**All the Blackfoot Tributaries are going on Hoot Owl restrictions as of this Saturday (8/24). This includes the North Fork, Landers Fork, Belmont, Arrastra, Montoure. Additionally, FWP is going to have an emergency meeting if/when the Blackfoot hits 500 cfs. (it’s at 538 cfs this morning) If that happens soon, there is a good possibility that the river will be closed to fishing ENTIRELY until further notice.**
It’s going to be smokey up here by midday, especially on the lower reaches. It has been fishing well though but it’s been getting hit pretty hard. All things being equal, it may be time to back off the fishing on the smaller rivers for a bit. Hoppers and spruce moths are still the go-to bugs at this point although the caddis are hugely relevant towards the end of the day. Hopper/ant or p-tail dropper rigs have also been very effective, especially on the mid river sections between about County Line and River Bend. Look for the last of the tubers on the lower river with the start of school just around the corner. Very soon you’ll be able to chase those huge lower river browns in peace once again! Just an FYI, the Blue Mountain trailheads and McClay Flats are closed.
1/2 OFF Fridays. 50% Off your 1st dozen nymphs and dries! Every Friday – Every Week
HATCHES: caddis, PMDs, yellow sallies, hoppers and spruce moths – terrestrials in general
PATTERNS: golden stones in sizes 12 to 14. Attractor stuff in a size 8 or 10, elk hair or other caddis in a 12 or 14. Batman/ p-tail or red San Juan nymph rigs.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: There are no hoot owl restrictions currently in place for the Blackfoot