Nothing makes us happier than sharing the joy of fly fishing with beginners or experts on one of Montana’s least-fished rivers. The river is just so large and fast, that often by the time you recognize a hole you have little or hope of rowing over to fish it in time. 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. Fly Fishing We’ve been providing guided fly fishing Montana trips on the beautiful Kootenai River since 1982. There are several feeder rivers which flow into this portion, and they provide great opportunities as fish seek relief from fast currents. With its peak flows being during the summer, fly fishing tactics are somewhat different than found on other Montana rivers. 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. Small flies on light tackle continues to be the rule when dry fly fishing during this time, with popular imitations being the trusted Parachute Adams, along with the Sparkle Dun and Blue Quill (sizes ranging from18-24). Additionally, as it runs through a gorge, there is no way out once you commit to it. 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. 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. 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. It is one of the uppermost major tributaries of the Columbia River, which is the largest North American river that empties into the Pacific Ocean. More info about inflatable fishing kayaks. 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. Fishing is allowed at all hours during open fishing seasons unless otherwise specified in District Exceptions to Standard Regulations. The Libby Dam and beyond that, down stream is where you will see that particular river. 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). 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. Access is more difficult on this section of the Kootenai River, as it flows primarily through private property. It’s secluded and scenic with a series of riffles, pools and meanders. This rapid is long and, depending on river flows, can provide a rough ride for inexperienced floaters or parties in canoes. Due to the low elevation the river flows through, this part of Montana can be surprisingly warm during the summer months—so be prepared for some potentially warm days during any heat waves that happen to hit Montana. Start times varying as the season progresses. Kootenai River Isolated in the northwest corner of Montana the Kootenai River lies off the beaten path of the more traveled, popular “big name” rivers of Montana. The scenery is nice and the current is fast, especially during high water. As the river moves past the town of Libby, another 33-mile stretch can present some good fishing. 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. The rivers characteristics also make wade fishing difficult. Hopper imitations (sizes 4-8) are very effective when fished in the flooded shoreline vegetation found on the Kootenai River in July. Additionally, its sheer size makes finding prime fishing areas a challenge, especially for anglers lacking a boat. Traditional dry fishing techniques can be useful in catching rainbows in high quantity during summer. A few to check out are listed below. 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. There are a number of area fly shops and on-line retailers that publish Kootenai River fishing reports. The trout will not be impressed by lots of movement or awful presentations. Additionally, many of these braids and channels are not nearly as deep as out in the main current. The area past the falls and before the Idaho border is the lowest elevation in all of Montana, and this can present some unique opportunities and surprisingly warm weather. It may not be the typical blue sky experience of Montana fishing, but this river may have even more to offer anglers who are up for the challenge. 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. 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. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to make your visit to Northwest Montana more enjoyable. The popular Wolly Bugger, in sizes ranging from 4 – 2/0, is an excellent fly to use at this time. The Kootenai River begins in Kootenay National Park in British Columbia. Guests have private access to miles of … Other than these changes in the character of the river, fishing between Libby and Kootenai Falls is not much different than found further upstream. The Kootenai River is a daunting river for fly fishing. The Kootenai River continues to provide solid mayfly hatches through the fall. The Kootenai River’s canyon section flows between Montana’s Libby Dam and Bonners Ferry. Bridge to Kootenai Falls on the Kootenai River. Due to the whitewater, don’t expect to do much fishing while floating through the gorge. Great fishing usually continues well into the end of October. Related Article – Kootenai River Photographs. The Kootenai River is Montana’s largest tailwater fishery with over half its drainage located in British Columbia and is also a major tributary of the Columbia River. Fishing pressure on this section of the Kootenai River is also less than found further upstream. A third area to look for are any noticeable deep pools. Visit our DIY Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Montana. This section of the Kootenai River travels for seventeen miles. Last Day Fly Fishing the Kootenai River 20 April, 2020 Categories: Kootenai Angler. While most of the Kootenai River is open year round with quality fly fishing beginning as early as April - May. 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 first dry fly fishing of the year begins in May, with the best dry fly fishing occurring during the summer. 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. 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 last road trip for the year found us fly fishing the Kootenai, Bitterroot and Clark Fork Rivers. 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. While there are some opportunities for wading along the length of the river, fishing from the boat will provide the most success in the Kootenai. Successful fishing can begin on the Kootenai River as early as March for those willing to tolerate the elements. kootenai-river-montana-fly-fishing-waters. The Kootenai River Trail along the Montana section of the river, about 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) long, follows the river from Libby to Kootenai Falls and the well known Swinging Bridge across the Kootenai. Prime floating conditions occur with river flows between 8000-12,000cfs. Beyond this point, the river makes its way to the 30-foot waterfalls of Kootenai Falls. Drifting this section in a boat will usually be the safest and most effective method, especially during the summer. 