The Blackfoot River is more than just a waterway; it is a Montana fly fishing legend. Famously featured in Norman Maclean’s novella, A River Runs Through It, this stream offers a classic Western experience. Anglers travel globally to experience its incredible dry fly opportunities and beautiful scenery.
The Big Blackfoot River is a stronghold for native species like Westslope Cutthroat Trout and Bull Trout. It also boasts healthy populations of Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. In fact, this river is one of the few places where you have a legitimate chance at achieving a “Grand Slam” of four different trout species in one day.
This guide provides expert knowledge on hatches, techniques, and regulations. Read on to prepare for your world-class Blackfoot River fly fishing trip.
Exploring the Big Blackfoot River’s Unique Fly Fishing Characteristics
A Stronghold for Native and Wild Trout
The Blackfoot River supports a valuable sport fishery for a variety of trout species. Native fish in the river include Bull Trout and Westslope Cutthroat Trout. Non-native species present include Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout.
Native trout recovery efforts have seen success in the Blackfoot basin. Westslope Cutthroat Trout populations have increased significantly over the last 30 years. This impressive growth is due largely to restrictive fishing regulations and extensive restoration actions.
Geology and Structure for Trophy Blackfoot River Trout
The Blackfoot River fly fishing experience is defined by its dramatic geology. The river flows wide, deep, and swiftly, often making wading difficult during high flows. The river’s valley and canyon were shaped by the cataclysmic Missoula Floods.
This geological history created deep emerald pools and boulder-strewn pocket water. This structure provides ideal holding water for large, predatory trout. Anglers have the possibility of catching large Brown or Rainbow Trout over 25 inches. Massive Bull Trout over 30 inches are also a potential, although they cannot be intentionally targeted.
Conservation and Management of the Blackfoot River Fishery
The Blackfoot River is recognized as one of Montana’s twelve esteemed “Blue Ribbon” rivers. The drainage is managed as a wild trout fishery, relying solely on natural reproduction.
Decades of dedicated conservation efforts have helped restore the river. Work continues, particularly concerning habitat issues from historic mining. The Upper Blackfoot Mining Complex area is contaminated by elevated metal concentrations. This contamination resulted from the 1975 failure of the Mike Horse tailing dam in the headwaters area.
Timing Your Blackfoot River Fly Fishing Trip: Hatches and Optimal Flows
The Legendary Blackfoot River Salmonfly Hatch (June)
June signals the arrival of the most anticipated time for Blackfoot River fly fishing: the giant Salmonfly hatch. This emergence creates a frenzy among fish and anglers alike. The Blackfoot boasts one of the most prolific and long-lasting Salmonfly hatches in the West. It generally starts around the second week of June and can last beyond the Fourth of July most years.
During this period, use large, high-floating foam flies, such as the Super Gee or Damien’s SUV Salmon Fly. A heavier rod, like a 6 or 7 weight, is recommended to apply pressure and handle the fish in the strong current.
Consistent Summer Blackfoot River Hatches (July – August)
As the Salmonflies wane, the Golden Stones become the “premiere hatch” due to their consistency. The Golden Stone hatch often extends well into July. Other key hatches include Green Drakes, Pale Morning Duns (PMDs), and Caddis.
In August, the unique Spruce Moth hatch occurs, causing large Blackfoot trout to recklessly eat terrestrials. This hatch can produce some of the finest dry fly fishing of the season. Using attractor patterns like Chernobyls, hoppers, and stimulators is highly effective during late summer.
Fall Fishing on the Blackfoot (September – November)
Fall is prime time for big fish on the Blackfoot River. As water temperatures drop, wild trout respond by feeding aggressively before winter. Hatches include Mahoganies, Blue-winged Olives (BWO’s), and October Caddis.
Streamer fishing is a crucial tactic for this river in the fall, appealing to advanced anglers. The Blackfoot is typically the first Missoula-area river to slow down as winter approaches due to its higher elevation headwaters.
Mastering Techniques for Successful Blackfoot River Fly Fishing
Essential Dry Fly and Nymphing Tactics
This river is famous for its outstanding dry fly action. Trout are often more confident taking large dry flies when the light is off the water, such as during the dawn patrol. The hopper-dropper approach is frequently the most productive method on the Blackfoot.
The Blackfoot is characterized by crashing, roiling water, meaning deep nymphing is vital. You must fish heavy and deep to reach trout holding behind large boulders and rock walls. Recommended heavy nymph patterns include Pat’s Rubberlegs, TJ Hookers, and Zirdles. You may need to run your rig 6 to 8 feet deep in higher water conditions.
Targeting Trophies with Streamers and Gear Recommendations
Streamer fishing on the Blackfoot is essential for targeting true trophies. The deep pockets and steep banks provide perfect ambush habitat for predatory trout. Use sink tips and large patterns like the Sparkle Minnow or Kreelex to get deep in the swift riffles.
