Fly Fishing West Fork Bitterroot River - Conner

Overview

The West Fork Bitterroot below Painted Rocks Dam flows through willow, cottonwood and conifer country toward the East Fork junction near Conner. Pocket water, riffles, rock gardens and deeper pools create varied holding water for westslope cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Reservoir releases influence the current, while tributaries add a freestone element to the river below the dam.

Reading the West Fork

Look for a soft lane beside a faster seam or depth behind a rock. A short, controlled drift can cover a pocket without dragging across adjoining currents. In a longer pool, a nymph or streamer offers another approach to fish holding beneath bank cover.

Skwala, salmonfly and golden stonefly patterns provide stonefly choices through spring and early summer. Green drakes add another larger dry-fly option. Blue-winged olives offer spring and fall patterns, with fall caddis and mahogany duns extending the seasonal selection.

Spruce moths, hoppers, ants and beetles can cover forested or grassy edges during warmer weather. A dry-dropper searches both a surface lane and the pocket below it. Let visible insects and the fish’s response guide fly choice and presentation.

Dam releases, snowmelt and tributary runoff change depth and clarity. Observe the depth, clarity and current of the actual pool or riffle before choosing a fishing position.

Access

Applebury Boating Site is on the southeast side of West Fork Road, about nine miles from its Highway 93 junction. Park in the designated area above the launch and walk the couple hundred feet to the West Fork. The Forest Service identifies river fishing at this site and limited trailer parking. See the manager’s Applebury information.