Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…
Menu
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.
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midge | Mid-Late Afternoon | 16-22 | Griffith's Gnat |
| February | Midge | Mid-Late Afternoon | 16-22 | Griffith's Gnat |
| Blue Wing Olive | Late Afternoon | 16-20 | Blue Wing Olive Sparkle Dun | |
| March | Skwala Stoneflies | Afternoon | 8-12 | Skwala dry fly |
| Blue Wing Olive | Afternoon | 16-20 | Blue Wing Olive Sparkle Dun | |
| Midge | Mornings/Afternoons | 18-22 | Griffith's Gnat | |
| April | March Brown Mayfly | Afternoon | 12-14 | March Brown fly pattern |
| Blue Wing Olive | Afternoons | 16-20 | Blue Wing Olive Sparkle Dun | |
| Mother's Day Caddis | Afternoon-Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| May | Salmon Fly | Midday-Evening | 6-8 | Pat's Rubber Legs |
| Green Drake | Midday | 10-12 | Green Drake Cripple | |
| Golden Stonefly | Afternoon-Evening | 8-12 | Golden Stonefly Nymph | |
| Mother's Day Caddis | Afternoon-Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| June | Golden Stonefly | Afternoon-Evening | 8-12 | Golden Stonefly Nymph |
| Yellow Sally | Late Morning | 14-16 | Yellow Sally Stimulator | |
| Western Green Drakes | Afternoon-Late Evening | 10-12 | Green Drake Cripple | |
| PMD (Pale Morning Dun) | Morning | 14-18 | Pale Morning Dun Emerger | |
| July | Terrestrials (Hoppers, Ants, Beetles) | All Day | 10-14 | Chernobyl Hopper, Foam Beetle |
| Western Green Drakes | Afternoon-Late Evening | 10-12 | Green Drake Cripple | |
| PMD (Pale Morning Dun) | Morning | 14-18 | Pale Morning Dun Emerger | |
| August | Terrestrials (Hoppers, Ants, Beetles) | All Day | 10-14 | Chernobyl Hopper, Foam Beetle |
| Spruce Moth | Morning | 10-12 | Spruce Moth pattern | |
| September | Terrestrials (Hoppers, Ants, Beetles) | All Day | 10-14 | Chernobyl Hopper, Foam Beetle |
| Fall Baetis (Blue Wing Olive) | Afternoon’s | 18-22 | Blue Wing Olive Sparkle Dun | |
| October | Streamers | Early Morning/Late Evening | 4-8 | Black Bunny Leech |
| October Caddis | Afternoon-Evening | 8-10 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| November | Streamers | Early Morning/Late Evening | 4-8 | Black Bunny Leech |
| Midges | Mid-Late Afternoon | 16-22 | Griffith's Gnat | |
| December | Midges | Mid-Late Afternoon | 16-22 | Griffith's Gnat |
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.
The Bitterroot River in Missoula, Montana, is renowned for its premier fly fishing experience. Here are the best spots:
The Bitterroot River is a renowned fishing spot, particularly known for its excellent fly fishing prospects. Here are some of the most accessible points for fly fishing on this enchanting river surrounding Missoula:
These shady, cool stretches of water provide some of the best fly fishing experiences around Missoula.
Flowing through the heart of Montana, the Bitterroot River is a hidden gem of natural beauty with a rich history. Originating in the Bitterroot Mountains, it merges with the Clark Fork River right here in Missoula, decorating the landscape while serving as a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
The river gets its name from the Bitterroot Plant, a beloved symbol of resilience for Montana’s Native Americans. The Salish tribe, who inhabited this area for generations, often utilized this plant as a food source.
In the 19th century, the valley surrounding the river was explored by the famous Lewis and Clark expedition. Today, the river continues to be a vital part of Missoula’s ecosystem, providing a habitat for numerous fish and wildlife species. Here are some highlights:
The Bitterroot River – representing Montana’s beauty, history, and untamed spirit.
Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…
Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…