The Kootenai River also holds the state record for mountain whitefish at more than five pounds, which was also caught just below Libby Dam in 1987. The best access on this section is around Kootenai Falls, which has a natural area that provides easy shore access, and even a bridge that crosses the river. Gingerly plopping a dry fly into one of these slow water stretches is an excellent way to catch a large rainbow. Additionally, its sheer size makes finding prime fishing areas a challenge, especially for anglers lacking a boat. Lots of patience. The Kootenai River is so big, so broad, so deep and fast flowing that deciding where to start is no simple task. Kootenai River Flow: 7,000 Cubic Feet per second, 10-12 foot visibility, 57 degrees. Fly-fishing is far more than our profession, it’s our way of life. Because the flow of the river can vary dramatically, it is very important to pay attention to water level reports, especially if you plan to wade in. These two factors, along with no water diversions for irrigation, combine to allow the Kootenai River to avoid the “dog days of August” that often plague some other fine Montana trout streams. One area is around the many feeder rivers and streams of the Kootenai River. This section of the Kootenai River runs for thirty-three miles. The Kootenai River is a daunting river for fly fishing. Anyone wading the Kootenai River must also deal with the variable flows of the Kootenai itself—the unannounced and frequent releases from Libby Dam often quickly raise water levels and increase the flow rate. The water will still remain relatively cool even in the middle of August, and this time of year can present some real opportunities for catching some of the very large trout in the Kootenai. When water levels are high, there will also be some good opportunities in the deep pools and submerged vegetation where fish will gather. Estimates put trout populations on the Kootenai River between 2000 – 3000 per mile. Guests have private access to miles of … The popular Wolly Bugger, in sizes ranging from 4 – 2/0, is an excellent fly to use at this time. While most of the Kootenai River is open year round with quality fly fishing beginning as early as April - May. The Sea Eagle 350x Inflatable Fishing Kayak is ideal for solo anglers who need a boat that can run rapids and is easy for flat water paddling. Kootenai River in Northwest Montana as it braids around an island. Fisher River Flow: 177 cfs Yaak River Flow: 313 cfs Thompson River: 281 cfs Fishing Report: The River has stabilized at 7k, and most of the glacial silt has settled out. Hatches in early summer mean that caddis flies are a must for this time of year. Smaller flies are also more effective in catching the larger rainbows than then large, bushy flies commonly used on other Montana rivers. This section of the Kootenai River travels for seventeen miles. These large fish feed not only on flies and other fish, but the chopped up remains of the various fish that get caught in the turbines of Libby Dam. The end of May through June normally sees high run off so our private water, lakes and tributaries are our focus then. "It is one of the west's premier dry fly trout rivers," says Libby fly-fishing guide and river expert, Dave Blackburn who owns and operates Kootenai Angler. It is also one of the largest rivers in the area, beginning in British Columbia and flowing for 485 miles through western Montana and northern Idaho before turning north again and returning to Canada. The true monster fish, for those with the patience to chase them, are typically found within a mile or two downstream from Libby Dam. It will be updated frequently or as conditions change. The Kootenai River is considered a blue-ribbon trout fising river. A few to check out are listed below. Fishing is done except for the die hards. Being a big, fertile river with fairly strict fishing regulations (all trout between 13-18 inches must be released, 13-24 inches right below the dam), it is not surprising that fish counts are also very high. Below the falls, the Kootenai River runs through two miles of moderate whitewater, the severity of which depends on the river levels. Fly fishing in Montana is an experience not to be forgotten. Additionally, many of these braids and channels are not nearly as deep as out in the main current. Flies that are floated down the river right along the seams edge should successfully draw up the rainbows. Just park your car along the road and hop into the river. While wade fishing can still be deadly in these high currents, wade anglers can generally stick right along the shoreline in the slower water, wading up or down the river, casting to the trout that will be found in the flooded vegetation. However, it is the area below Libby Dam that presents the best fly fishing experience, and that is the portion of the Kootenai on which we will focus this article. Streamer and nymph patterns, weighted on a sink tip line, are used for this early spring fishing, bouncing them right along the bottom. Wildlife: The river canyon provides a year round home to white tail deer with frequent visits by mule deer, elk, and moose. Copyright 2002 - 2020 Big Sky Fishing.Com. Crayfish imitations, especially those that are designed to dive deep, also can work very well. The