Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Smith River - Eden - 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 Midge Afternoon #20-26 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Stoneflies Afternoon #16-20 Prince Nymph, Hare's Ear
February Midge Afternoon #20-26 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-22 Pheasant Tail Nymph, Foam Emergers
March Midge Afternoon #20-26 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-22 Pheasant Tail Nymph, Foam Emergers
April Caddisflies Afternoon #14-18 Godard Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #18-22 Pheasant Tail Nymph, Foam Emergers
May Mayflies Morning #12-16 Ephemera Danica, Sawyer's Pheasant Tail
Caddisflies Afternoon #14-18 Godard Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
June Mayflies Morning #12-16 Ephemera Danica, Sawyer's Pheasant Tail
Stoneflies Evening #8-12 Golden Stone, Black Stonefly
July Trico Mayflies Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, CDC Spinner
Hoppers Midday #10-14 Dave's Hopper, Foam Hoppers
August Trico Mayflies Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, CDC Spinner
Hoppers Midday #10-14 Dave's Hopper, Foam Hoppers
September Mahogany Dun Afternoon #12-16 Mahogany Dun Dry Fly, Parachute Adams
Caddisflies Evening #14-18 Godard Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #18-22 Pheasant Tail Nymph, Foam Emergers
Caddisflies Evening #14-18 Godard Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
November Midge Afternoon #20-26 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
December Midge Afternoon #20-26 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 Smith River in Eden offers a variety of excellent spots for fly fishing. These renowned spots are rich in diverse fish species and provide scenic beauty that adds to the ultimate fishing experience.

  • Camp Baker: This spot presents an ideal habitat for brown trout, rainbow trout, and more.
  • Eagle Canyon: Known for its clear waters, fly fishers can easily spot and catch large salmon.
  • Sunrise Ferry: This spot provides an excellent landscape for fly fishing and is home to a variety of trout species.
  • Divide Bridge: Famous for the high probability of catching rainbow trout, this spot invites anglers all year round.
  • Rainbow Rock: This spot showcases a colorful variety of fish and is aptly named after the Rainbow Trout species that inhabit it.

Remember to adhere to all fishing regulations while enjoying your fly fishing experience on the Smith River.

Best Access Points

The Smith River in Eden provides some of the best fly fishing locations with abundant fish species. Here are some access points:

  • Bridge – Dry Creek Rd: A great entry spot providing good river coverage and fish spots. Can be reached by heading north on Dry Creek Road from Eden.
  • Camp Baker: It’s a public fishing access point as well as a put-in spot for float fishing. Locate just off Eden Rd.
  • Eden Bridge: Offers easy public river access on both sides of the bridge. Best accessed via Smith River Rd.
  • Cottonwood Campground: Besides being a camping location, the area off Hwy 287 provides good access for anglers.
  • Truly Bridge: Located south of Eden, Truly Bridge gives easy access to the Smith River.

Note: Always check local fishing regulations, respect private property, and ensure you have the required fishing permits and licenses.

Local Fish

  • Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, this fish species is the most popular amongst fly anglers due to its impressive size and strong fight.
  • Steelhead: A sea-run version of the rainbow trout, Steelhead are recognized for their long-distance migrations and are a favorite amongst local fly fishers.
  • Coastal Cutthroat Trout: This native trout species is another popular catch on the Smith River, recognized for its colorful markings and aggressive behavior.
  • Pacific Lamprey: Although less common, these ancient fish are still targeted by some intrepid fly fishers.
  • Coho Salmon: Also known as Silver Salmon, these fish are sought after for their acrobatic fights and tasty flesh.
  • Brown Trout: Introduced to the Smith River, these fish have flourished and provide an exciting challenge for fly fishers.
  • Sea-Run Brook Trout: A highly prized catch due to their aggressive takes and beautiful coloring.
  • Chum Salmon: Although smaller than their Chinook and Coho relatives, Chum Salmon are still a favorite catch due to their feisty battle on the line.

About The River

It’s quite a journey to explore the marvelous Smith River in Eden, renowned as one of the most pristine ecosystems in the U.S. This river’s legend starts in the heart of the remote Klamath Mountains of California, weaving a fascinating tale of geology, ecology, and human history.

The Smith River is a habitat par excellence for a breadth of fish species, especially salmon and steelhead. Its journey of over 200 miles is untrammeled by dams, ensuring an uninterrupted lifeline for these aquatic denizens.

  • The Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, named after a famous explorer, guards some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world.
  • The Smith River National Recreation Area protects the river’s beauty and biodiversity, offering ample opportunities for fishing, camping, and white-water rafting.

The history of the Smith River is integral to the Native American tribes of Northern California, such as the Tolowa, Yurok, and Chilula. These indigenes have lived with the river’s bounty for thousands of years, shaping a legacy of symbiosis and stewardship that we can all learn from.

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