Blue skies, 50 degree days and it’s spring and the fishing is on!  Discharge from Libby Dam is presently 4000cfs and water temps at Libby Dam are 40degrees.  In the coming days expect March brown hatch to start increasing especially during mid-day when water temps are warmest.  Also, look for blue winged olives during overcast days.  Fish are rising in softer water and very catchable this time of year on dry flies.  Nymphing is also very productive in boulder gardens and especially in the China Rapids section of the river between Libby and the Kootenai Falls.  Streamers will bring bigger fish and should be fished slowly since water is still relatively cold and fish are less inclined to chase until water warms up a bit.

If you’re wading, be careful if you’re in the gravel.  Rainbows will be spawning and it’s best not to walk all over redds.  Redds are easily seen.  Gravel will appear very clean and section will be scooped out and humped downstream.  Usually redds are approximately 10′x10′.

Good luck out there!!!

It’s officially spring and this is lining up to be one of the all time great spring seasons here on the Kootenai.  We had a mild winter and it’s good to be back on the water.  It’s already happening folks and conditions are presently excellent.  Dishcarge from Libby Dam is currently 4000 cfs.  The river is clear and water temps are hovering around 40 degrees.  What does that mean?  Bugs!  Midge hatches have been increasing and fish are on top.  In the coming days start looking for increased olive activity as well as March browns.  Look for rising fish in softer water, off edges and boulder gardens.  Take your time and make a good cast.  Rising fish are very catchable this time of year.  Nymphing has been great.  Beadhead hares ears, pheasant tails, copper johns, and zebra midge in sizes 12-18 have been pulling fish.  Rainbows are kind of spread out and have likely started spawning.  Warmer days will bring excellent fishing.  Get out there and get your feet wet!