first dry fly fishing of the year begins in May, with the best dry fly fishing occurring during the summer. One bonus of the Kootenai River is that, since its flows are regulated by Libby Dam, the prime fishing portion of the Kootenai River generally runs clear even during spring run-off, although the feeder rivers can occasionally add some murk to the rivers clarity. Get directions to access points, boat ramps, and real-time USGS stream flow data. Four miles below the dam, a short class III rapid, called the Jennings Rapid, can either be floated through or easily portaged. The Kootenai River holds the state of Montana's rainbow trout record as well as its whitefish record. The Kootenai River is a daunting river for fly fishing. Related Article – Kootenai River Photographs. Instead, massive streamers—up to five inches long—are the flies of choice when chasing these trophy trout. Start times varying as the season progresses. Access is more difficult on this section of the Kootenai River, as it flows primarily through private property. During early spring and late fall when water levels are lower, the river narrows significantly and there will be extensive gravel bars exposed along the banks. The Kootenai River, due to its location in the far northwest corner of Montana, does not receive excessive amounts of fishing pressure. A portage of the falls is required, as it is over thirty-feet high. The Kootenai River is an interesting river for fly fishing. Libby Dam outflow is expected to remain at 7 kcfs through August. A tapered 9-foot leader, with tippet size 3X to 6X to match the flies you are throwing, is pretty standard. If you need a fix work a nymph deep. Season(s): Mid-March through end of November When chasing the larger trout of the Kootenai River it is worth remembering that a large trout feeds heavily on other fish, unlike the smaller trout that get most of their diet from aquatic insects. The Libby Dam and beyond that, down stream is where you will see that particular river. Last Day Fly Fishing the Kootenai River 20 April, 2020 Categories: Kootenai Angler. Northwest Montana has long, cold, cloudy winters, and a March fishing trip in this part of the state is unlikely to be a warm one. Visit our DIY Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Montana. The trout will not be impressed by lots of movement or awful presentations. A Kootenai River fishing trip is a spectacular and unique experience. Recent fishing regulations changes should help in getting fish populations and sizes up, as all rainbow trout between 13-18 inches must be released. This rapid is long and, depending on river flows, can provide a rough ride for inexperienced floaters or parties in canoes. Rafters and Kayakers can explore 100's of miles of rivers and streams. The rivers characteristics also make wade fishing difficult. kootenai-river-montana-fly-fishing-waters. The trick, of course, is catching them on this massive and somewhat intimidating river. Lake Koocanusa contains trout as well as kokanee salmon. Guided fly fishing well off the beaten path, in Montana and Idaho’s Kootenai River Country. It will be updated frequently or as conditions change. A third area to look for are any noticeable deep pools. Fly fishing the Kootenai River can be difficult. For anglers who aren’t interested in chasing after the trophy-sized trout that are found in the Kootenai River just below the dam, the Kootenai River has excellent populations of rainbow trout that average in the 12-15 inch range. One section known as China Rapids presents some excellent fishing opportunities in the deep pools found around the many rocks and riffles here. Install this DIY Fly Fish on your iPhone and then Add to Home Screen, __CONFIG_colors_palette__{"active_palette":0,"config":{"colors":{"62516":{"name":"Main Accent","parent":-1}},"gradients":[]},"palettes":[{"name":"Default Palette","value":{"colors":{"62516":{"val":"var(--tcb-skin-color-0)"}},"gradients":[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Kootenai River in Montana, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing in Glacier National Park, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Gallatin River in Montana, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Teton River in Montana, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Boulder River in Montana, [DIY] Guide to Fly Fishing the Clark Fork River in Montana, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Ruby River in Montana, DIY Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Montana. Copyright 2021 DIY Fly Fishing, all rights reserved. Except for two sections, floating the Kootenai River is not difficult, and offers a pleasant float. This Kootenai River fishing report is brought to you by Orvis Endorsed Outfitter Linehan Outfitting and provides current Kootenai River and fishing conditions. Just remember that to catch these monster trout requires patience. In 1973, the Libby Dam was built, forming Lake Koocanusa and which extends back into Canada. After emerging from the gorge, the Kootenai River continues on, with only small riffles and waves, to the Idaho border, which also is the lowest point of elevation in Montana. To fish in Montana, most anglers need two licenses: a Conservation License and a Fishing License. Linehan