Kootenai River
The Kootenai RIver actually originates in Kootenai National Park in British Columbia, Canada and flows nearly 485 miles through Montana and northern Idaho and then back into Canada. Eventually this mighty river joins the Columbia River.
As the second largest tributary to the Columbia River, the Kootenai River has a reputation for intimidating even the most skilled anglers. Its sheer size, deep waters, and raging rapids make wading difficult except during extremely low flows. To get any bites, you'll have to float fish.
The Libby Dam also provides obstacles for the eager angler by releasing erratic flows. Before you plan to fish the Kootenai River, it is best to check the status of the water flows.
Brave anglers will be rewarded as the Kootenai River is home to a variety of species and is known for its large fish. You'll find westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, Kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, whitefish, and white sturgeon. In 1997 a record size rainbow trout was caught near Libby Dam. The trout weighed 33 pounds and was 38 inches long. A record whitefish which weighed 5 pounds was also caught near Libby Dam.
You'll find the best rainbow trout fishing to be above Kootenai Falls.
However, if you are looking for the big ones, your best bet it to try casting a mile or two downstream of Libby Dam where the large fish feed on flies, fish, and the remains of fish that get caught in the turbines of the dam. Bring strong gear and a lot of patience.
Although the Libby Dam creates erratic flows, it generally keeps the Kootenai River flowing clear even during the spring run-off. Flows also run fast and cool all summer while other Montana rivers slow down and warm up.
The Kootenai river is usually fished year round. From January through March, most anglers use small B.W.O.s. As spring warms up, the Stoneflies hatch, along with the Caddis and Mayflies. Many anglers find Elk Hair Caddis and yellow Stimulators to be successful flies.
During the summer, you'll see a hatch of Craneflies and another hatch of Stoneflies. Use long leaders and efficient casting. In the fall you'll see a hatch of October Caddis. The best time to fish is during June through August so plan you trip accordingly.
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