Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Beaverhead River - Barretts - Montana

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
February Midges Afternoon 18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
March Blue Winged Olives Late Morning-Afternoon 12-18 Blue Winged Olive, Sparkle Dun
April Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 14-18 Sparkle Dun, Adams
Midges Late Morning-Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
May Caddis Afternoon-Evening 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Salmonfly Afternoon-Evening 4-6 Rogue Foam, Boulder Boatman
June Pale Morning Duns Late Morning-Afternoon 16-18 Light Cahill, Yellow Humpy
Yellow Sallies Late Morning-Afternoon 14-16 Yellow Stone, Bullet Head Skwala
Caddis Evening 14-16 X-Caddis, Iris Caddis
July Pale Morning Duns Afternoon 16-18 Pale Morning Dun, Light Cahill
Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
August Brown Drakes Night 10-12 Brown Drake, Pheasant Tail Nymph
Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
September Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Blue Winged Olive, Sparkle Dun
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Blue Winged Olive, Sparkle Dun
November Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
December Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Beaverhead River – Barretts region in Montana is a must-visit for fly fishing enthusiasts. Here are some notable spots:

  • Poindexter Slough: Known for large trout, it is a fantastic five-mile spring creek perfect for wading and fly fishing.
  • Hoyt’s Crossing: This particular spot is famous for brown trout. The plethora of insects also make it great for dry fly fishing.
  • High Bridge: A deeper stretch of the Beaverhead River, it’s home to big brown trout. Using nymphs and streamers can be effective here.
  • Grasshopper Creek: A peaceful tributary of Beaverhead River, it has sizeable trouts and is excellent for a calm fly fishing experience.
  • The ‘Beav’: The tailwater below Clark Canyon Reservoir is regularly stocked with trout allowing for thrilling fly fishing experiences.

Best Access Points

The Beaverhead River, Barretts, provides abundant opportunities for fly fishing with its diverse aquatic life and scenic surroundings. Accessing the best points for fly fishing in this magnificent river includes popular areas such as:

  • High Bridge: The section below High Bridge provides excellent fishing for large trout.
  • Hitchcock Bridge: Fly fishing under this bridge is popular, with increased fish activity observed.
  • The Dam: Here, the combination of deep holes and fast flowing water make for an exciting fishing experience.
  • Barretts Park: Accessible year-round, offering fantastic fly fishing opportunities.
  • Riverfront RV Park: Though designed for campers, non-campers have equal access to the river’s edge from here, making it a preferred choice among many fly fishers.

Note that respecting private properties on the banks of the Beaverhead River is crucial, along with adhering to the local fishing regulations.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: The Beaverhead River hosts a significant population of Rainbow Trout, whose aggressive activity makes them a top target for fly fishing.
  • Brown Trout: Brown Trout are abundant in this area and sought after for their size and the challenge they present to fly fishers.
  • Brook Trout: Though not as common as the Rainbow or Brown Trout, the Brook Trout still makes a popular target for fly fishers on the Beaverhead River.
  • Cutthroat Trout: The colorful Cutthroat Trout, identifiable by its prominent red slash, is another beloved target for local fly fishers.
  • Mountain Whitefish: While not as sought after as the Trout species, Mountain Whitefish are fun to catch and are abundant in the Beaverhead River.
  • Northern Pike: A predatory species, Northern Pike can put up quite a fight, making them a thrilling catch for fly fishers.
  • Arctic Grayling: The Arctic Grayling is a rarer catch in the Beaverhead River, making it a prized target for some fly fishers.
  • Burbot: Also known as Ling, Burbot are another predatory species and a challenging but rewarding target species for fly fishing.

About The River

Discover the rich history and charming beauty of the Beaverhead River-Barretts. This beautiful river, located in Montana, is a noteworthy tributary of the towering Jefferson River. Its name, ‘Beaverhead’, owes to the Beaverhead Rock that early settlers felt resembled a beaver’s head.

Over the years, the river has served as an essential travel route, primarily during the beautiful Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. The Beaverhead River-Barretts became even more popular with the establishment of the gold industry in the late 19th century.

Today, the river offers numerous activities for the outdoor enthusiast, including fishing, rafting, and camping. The river, popular among anglers, boasts of a rich and diverse aquatic life, especially the coveted trout.

  • 1805: Lewis and Clark Expedition
  • 19th Century: Rise of the Gold Industry
  • Today: A hub for Outdoor Activities

The Beaverhead River – Barretts continues to stand as a symbol of Montana’s vivid past and vibrant natural beauty.

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