Kootenai River - below Libby Dam - Montana
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Kootenai River – below Libby Dam - Water Flow Chart
Kootenai River – below Libby Dam - Weather report & radar
Kootenai River – below Libby Dam - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midge | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge |
| February | Midge | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge |
| Stoneflies | All Day | 6-10 | Pats Rubber legs | |
| March | Midge | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge |
| Stoneflies | All Day | 6-10 | Pats Rubber legs | |
| Blue Wing Olives | Afternoon | 14-20 | Pheasant Tail | |
| April | Blue Wing Olives | Afternoon | 14-20 | Pheasant Tail |
| Skwala Stonefly | All Day | 8-12 | Skwala Adult | |
| May | Blue Wing Olives | Afternoon | 14-20 | Pheasant Tail |
| Salmon Flies | All Day | 6-8 | Salmon Fly Dry | |
| June | Green Drakes | Afternoon-Evening | 10-14 | Green Drake Dry |
| July | Pale Morning Dun | Afternoon | 16-20 | PMD Dry Fly |
| August | Caddis | Evening | 14-18 | X-Caddis |
| Hoppers | All Day | 6-10 | Parachute Hopper | |
| September | Caddis | Evening | 14-18 | X-Caddis |
| Mahogany Duns | Afternoon | 16-20 | Mahogany Dry Fly | |
| October | Midge | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge |
| Blue Wing Olives | Afternoon | 16-20 | Pheasant tail | |
| November | Midge | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge |
| December | Midge | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge |
Kootenai River – below Libby Dam Access Points
The Kootenai River in Montana is an excellent spot for fly fish enthusiasts, especially below the Libby Dam. There are three key access points:
- Troy Bridge: This is the most convenient starting point below Libby Dam. With nearby parking and easy river access, it’s ideal for a full day of fly fishing.
- Osprey Landing Boat Ramp: Located just a few miles downstream of Troy Bridge, this site features plenty of parking and a well-maintained boat ramp. Recommended for both float and wade fishing.
- Yaak River Confluence: This is perfect for more experienced anglers who prefer quiet and secluded fishing spots. Access is from Highway 2, then by foot through public land to the river.
Kootenai River – below Libby Dam Fishing Spots
The Kootenai River below the Libby Dam offers impeccable spots perfect for fly fishing enthusiasts. Experience the thrill of fishing in the clear, cold waters renowned for a diverse range of aquatic life. Here’s a brief on some of the best spots:
- Libby Dam Tailwaters: This place offers year-round fishing just downstream from the dam.
- The Idaho-Montana border: Particularly the region around Troy, renowned for big rainbow trout catches.
- Leona’s Bridge: An ideal location with easy river access and a high concentration of fishes.
- Kootenai Falls: A hotspot for fishing enthusiasts due to its scenic beauty and teeming life.
- Pipe Creek: It’s a restful spot near the confluence with Kootenai River, abundant with a variety of fishes.
Remember to always check local regulations before fishing at any location to ensure you’re adhering to all appropriate rules and guidelines.
Kootenai River – below Libby Dam Local Fish Species
- Rainbow Trout: These colorful fish are a favorite among fly fishers as they’re plentiful and put up a good fight.
- Brook Trout: Due to their splashes of red and orange, these fish are easy to spot in the clear Kootenai River.
- Mountain Whitefish: Found in abundance in the Kootenai River, these fish provide a steady source of action for fly fishers.
- Westslope Cutthroat Trout: Native to the area, these stunning fish are thrilling to catch on a fly rod.
- Bull Trout: One of the larger species targeted for fly fishing in the Kootenai River, these are eagerly sought after by anglers for their size and strength.
- Brown Trout: Though not as common as other trout species, the thrill of catching a sizeable brown trout keeps anglers returning.
- Northern Pike: These aggressive predators can be a challenge to catch on a fly rod, but the effort is well worth it.
- Smallmouth Bass: They provide an exciting fishing experience as they put up a strong resistance when caught on a fly rod.
About the Kootenai River – below Libby Dam
If you’re fascinated by rivers with rich historical roots, then you must learn about the Kootenai River below the Libby Dam. This captivating river is a lifeline in the northwest corner of Montana.
The Kootenai River was originally home to the Kootenai Tribe, who relied on the river’s bounty for sustenance. Its crystal-clear water was also used for transportation and trade.
- Epicenter of the Fur Trade: During the 1800s, the river became an important route for the fur trade, playing an essential role in the European and local economies.
- Installation of Libby Dam: In the mid-20th century, the iconic Libby Dam was built over the Kootenai River, drastically altering its course. This modification has been a source of interest for many environmental and historical researchers.
Currently, the picturesque Kootenai River is a beloved destination for fishing, wildlife viewing, and other recreational activities. Its compelling past only adds to its allure!
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