Blackfoot River
MarginalMontana
Current Conditions
The Blackfoot River is running at 3,660 CFS — marginal conditions. Expect off-color water. Stick to the edges and fish streamers or heavy nymph rigs.
Last updated: May 21, 2026, 10:30 PM from USGS gauge 12340000 (Blackfoot River near Bonner)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 800–1500 CFS | Fishable to 3000 CFS | Marginal to 5000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is cool — ideal for trout activity. Fish will be feeding actively throughout the day.
About the Blackfoot River
Norman Maclean's home water and the setting of "A River Runs Through It." The Blackfoot is a beautiful freestone river flowing through timbered canyons east of Missoula. A conservation success story, the river has rebounded dramatically.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl #6 | ||||||||||||
Golden Stonefly Stimulator #8 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
Active Hatches — May
Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis #14-16
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18
River Sections
Clearwater Junction to Bonner
wade/float access3,660 CFS
The most popular stretch with excellent access. Mix of riffles, runs, and pools through scenic canyon.
Guides on the Blackfoot River(40)
These fishing guides list the Blackfoot River as one of their home waters.
Blackfeet Outfitters
Great Falls, Montana
Bob Marshall Wilderness Outfitters
Montana
Cross Currents Fly Shop & Outfitters
Craig, Montana
Fish Missoula
Missoula, Montana
Ford Creek Guest Ranch
Augusta, Montana
Headhunters Fly Shop / Get the Drift Outfitters
Cascade, Montana
Joe Cantrell Outfitting
St. Regis, Montana
Johnsrud Outfitters
Kalispell, Montana
K Lazy 3 Outfitters
Fallon, Montana
Latitudes Outfitting
Hamilton, Montana
Linehan Outfitting
Troy, Montana
Living Water Guide Service
East Helena, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Blackfoot River?+
The Blackfoot River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Blackfoot River in May?+
In May, the Blackfoot River sees Caddis, Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include Elk Hair Caddis #14-16, BWO Parachute #18. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Blackfoot River?+
Avonture lists 40 fishing guides who operate on the Blackfoot River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Blackfoot River?+
The Blackfoot River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations (waterdata.usgs.gov). Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 800–1500 CFS.
What fish species are in the Blackfoot River?+
The Blackfoot River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds