Summer Fishing Is Now

Summer mode engaged

June went by in a blur. For us at the Silver Bow, May + June is peak season. Hatches, weather, water, it’s all optimal. As we start to roll through July the shop steadies a bit. Summer travelers make their way into the store, guide trips are consistent, and summer fishing finds it’s rhythm. We are very appreciative of the rain we had recently which gave all the waters around the region and western Montana a little extra boost to keep them plugging along.

Now that the heat of July has arrived, summer mode has engaged. Early mornings, smaller bugs (until the hoppers get going), ants, beetles, caddis, sparser hatches, inner tubers, warm afternoon water temps are all on the fishing menu for the next two months. We will sound a little like groundhog day here for reports, but that is to be expected this time of the year. Currently the St. Joe, NF Clearwater / Kelly Creek, Kootenai River, Clark Fork, and Spokane River are all good “local” options. Notice I didn’t say the NF Coeur d’Alene… as usual it’s skinny in July, this July it’s extra skinny from low snowpack. Yeah you can still fish it, but I’d suggest just morning hours and the middle or lower stretches will be best. The higher up and tribs are pretty minimal water flows. Please do check water temps, usually after 2pm-ish and through the evening the water is at it’s peak temperature for the day, anything over the 68-70 degree range is not safe for trout.

The Spokane River guide crew has been getting out early lately on the water to beat the warmer weather and has had good consistent action. We usually fish dry / dropper combos all summer long. We are fortunate to have cold water recharge from the aquifer to keep the Spokane Redbands healthy during summer heat, it is one of the better fisheries in the area during summertime. Call our shop Guide Manager, Bo Brand, to get on the summer schedule 509-924-9998.

We appreciate being your go-to source for all things fly fishing and regional guided trips. The only things you’ll find at the Silver Bow are quality fly fishing gear, good information, and good times! Thank you for supporting our small business.