Outfitting Company is the best local source for all information surrounding the Kootenai River. Montana's record small mouth bass was caught on a Kootenai National Forest lake. The rainbow trout frequently move into these flooded waters in search of terrestrial insects, such as grasshoppers and ants. Additionally, the China Rapids, just upstream from Kootenai Falls, provides excellent fishing in the deep holes found among the rocks and boulders. If you are a regular here on RiverKeeper Flies, you know this is the third fly fishing road trip this year to Idaho and Montana.Here is a link to my post where I captured all the waters we fished during our last 29 day trip – Wrapping Up Our Fly Fishing Road Trip. The best rainbow trout fishing on the Kootenai River is found above Kootenai Falls, although the lower river of the Kootenai is making a comeback due to recent changes in fishing regulations. If we can be of assistance in any way to make your stay more enjoyable, please don’t to hesitate to let us know. These areas provide a mix of current, allowing the fish to find relief from the strong currents of the Kootenai. Fishing is allowed at all hours during open fishing seasons unless otherwise specified in District Exceptions to Standard Regulations. The Kootenai River's strong currents and unyielding waters created numerous broad river valleys and deep gorges. Unlike many other rivers in Montana, the holes on the Kootenai River are usually not all that obvious at a casual glance. Providing a truly uncrowded setting the Kootenai River maintains a high quality trout fishery. Just be careful where you hop. By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Linehan Outfitting Company, 482 Upper Ford Road, Troy, MT, 59935, fishmontana.com. As the river moves past the town of Libby, another 33-mile stretch can present some good fishing. While fishing the Kootenai can provide a unique and exciting experience for anglers, the river is not without its challenges. The Kootenai River’s canyon section flows between Montana’s Libby Dam and Bonners Ferry. For larger nymphs and streamers a 9-foot 6-wt with a sink tip fly line makes life easier. Jim's Big Sky Fishing    At one time this wild river, swollen with early summer snow melt and rain, ran free and ripped through northern Montana from its origin north of the Canadian border at Kootenay National Park. Fishing usually begins in the Kootenai in March or early April. Skattebo Reach Trail, on the lower river, is about 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) long, running from Brilliant to Glade. As a result, fishing pressure on the Kootenai River is generally moderate and is certainly nothing like what is found on the Missouri River or the Madison River. Water from Libby Dam can change the flow in a heart beat. Unlike most Montana rivers that can frequently run low and slow later in the summer, the Kootenai River generally runs high and fast through the middle of August. Montana Fishing Report 11-30-2020 November 30, 2020 This Kootenai River fishing report is brought to you by Orvis Endorsed Outfitter Linehan Outfitting and provides current Kootenai River and fishing conditions. In May and June, several hatches will begin along the length of the river, and dry fishing will begin to heat up. Due to these changes in the current speed, seams in the river form, with pockets of slower water surrounded by fast moving currents. The Kootenai River begins in Kootenay National Park in British Columbia. As summer approaches, the water level will rise dramatically along the tailwater portions of the river. Scenic Kootenai Falls and Lake Koocanusa Reservoir are two of the many attractions along this mountain river. Access to this section of the Kootenai River is excellent. The Kootenai River, due to its sheer size, is a river that’s best float fished, particularly during the summer. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to make your visit to Northwest Montana more enjoyable. In fact, some of the biggest fish ever pulled out of a Montana river have come from the waters of the Kootenai, and there are tons of opportunities to catch prize-calibur rainbow trout here. However, despite the relatively low fishing pressure, the rainbow trout in the Kootenai River are finicky eaters. The river level is subject to sudden flow increases that affect both the fly fishing and the safety of the wade fisherman. For the very best Montana #smallstream fly fishing, Lee’s private water does not disappoint. The river then flows through a rapids called the “China Rapids”, so named because a group of Chinese gold miners attempted to float through these rapids instead of portaging, and capsized their raft which sent all their gold and all but one man to the bottom of the river. Popular and successful flies include the Wolly Bugger and a Kokanee Salmon imitation, all heavily weighted and fished down deep on a sink tip or full sinking line. Our Kootenai River fly fishing guides and trips are some of the best around. This is easier said than done, though, especially for someone who has never fished the Kootenai before. A fifth area to look for, particularly when flows are high in July, is submerged structure on the shoreline. Successful fishing requires very long, light leaders (12 – 15 foot