This Kootenai River Montana fishing report is being brought to you by Orvis Endorsed Linehan Outfitting.  This report will be updated weekly to provide current conditions, weather, hatches, patterns, and flows to our local waters and across the state.

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.

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,

Unfortunately there's not much to be had here on the Kootenai this week.  Flows from Libby Dam will be increasing dramatically and fluctuating throughout the week.  What does that mean?  Basically the river isn't very user friendly or particularly fishable under these conditions.  But if you're game, you may find a couple hours during the day when flows have stabilized to give it a go.

On the weather front, expect cloudy days and cold temperatures.  Honestly, I'd stick with tying flies instead of fishing right now.

Water temperatures are still good and hovering around 48 degrees.  With temperatures in that range trout will actively feed during the day.

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.  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. 

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