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. Any angler who values quality over quantity, and doesn’t mind hefting very large streamers on stout tackle hour after unproductive hour, can score huge on the Kootenai River when chasing trophy sized rainbow trout. Due to the constant fluctuation in river levels and the effect it has on rapids, it is highly recommended to scout the rapid before running it. Both fish were caught below Libby Dam. 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. Flies that are floated down the river right along the seams edge should successfully draw up the rainbows. The countryside, as is typical of northwest Montana, is mountainous with thickly covered forested slopes. Kootenai Angler is a fully licensed and insured fishing outfitter. 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 best fishing in the Kootenai will begin just below Libby Dam. Its been a true blast hanging with Dave and his wife Tammy. The Kootenai River is considered a blue-ribbon trout fising river. A stealthy approach to these trout, though, will be required, as they can be quite skittish in the shallow water along the shoreline. The Kootenai River - at 4k. Fly fishing the Kootenai River can be difficult. Kayaker Going over Kootenai Falls on the Kootenai River in Montana. The Kootenai River, due to its sheer size, is a river that’s best float fished, particularly during the summer. Scenic Kootenai Falls and Lake Koocanusa Reservoir are two of the many attractions along this mountain river. Lots of patience. This Kootenai River fishing report is brought to you by Orvis Endorsed Outfitter Linehan Outfitting and provides current Kootenai River and fishing conditions. This is easier said than done, though, especially for someone who has never fished the Kootenai before. Below the falls, the Kootenai River runs through two miles of moderate whitewater, the severity of which depends on the river levels. Estimates put trout populations on the Kootenai River between 2000 – 3000 per mile. 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. The Kootenai River is so big, so broad, so deep and fast flowing that deciding where to start is no simple task. The Kootenai River, due to its sheer size, is a river that’s best float fished, particularly during the summer. A fine boat ramp is found just downstream from Libby Dam, and several other boat ramps are also found between the dam and the town of Libby. The rivers characteristics also make wade fishing difficult. Like all rivers, the Kootenai River generally runs fastest in the middle of the river, with slower flowing sections found closer to shore. Access to this section of the Kootenai River is excellent. A floater contemplating running the gorge should expect to encounter at least 3-4 class IV rapids and 2-4 class III rapids. For the first twenty-five miles below the dam, only small riffles and waves exist. Smaller flies are also more effective in catching the larger rainbows than then large, bushy flies commonly used on other Montana rivers. Spring presents good chances for streamer fishing and nymphing. Ideal fishing raft for 1-2 anglers. The Kootenai River flows through Libby and Troy and offers Blue Ribbon trout fishing. 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. It will be updated frequently or as conditions change. The Kootenai River is a daunting river for fly fishing. Kootenai River Flow: 7,000 Cubic Feet per second, 10-12 foot visibility, 57 degrees. As a result, it is easier to locate shore and submerged structure that provide holding waters for trout. Fly fishing in Montana is an experience not to be forgotten. Kootenai River is a tailwater and you have to watch the flow, especially if you wade it. Welcome to Dave Blackburn's Kootenai Angler Established in 1982, Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler has been the leading outfitter on the Kootenai River for more than 35 years. Gingerly plopping a dry fly into one of these slow water stretches is an excellent way to catch a large rainbow. Fly Fishing the Kootenai River in Northwest Montana. Rainbow trout up to 33 pounds have been taken on the river. Two miles below the rapid, the Kootenai River goes over Kootenai Falls and then enters a gorge. From the class V+ area of Kootenai Falls to easy day floats along the lazy river. The odds of catching these fish on a dainty dry fly, however, are very slim. Just be careful where you hop. Just remember that to catch these monster trout requires patience. Just below the falls, the river flows through a gorge that has extensive whitewater sections. Providing a truly uncrowded setting the Kootenai River maintains a high quality trout fishery. Kootenai River in Northwest Montana as it braids around an island. It can also be helpful to pay attention to seams in the middle of the river that provide pockets of slower moving water. A typical day guided fly fishing is at least 8 hours covering 6 to 10 miles of river or stream. Kootenai came down to summer flows on the 20th of July and has been treating everybody very nice. The town of Libby also has several access sites. Lake Koocanusa contains trout as well as kokanee salmon. For the angler who wants to increase the chances of catching a larger rainbow trout and who is skilled at nymph fishing, popular and effective patterns include the Hare’s Ear Beadhead nymph and the Prince nymph, in sizes 16-20. This section, though, also has some riffles and rocks which provide some nice habitat for the trout. Except for two sections, floating the Kootenai River is not difficult, and offers a pleasant float. 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. By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Linehan Outfitting Company, 482 Upper Ford Road, Troy, MT, 59935, fishmontana.com. We invite you to come have fun on the water with us in … Below Libby Dam, the river flows for 50 miles to the Idaho border. Copyright 2002 - 2020 Big Sky Fishing.Com. Fly-fishing is far more than our profession, it’s our way of life. Also, we realize some of our fishing clients are reluctant to travel or fly with fishing gear. When water levels are high, there will also be some good opportunities in the deep pools and submerged vegetation where fish will gather. If you are looking for a new and exciting fishing experience, the Kootenai River in western Montana could be a breath of fresh air. More info about inflatable fishing rafts. 