East Fork of the Bitterroot River Fishing Report
Date: March 21, 2025
Current Conditions:
The East Fork is running cold and clear, with steady flows. The river is still in pre-runoff mode, but expect rising water levels as afternoon temperatures climb. Fish are holding in slower, deeper water, especially in the morning before things warm up. The afternoons have been producing the best action, with slight bumps in water temps bringing fish into feeding lanes.
Hatches & Flies:
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Midges & Blue-Winged Olives – Midges are active in the mornings, and BWOs have been coming off well on cloudy afternoons.
- Patterns: Griffith’s Gnat (#18-22), BWO Comparadun (#18-20), Sparkle Dun BWO (#18-20)
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Early Skwala Sightings – A few Skwalas are starting to show, and the fish are beginning to take notice. The hatch isn’t full-on yet, but keep an eye on sunny afternoons for increasing dry-fly opportunities.
- Patterns: Olive Chubby Chernobyl (#10-12), Rogue Skwala (#10-12), Foam Stone (#10-12)
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Nymphing & Streamers – A two-fly nymph rig with a stonefly and smaller mayfly nymph has been producing steady fish. Streamers are working best on overcast days or when fished low and slow.
- Patterns: Pat’s Rubber Legs (#8-10), Pheasant Tail (#14-18), Mini Dungeons & Sculpzillas (olive/black)
Best Tactics:
- Dry-Dropper Approach – Try a Skwala dry with a small mayfly or midge nymph underneath.
- Euro & Indicator Nymphing – Focus on deeper pools and seams where fish are still holding low.
- Slow-Strip Streamer Game – With cool water, fish aren’t chasing aggressively yet—slow, methodical retrieves will get the best results.
Outlook:
Skwala season is right around the corner, and with the river running clear, now is a great time to get out before the main hatch starts bringing more anglers to the water. Expect increasing dry-fly opportunities in the coming weeks.
Book a Trip!
Want to get in on pre-runoff fishing before the rivers blow out? Freestone Fly Shop offers guided trips on the East Fork and the rest of the Bitterroot. Contact us today to lock in a prime spring date!
Tight lines!
— Jeff Gray, Outfitter/Owner, Freestone Fly Shop