leaders are the norm on the Kootenai River) along with excellent presentation. Below Libby Dam, the river flows for 50 miles to the Idaho border. Unlock this map and get directions to over 30,000 fishing hot spots and real-time stream flow conditions with a membership! This detailed guide deciphers the mysterious world of fly lines and explains fly line weight, fly line color, the best fly lines to use and much more. This area is similar to the upper portion of the river, but there are more rapids and less access points. Looking for more places to fish? Both fish were caught below Libby Dam. A highway (Hwy 37) runs along much of this portion of the river, and there are plenty of access points available, many of which are boat ramps (shown on map above). As a result, it is easier to locate shore and submerged structure that provide holding waters for trout. Fly Fishing the Kootenai River in Northwest Montana However, it is the area below Libby Dam that presents the best fly fishing experience, and that is the portion of the Kootenai on which we will focus this article. Fall on this section of the Kootenai River continues to offer excellent dry fly fishing. During July and lasting through August, in addition to using the dry flies described above, terrestrial patterns are successfully used, particularly if the summer is a hot and dry one. Its been a true blast hanging with Dave and his wife Tammy. About Kootenai Angler Kootenai Angler has been in business for 35 years offering guided fly fishing trips and cabin rentals on the Kootenai River in North West Montana. The true monster rainbow trout of the Kootenai River, or those fish reserved for space next to the fireplace, are typically located just downstream from Libby Dam. A second area, if somewhat more difficult to spot and very difficult to reach without a boat, are the various “seams” in the rivers current. Like all rivers, the Kootenai River generally runs fastest in the middle of the river, with slower flowing sections found closer to shore. This is the spawning period for the river’s large rainbow population, and the clear cool water will present plenty of chances. The town of Libby also has several access sites. Its our last day here at Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler. A campground at the Yaak River confluence also provides a good access site, along with a boat ramp, and makes for a handy take out point for floaters coming down from further upstream. However, for those who choose to brave the elements, the best fishing for large rainbow trout (other than the trophies found just below Libby Dam) can be had during this time. This Kootenai River fishing report is brought to you by Orvis Endorsed Outfitter Linehan Outfitting and provides current Kootenai River and fishing conditions. Also, we realize some of our fishing clients are reluctant to travel or fly with fishing gear. Spring presents good chances for streamer fishing and nymphing. Additionally, as it runs through a gorge, there is no way out once you commit to it. The Kootenai River arises up in Canada somewhere north Cranbrook, British Columbia. Since the water is fed from Libby Dam, the water also tends to remain cool. Additionally, for the angler who lacks the boat, an easier major river to access than the Kootenai River is not easily found. However, if you are hoping to catch the big one in the Kootenai, you should plan on bringing some very large streamers and sink-tip line. Prime floating conditions occur with river flows between 8000-12,000cfs. The sheer size of the river also intimidates many anglers who lack a boat. The countryside, as is typical of northwest Montana, is mountainous with thickly covered forested slopes. Fishing pressure on this section of the Kootenai River is also less than found further upstream. The Kootenai River jumped to prominence in 1997 when the state record rainbow trout was caught near Libby Dam, a monstrosity of a fish that was thirty-eight inches in length and weighed thirty-three pounds. A convenient take out point is located just above the falls. All anglers who plan to fly fish the Kootenai River, whether from shore or by boat, are advised to check the current river flows before heading out, especially in early summer when flows are high. Because the waters of the river are regulated by the dam, the flows and water levels can be erratic. It is unlike many of the more popular blue ribbon rivers in Montana, but it provides some of the best opportunities for trout fishing in the entire region. Combine that with the sheer width of the the river, and it can be difficult to fish without a boat in most portions of the river. We try to be wherever the fishing is best at the moment, and luckily for us, we have a lot of water to choose from, a key factor in making a fishing trip a success. Just below China Rapids, the Kootenai River flows over Kootenai Falls, a thirty-foot waterfall that requires a portage of all boats except for advanced paddlers in whitewater kayaks. While there are some challenges and restrictions of the river, dedicated anglers may have the opportunity to catch the big one that can hang above the fireplace in the Kootenai. Is excellent through February 28, 2021 no simple task Feet per,... 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