Montana in October

[Dave G]

A buddy and I are planning a week or so of fishing in Montana. We may fish some of the biggies (Clark Fork, Blackfoot, Big Hole, etc.) but are more interested in smaller, more initiate streams. We'll probably take my raft, but wading options are just as welcome.

Not asking for hotspotting, but a list of streams (or towns) we should consider would be most welcome!

 

[Mike Cline]

Don’t plan on the Big Hole as it is now closed for the season due to low water. Everywhere else is in play but water is seasonably low on almost all rivers.

Current Waterbody Restrictions | Montana FWP

Current restrictions and closures, including hoot-owl

fwp.mt.gov

USGS Current Conditions for Montana_ Streamflow

 

[SurfnFish]

apparently the Blackfoot not the best choice either...

https://www.npr.org/2024/08/31/g-s1-19833/fishing-angling-trout-montana-water-climate-change-blackfoot-river

 

[RCF]

I looked at a lot of river flow gauges for Montana river flows in @Mike Cline 's post. Flows are definitely lower than last year. Also looks like a long-term forecast is drier than normal times. The article about the Blackfoot is also concerning. Discouraging for sure (if one believes those long range forecasts). I luv Montana and fishing late fall and have done it for decades, too.

One may want to 'play it by ear' and check flows when time is closer. I would also check flows in Idaho, specifically the Rocky Mountain Fly Fish Highway (US 20) as an alternative...