A standard 9-foot, 5-weight or 6-weight rod is sufficient for most dry fly and nymph fishing situations. For dedicated streamer fishing, a 9-foot, 7-weight rod and a type 6 sink tip fly line are recommended.
| Gear Type | Recommended Rod Weight | Primary Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Trout Rod | 9′ 5-weight or 6-weight | Dry flies, attractor patterns, nymphing |
| Streamer Rod | 9′ 7-weight | Throwing large streamers and sink tips |
| Leaders/Tippet | 7.5′ or 9′ in 2X to 5X | 3X for large stoneflies/hoppers; 5X for small mayflies |
Blackfoot River Sections, Access, and Responsible Use
Float fishing is the most common and effective way to experience Blackfoot River fly fishing. The river’s depth and speed often make wade fishing impractical.
The Upper 12 Miles, known as the Box Canyon, is famous for stunning scenery. This section holds the biggest density of the largest trout in the system (browns, rainbows, and cutthroats). This stretch is mostly float-only due to steep, vertical canyon walls and limited public access. Rowing the Blackfoot can be challenging in early to mid-July due to high flows and exposed rocks.
The Blackfoot River, from Cedar Meadow FAS west of Helmville to the Clark Fork River confluence, is legally classified as a Class I river for public access.
Key Regulatory Requirements for Blackfoot River Fly Fishing
Montana FWP regulations govern fishing to ensure fish health. Anglers 16 and older must possess a valid Montana Fishing License, a Conservation License, and an AIS Prevention Pass.
The mainstem Blackfoot River and most tributaries require catch-and-release regulations for cutthroat trout during the general season. The general season runs from the third Saturday in May through November 30. Intentional angling for Bull Trout is unlawful in most waters, including the Blackfoot River, as it is a protected species. FWP manages the Blackfoot River and its tributaries as a conservation area for Bull Trout.
Drought Conditions and Angler Conservation
Hot, dry summers frequently cause low flows and warm water temperatures in Montana streams. These conditions put significant stress on native trout populations. Montana FWP may announce short-term emergency fishing restrictions or closures in response to drought. These might include “Hoot-owl” restrictions, which prohibit fishing from 2 PM until midnight.
Anglers play an important role in protecting fisheries during drought by adopting conservation measures. It is critical to follow these best practices:
| Conservation Best Practice | Action to Take | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Hook Type | Use single, barbless hooks. | Easier and quicker removal; reduces release time. |
| Terminal Tackle | Use artificial lures instead of bait. | Reduces deep hooking and subsequent mortality. |
| Handling | Land the fish quickly and keep it in the water. | Avoids playing the fish to total exhaustion; reduces stress. |
| Release | Gently hold the fish upright in the current until equilibrium is gained. | Gives the fish the best chance for survival. |
Experience World-Class Blackfoot River Fly Fishing
Final Words on Montana Fly Fishing Excellence
The Blackfoot River remains legendary for its dramatic structure, history, and superb fishing. Its confluence with the North Fork creates a powerful, beautiful fishery. The combination of grandiose water and the chance at a true trophy makes this river a bucket list destination. Float the Blackfoot to experience Montana fly fishing at its absolute finest.
Ready to fish the Blackfoot River? Find expert Montana fly fishing guides and book your guided Blackfoot River fishing trip!
Blackfoot River Fly Fishing FAQs
What are the primary trout species targeted by anglers on the Blackfoot River?
The Blackfoot River supports healthy populations of Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout. It is also a critical habitat and stronghold for the native Westslope Cutthroat Trout and the protected Bull Trout. The ultimate goal for many is the possibility of achieving a “Grand Slam” by catching all four species in one day.
When is the best time for dry fly fishing on the Blackfoot River?
The peak dry fly season is generally Summer (June–August), coinciding with the phenomenal Salmonfly and Golden Stone hatches. During mid-summer, the Blackfoot River offers excellent dry fly action using attractor/dropper rigs. The sporadic Spruce Moth hatch in August can also lead to excellent dry fly fishing.
Are there specific fishing regulations or closures to be aware of when fishing the Blackfoot River in Montana?
Yes. The Blackfoot River and its tributaries require catch-and-release for Cutthroat Trout during the general season. Intentional angling for Bull Trout is unlawful throughout the Blackfoot River system. Furthermore, due to hot, dry conditions and low flows, FWP may implement emergency restrictions, such as “Hoot-owl” closures (prohibiting fishing from 2 PM to midnight) to protect fish health.
Is the Blackfoot River suitable for float fishing or wade fishing?
Float fishing is the most common and effective method for Blackfoot River fly fishing. The river is wide, deep, and swift, making wading difficult, especially during high flows. Float fishing is essential in the vertical walls of the Box Canyon. Wading opportunities improve in the upper reaches of the river near Lincoln when the water drops in late summer.
Are glass containers allowed in the Blackfoot River Recreation Corridor?
No, glass containers are explicitly prohibited on the Blackfoot River, within the Blackfoot Recreation Corridor, and at public access sites, in part due to public safety concerns regarding litter.
