Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Big Hole River - Glen - 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 Warmest part of the day 20 - 22 Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge
February Midges Warmest part of the day 20 - 22 Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge
March Midges, Blue-winged Olives Afternoon 16 - 20 BWO Comparadun, Mercury Midge
April Blue-winged Olives, Skwala Stoneflies Afternoon 12 - 16 Pat’s Rubber Legs, BWO Sparkle Dun
May Blue-winged Olives, Caddis, Salmonflies Afternoon - Evening 8 - 16 Elk Hair Caddis, Rogue Foam Salmonfly
June Stoneflies, PMDs, Caddis Morning - Evening 8 - 16 Yellow Sally, PMD Thorax Dun, Elk Hair Caddis
July PMDs, Caddis, Terrestrials Morning - Evening 8 - 16 Chubby Chernobyl, PMD Comparadun, Henry’s Fork Caddis
August Hoppers, Ants, Caddis Mid-morning - Evening 6 - 16 Dave’s Hopper, Foam Beetle, Bloom’s Caddis
September Terrestrials, Blue-winged Olives Morning - Evening 12 - 20 Parachute Hopper, Fur Ant, BWO Comparadun
October Blue-winged Olives, Midges Afternoon 16 - 22 BWO Sparkle Dun, Zebra Midge
December No hatch n/a n/a n/a

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 Big Hole River – Glen area offers numerous top spots for the passionate fly fisher. Integrating natural beauty with a rich fishing environment, it stands out as a perfect destination. A few of these prime locations include:

  • Jerry Creek: This tributary gives a perfect ground for smaller trout and a serene environment.
  • Maiden Rock: Known for its blanket hatches of mayflies, it’s a promising spot for large brown trout.
  • Canyon Stretch: Offering a long stretch of river, it hosts some of the river’s biggest fish due to its varying fast and slow waters.
  • Lower River: This section harbours large trout and plenty of hatches for fly fishing.
  • Brownes Bridge: Famous rainbow trout section with structured bankside and great hatch availability.

Remember, different spots yield different results depending on the time of year and varying water temperatures. You might find the most incredible catch where you least expect it!

Best Access Points

The Big Hole River in Glen offers many premier spots for fly fishing. Here are some of the best access points:

  • Salmonfly Fishing Access Site: Offers boat launch and spectacular water access for top-notch fishing.
  • Maidenrock Fishing Access Site: Nestled in a wildlife-rich region, it is perfect for fly fishing.
  • Divide Bridge Campground: Besides comfortable camping facilities, it provides exceptional river access.
  • Polaris Bridge Fishing Access Site: Proximity to the Bitterroot Range makes this spot highly scenic and great for fishing.

Most of these sites provide amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables. Keep in mind, camping is usually permitted for a maximum of 14 days. Be sure to check specific regulations and restrictions concerning camping and fire safety measures at each site.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: Known for their strength and endurance, catching a Brown Trout is a major achievement for many fly fishers. They prefer cooler waters, often hiding near submerged rocks or logs.
  • Rainbow Trout: With their distinct pink striping and aggressive fights, Rainbow Trout are a common target in the Big Hole River. They are especially abundant in late spring and early summer when their preferred foods like mayflies and caddisflies are plentiful.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Often overlooked but abundant in the Big Hole, Mountain Whitefish are a fun and reliable target for fly fishers. They are less picky eaters than many trout species and thus can be caught with a wide variety of flies.
  • Brook Trout: These small, colorful fish are a delightful catch on light tackle. While not as large as other species, they are plentiful and offer consistent action.
  • Arctic Grayling: Known for their striking dorsal fin, Arctic Grayling are a unique and exciting catch that can be targeted on the Big Hole River.
  • Westslope Cutthroat Trout: Named for the red slash under their jaw, Westslope Cutthroat Trout are a Montana native that fly fishers love to target.
  • Bull Trout: These fish are known for their large size and aggressive behavior. Catching one is a true thrill, but they are also listed as a threatened species, so it’s important to practice catch and release.
  • White Sucker: While not a traditional gamefish, White Suckers are plentiful in the Big Hole. Fishing for them can be a fun change of pace and their willingness to take a fly makes them great for beginner fly fishers.

About The River

Originally known as the Big Hole, Glen is a stunning and remote corner of Montana that boasts one of the country’s most prolific trout streams. The Big Hole River, a blue-ribbon trout stream, meanders through this tranquil area giving anglers an unparalleled fishing experience.

Historically, this area was a favored hunting ground of the Shoshone people due to its rich game. The Lewis & Clark Expedition passed through the region in 1805, documenting its pristine wilderness. Later in the 19th century, it became a hub during the Montana gold rush.

Key facts about the Big Hole River include:

  • The River is approximately 153 miles long
  • It’s among the last undammed rivers in the U.S.
  • It’s famed for its population of fluvial Arctic Grayling, a species now considered for federal protection

Today, the charming community of Glen encourages folks who appreciate natural beauty and the great outdoors to pay a visit and dip a fishing line into the glorious Big Hole River.

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