Kootenai River

September 3, 2026

Kootenai River

Current conditions for Kootenai River · Map, access and gauges

Flow

6,790 cfs ↓

Water Temp

56°F · Prime temp

Trend

Falling

Observed

4h ago

Hatch Status

Tricos starting to hatch all over the place early in the mornings

Conditions

Flows are falling from seasonal dam releases and settling into the 7,000 cfs range as of September 4. Water temperature sits at 56°F under overcast skies with cooler air temps, typical for the transition into autumn. Nymphing has become the primary approach, though Tricos fire early and hoppers remain effective midday through evening. The river holds exceptional numbers of rainbows, cutthroat, bull trout, and browns in the 12–16 inch range.

Gauges

Techniques

  • Nymphing proper with a double setup under a bobber is getting the most fish
  • Hoppers still working good midday through the evening
  • Nymphing is going to be key from here on out with shorter days and colder daytime temps

Recommended flies

HopperMontana PMXKing Prince BeadheadCopper JohnImperialPeach FuzzBeadhead Prince NymphEZ CaddisMr TickleHackle Stacker

This report covers one day. See today’s bite forecast for Kootenai River.