Spring fishing is on and the first and one of the best hatches of the year is happening now. The skwala stoneflies started hatching on the Bitterroot in the last couple weeks and the trout have been waiting for them. This is arguably the best time of year to fish here in western Montana, as we see the best combination of numbers and size of fish during this Springtime feeding window. It’s also our favorite time to target and catch large brown trout on dry flies, which become much more elusive and nocturnal later in the Summer months.
The trout have been feeding on the surface of the Bitterroot river for the last 12 days or so, with plenty of adult skwalas hatching everyday. We’re seeing a lot of fish moving into those classic Spring feeding lanes looking for dries. Long, patient drifts in the medium speed water is what gets the big eats this time of year. Look for skwalas to continue strong throughout April, and mayflies will soon enter the mix as well. March browns, gray drakes, and baetis will all be out soon. The Clark Fork will begin to come alive in the next couple weeks with skwalas and mayflies as well. April on the Clark Fork is one of our favorite fishing windows of the year! Call us today for available dates during this great Spring fishing window.
Remember, the best guides fill up fast, many months ahead of time. Call Montana Guiding Company Outfitter Trevor Anderson at 406-239-7959 to make a reservation. We look forward to seeing you on the water this year!
-Trevor Anderson
Owner/Outfitter, Montana Guiding Company