Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Blackfoot River - Bonner - 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 20-22 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
February Midges Afternoon 20-22 Griffiths Gnat, Fuzzy Wuzzy
March Midges Afternoon 20-22 Griffiths Gnat, RS2
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 20-22 Rusty Spinner, RS2
April Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-20 Rusty Spinner, Pheasant Tail
March Browns Afternoon 14-16 Hare's Ear, Parachute Adams
May Slate Grey Drakes All Day 12-14 Pheasant Tail, Para Drake
Sculpin Morning/Evening 4-6 Zoo Cougar, Woolly Bugger
Golden Stoneflies Afternoon 6-8 Double Dutch Bug, Stimulator
June Salmon Flies Afternoon 2-6 Rogue Foam Stone Fly, Chubby Chernobyl
Green Drakes Afternoon 10-12 Green Drake Dun, Hare’s Ear
Golden Stoneflies Afternoon 6-8 Double Dutch Bug, Stimulator
Caddis Flies Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
July Trico Mayflies Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, Hi-Vis Trico Spinner
PMDs Morning 16-18 PMD Cripple, PMD Thorax
Golden Stoneflies Afternoon 6-8 Double Dutch Bug, Stimulator
Grasshoppers Morning 8-12 Cloud Hopper, Thunder Thighs Hopper
August Grasshoppers All Day 8-12 Cloud Hopper, Chubby Chernobyl
Yellow Sallies Night 14-16 Yellow Sally Stone, Yellow Stimulator
Ants All Day 16-20 Hi-Vis Foam Ant, Fur Ant
September Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-20 BWO Cripple, BWO Thorax
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-20 BWO Cripple, BWO Thorax
November Midges Afternoon 20-22 Black Beauty, RS2
December Midges Afternoon 20-22 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge

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 Blackfoot River in Bonner, Montana, offers diverse and exemplary fly fishing opportunities. Some of the best spots on the river include:

  • River Junction: As the name suggests, this location is the confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork Rivers. The diverse range of fish species makes it a favorite spot for fly fishermen.
  • Thiboudeaux Rapids: An exciting location for adventurous anglers, this area offers excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing amidst fast-paced, roaring rapids.
  • Harry Morgan Fishing Access: This easily accessible area is great for wade fishing, offering both Rainbow and Brown Trout.
  • Russell Gates Campground: Along with being a spectacular camping spot, it is also known for its abundant Westslope Cutthroat Trout and whitefish populations.
  • Monture Creek: A tributary of the Blackfoot River, it’s quieter and great for anglers who prefer less crowd. Westslope Cutthroat trout is a common catch here.

Best Access Points

The Blackfoot River in Bonner, Montana offers a wealth of opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts from across the globe. Listed below are some of the best accessible points to fish:

  • Johnsrud Park: This public fishing access site is located approximately 8 miles east of Bonner. It offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing.
  • Ninemile Prairie Fishing Access: Located 9 miles east of Bonner, this site provides fishermen a chance to traverse more secluded parts of the river.
  • Corrick’s River Bend: Approximately 16 miles east of Bonner, this area provides a boat launch and access to prime fishing grounds.
  • Harry Morgan Fishing Access: Situated about 22 miles east of Bonner, this site is famed for its iridescent trout population.
  • River Junction Fishing Access: A little farther east of Bonner, this fishing access presents opportunities for more adventurous anglers to fish the main river and its tributaries.

Local Fish

  • Trout – Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brown Trout are the most common fish targeted on the Blackfoot River. These species are known for their aggressive nature and acrobatics when hooked.
  • Mountain Whitefish – Though not directly targeted for sports fishing, they often get caught while fly fishing for Trout and provide an enjoyable experience with their vigor and cunning.
  • Arctic Grayling – A less common, but special catch on the Blackfoot River. These fish are usually found in the quieter parts of the river and are known for their vibrant, sail-like dorsal fins.
  • Westlope Cutthroat Trout – Native to the Blackfoot River and are a prized catch. They can be identified by the brightly colored slash marks on their throats.
  • Bull Trout – A beautiful but challenging catch, these are ferocious fighters and one of the largest trout species on the Blackfoot River.
  • Brook Trout – Known for its striking colors and patterns, Brook Trout aren’t as common on the river but are a delight to catch.
  • Pike – An uncommon fly fishing target but still present in the river. Pike are long, lean, and fast fish known for their aggressive strikes.
  • Largemouth Bass – Not a typical catch on the Blackfoot River but still possible to find in certain parts. They’re renowned for their fight, making them a popular species for anglers.

About The River

The Blackfoot River, a treasure trove of history in Bonner, Montana, has been charming locals and tourists alike for centuries. This serpentine river, cloaked in legend and lore, has played an integral role in shaping the region’s habitat, lifestyle, and culture.

Originally known by the indigenous Salish as ‘Cokalahishkit’, the river was later renamed ‘Blackfoot’ by Lewis and Clark’s expedition. Few know that the infamous gold rush of the 1860s propelled the river into prominence.

  • The river’s fertile banks became home to several bustling communities.
  • It served key transportation routes during the westward expansion.

Today, the Blackfoot River still presents a vibrant picture of historical significance mixed with mesmerizing beauty. Whether its fly-fishing, rafting, or an enlightening historical exploration, this river never fails to enthrall. The time-honored Blackfoot River truly is a testament to Bonner’s rich history and enduring spirit.

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