Flows from Libby Dam:  For the next couple weeks flows from Libby Dam will be fluctuating from approximately 10,000 cfs to 20,000 cfs.

Water temperature at Libby Dam: 42 degrees

Hatches: midge, baetis

patterns:  zebra midge, parachute Adams,  soft SJ worm, bh pheasant tail, bh rubber legged stonefly, big streamers in white, pink and olive, circus peanut, black conehead buggers, perdigons, Uke's Pressure Drop,

Happy New Year! 

Well, we've finally warmed up and it appears the -30 degree temperatures of over. For now.  Heck, it's only the beginning of the January and at least here in Kootenai River country we have the biggest snowpack to date than we've seen in many,  many years.  Provided we continue to get normal precipitation through January, February and March, it looks like water conditions will be terrific this coming season. 

Kootenai River flows will continue to fluctuate through most of the winter.  There is some fishing to be had since daytime temperatures are now normal, but all in all when flows are fluctuating fishing can be kind of off.  Libby Dam and The Army Corps of Engineers are great at moving water during early morning and at night so there are periods during the day when there is some fishing to be had.  Basically, any flows under 15,000 offer decent opportunities this time of year especially in afternoons.

Look for fish in deeper runs, buckets, and in cover.  They are moving this time of year and will be spending less time in riffles due to less insect activity. 

Don't expect much in the way of dry fly fishing this time of year here on the Kootenai River.  If you game for being out there stick with indicator nymphing.  Look for fish in slower runs, deep pools, and boulder gardens and other cover.

 fStreamer fishing is also productive this time of year.  Big fish are on the prowl as they bulk up for winter.  Be patient, get flies down and ten to twenty foot depth charge sinking tips are best for these flows.  Look for bigger fish in deep pools and let your flies swing all the way through the run and pulse the tip of the rod from time to time as well. 

We surely hope this Kootenai River fishing report has been helpful.  Happy holidays everyone and know we appreciate all of you who have supported us through these many years.

Give a call anytime if you need more Kootenai River details or information on any of our hunting or fishing adventures.  And please check out our e-commerce site for all Linehan Outfitting branded soft wear and hats and all Orvis gear as well. https//linehan-outfitting.myshopify.com