.
- Clark’s Lookout State Park: Provides easy public access and more relaxed fishing.
- Barrett’s Park: A tail-water stretch, perfect for wading and offers larger trout.
Beaverhead River – Dillon Local Fish Species
- Brown Trout: The Beaverhead River is famous for its large population of brown trout, making it a favorite spot for anglers.
- Rainbow Trout: Known for their fighting spirit, Rainbow trout are also a major target for fly fishing in this area.
- Cutthroat Trout: This native Montana fish is another important species targeted by fly fishermen on the Beaverhead River.
- Mountain Whitefish: While often overlooked, the Mountain Whitefish is a common catch on the Beaverhead and can provide plenty of sport for fly fishermen.
- Burbot: This lesser-known fish species is also targeted in the Beaverhead River due to its unique appearance and fight.
- Yellow Perch: An abundant species in the Beaverhead River that can provide non-stop action for fly fishers.
- Brook Trout: The smallest of the trout species found in the Beaverhead River, Brook Trout offer a different challenge for fly fishermen.
- Northern Pike: A large predatory fish species. While not as common as the trout species mentioned, fly fishing for Northern Pike in the Beaverhead River can be a thrilling experience.
About the Beaverhead River – Dillon
The Beaverhead River is a wildly fascinating water body situated in Dillon, Montana, offering a picturesque and rich history. Originating from Clark Canyon Reservoir, it winds its way north as an important tributary of the Jefferson River.
This world-class trout fishery, was discovered more than 200 years ago by the Lewis and Clark Expedition and named for a rock formation in its upper reaches, which resembled a beaver’s head.
Over time, the Beaverhead River has served multiple purposes. In the past, it played a vital role as a watering source for Native American tribes and early settlers. In the present day, it’s regarded as a hub for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, drawing visitors from all over the globe.
In spite of substantial changes over centuries, the river continues to be a remarkable manifestation of nature’s endless beauty and resilience.
Community Contributions
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