KOOTENAI RIVER MONTANA FISHING REPORT 3-11-2025

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.

In-flow from Lake Koocanusa:  approximately 4000cfs

Flows from Libby Dam:

Hatches:  midge, baetis

Water temperature at stilling basin below Libby Dam: approximately 36 degrees

patterns:  zebra midge, Uke's brown perdigon, wire worm, perdigons, big streamers in white, black and red

Great news!  It looks like daytime temps are finally warming up a bit and will be consistently above freezing for the first time since November.  It's been a real winter up here.  Additionally, flows from Libby Dam will be low through March and April.  What does this mean?  It means the pre-funoff season and good fishing opportunities on the Kootenai River.

Water temps are very cold, fish are lethargic, and that means no dry fly fishing at all.  Water temps will have to warm up considerably before we see any bugs so baetis and March browns are still a month away at least.  

Nymphing can be good under these conditions.  Get the flies down.  Bump them in the nose and you may get lucky.

Streamer fishing is best bet if you're looking for one solid fish.  Again, get the fly down.  Fish it slowly and thump and pulse like it's a wounded minnow.  If you get a pull, stop it.  Let it sink.  Then pulse it again.

This time of year fish will be found in slower currents, deep holes, drop-offs, and soft runs.  Skip fast water for the most part.  Concentrate efforts on walking speed or slower

 The Boston Red Sox are looking sharp through spring training.  Trevor Story is healthy for the first time since July of last year and hitting the ball well.  Devers could be the DH this season especially if Bregman gets the third base position.  Lots going on in Florida right now.  Opening day right around the corner.  Go Sox!

Give a call anytime if you need more Kootenai River details or information on any 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. The new Orvis Helios rods are here and you have to cast one to believe!  https://linehan-outfitting.myshopify.com/