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. During July the Kootenai River usually runs very high, flooding much of the shoreline vegetation, often to a depth of several feet. A fourth area to concentrate on is around the various braids and channels on the Kootenai River, particularly on the tail water section downstream from the islands. Streamer and nymph patterns, weighted on a sink tip line, are used for this early spring fishing, bouncing them right along the bottom. Don’t pull up to the Kootenai River expecting to take home several large rainbow trout every day when chasing these trophy fish. A convenient take out point is located just above the falls. Additionally, the China Rapids, just upstream from Kootenai Falls, provides excellent fishing in the deep holes found among the rocks and boulders. Water from Libby Dam can change the flow in a heart beat. Because the waters of the river are regulated by the dam, the flows and water levels can be erratic. Check out our interactive map of over 30,000 of the best places to fly fish in the US. For larger nymphs and streamers a 9-foot 6-wt with a sink tip fly line makes life easier. Fishing regulations valid March 1, 2020 through February 28, 2021. It will be updated frequently or as conditions change. This area is similar to the upper portion of the river, but there are more rapids and less access points. Learn more about these dedicated fishing rafts. A 9-foot 5-wt fly rod with floating line is perfect for fishing dry flies and small nymphs on the Kootenai River. Linehan Outfitting Company is the best local source for all information surrounding the Kootenai River. 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. One section known as China Rapids presents some excellent fishing opportunities in the deep pools found around the many rocks and riffles here. To fish in Montana, most anglers need two licenses: a Conservation License and a Fishing License. Due to these changes in the current speed, seams in the river form, with pockets of slower water surrounded by fast moving currents. 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. The true monster fish, for those with the patience to chase them, are typically found within a mile or two downstream from Libby Dam. Water temps have risen to … The Kootenai River is so big, so broad, so deep and fast flowing that deciding where to start is no simple task. There are a number of areas to concentrate on when fly fishing the Kootenai River. Our goal is to ensure that your experience is exceptional. 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. Inflatable fishing rafts are portable, relatively inexpensive and excellent boats for fly fishing in Montana. Since the water is fed from Libby Dam, the water also tends to remain cool. This Kootenai River fishing report is brought to you by Orvis Endorsed Outfitter Linehan Outfitting and provides current Kootenai River and fishing conditions. Current fly fishing reports and conditions for Kootenai River in Montana! One area is around the many feeder rivers and streams of the Kootenai 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. It will be updated frequently or as conditions change. A tapered 9-foot leader, with tippet size 3X to 6X to match the flies you are throwing, is pretty standard. From novice to advanced our team of experienced guides will work with you to ensure you and your family have the very best experience. If we can be of assistance in any way to make your stay more enjoyable, please don’t to hesitate to let us know. The Kootenai River begins in British Columbia and flows through northwest Montana and Libby. Below the gorge, the Kootenai River continues on towards Idaho, with only a few riffles and small waves to deal with, and should not pose any problems for a floater of any skill level. Hatches in early summer mean that caddis flies are a must for this time of year. The Kootenai River trout fishery begins below Libby Dam and stretches approximately 40 miles to the Idaho border. The best fishing on this section is found above Kootenai Falls. 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 trick, of course, is catching them on this massive and somewhat intimidating river. Or enjoy your time on one of the many pristine lakes in the area, it's all here. In 1973, the Libby Dam was built, forming Lake Koocanusa and which extends back into Canada. The Kootenai River is an interesting river for fly fishing. This is the spawning period for the river’s large rainbow population, and the clear cool water will present plenty of chances. The river level is subject to sudden flow increases that affect both the fly fishing and the safety of the wade fisherman. Very tough, portable and easy to setup. Below Libby Dam, even at low flows, the Kootenai River is wide and has a very quick current. Recent fishing regulations changes should help in getting fish populations and sizes up, as all rainbow trout between 13-18 inches must be released. 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. Rafters and Kayakers can explore 100's of miles of rivers and streams. 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. For any angler who will be fishing the Kootenai River for the first time, concentrating their efforts around these braids and channels (although a boat will generally be needed to float down to them), will be time well spent. We are a close-knit, family-run business and pride ourselves on showing our guests unforgettable experiences on and off the river. The Kootenai River, due to its location in the far northwest corner of Montana, does not receive excessive amounts of fishing pressure. But until recently, it lacked nutrients to produce many trout and grow them larger. The Kootenai is almost always ready to go by July. The Kootenai River, as Libby Dam regulates it, flows erratically. Linehan Outfitting Company is the best local source for all information surrounding the Kootenai River. 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. Unlock this map and get directions to over 30,000 fishing hot spots and real-time stream flow conditions with a membership! We fish the Kootenai and small streams from drift boats and rafts to give us access to those places that would other wise be inaccessible on foot. Looking for more places to fish? 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. This section of the Kootenai River runs for thirty-three miles. The Kootenai River holds the state of Montana's rainbow trout record as well as its whitefish record. 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. Instead, massive streamers—up to five inches long—are the flies of choice when chasing these trophy trout. 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Of northwest Montana as it flows primarily through private property guides will with... Far northwest corner of Montana, the fishing in the Kootenai is almost always ready to go by July are! This area is similar to the upper portion of the Kootenai River is not difficult, rainbows...

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