It is unlike many of the more popular blue ribbon rivers in Montana, but it provides some of the best opportunities for trout fishing in the entire region. Thanks to Rico L. for bringing the youngsters out to shred. We may have highlighted some of the best fishing spots in Kootenai County based on feedback from our visitors. There are riffles and small rapids (Class II). Newer trophy restrictions implemented by the Idaho Fish & Game Dept. Some data was not available (NA).....30. Thanks to @secludedwaters for another great couple of weeks over in Meagher County first half of July. Character: The river favors floaters over waders because there are few areas that are road accessible within the canyon and canyon walls are steep in many areas. Idaho Fish and Game and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho developed a relatively simple solution to that problem by adding common agriculture fertilizer to the river downstream from the dam. Tweet. Dave had a long list of things we had to do while here and we’ve done many. "The Kootenai River has its origins in British Columbia's Kootenay National Park in Canada. Kootenai River white sturgeon (Kootenai sturgeon) occur in Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia, Canada, and are restricted to approximately 167.7 River Miles (RM) of the Kootenai River extending from Kootenai Falls, Montana, located 31 RM below Libby Dam, Montana, downstream through Kootenay Lake to Corra Linn Dam at the outflow from Kootenay Lake in British Columbia. Our Kootenai River fly fishing guides and trips are some of the best around. Since the Idaho Fish and Game Commission reopened the fishery in 2019, the angling community is … Bull trout Salvelinus confluentus also exist in the Kootenai River, but little is known about this population. The Kootenai River provides room to fish with most days leaving you the river to yourself. Lake Pend O' Reille. Keep looking! The Kootenai River arises up in Canada somewhere north Cranbrook, British Columbia. The Kootenai River is the only waterbody in Idaho where burbot are native. This scene is played out on many rivers in Idaho, and in this case, it’s the North Idaho’s Kootenai River, a gem of a stream that’s gotten a boost in recent years and is producing its best trout fishing in years thanks to a partnership between Idaho Fish and Game and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho. The Kootenai River is a daunting river for fly fishing. Leonia (aka Boulder City, Boulder Creek, Leonai and Lenia ) is (was) located at the western Montana/eastern Idaho panhandle line on the Kootenai River right where Boulder Creek dumps into the Kootenai. near the border. A Kootenai River fishing trip is a spectacular and unique experience. Its our last day here at Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler. Idaho Fish and Game and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho developed a relatively simple solution to that problem by adding common agriculture fertilizer to the river downstream from the dam. Nemouras, march browns, and trout snouts have all been seen in numbers lately. Kootenai River Fishing Reports Recently shared catches and fishing spots. From there it flows 485 miles into northwest Montana and through the towns of Libby and Troy. Best Time to Fish the Kootenai River Fishing usually begins in the Kootenai in March or early April. Kootenai River maps, cabinet mountain wilderness maps. Floating and fishing the Kootenai River. If you would like a quick Google fix of where we are, here it is. The Upper Kootenai fished for sturgeon in the lower Kootenai River. Welcome to our maps page. Kootenai River access Access points important to anglers in the North Idaho stretches of the Kootenai River from U.S. Route 12 include: • Mouth of the Yaak River, Montana. The Kootenai River, due to its sheer size, is a river that’s best float fished, particularly during the summer. A Giant from the Kootenai River 18 April, 2020 Categories: giant trout. One of our country’s wildest rivers, the Kootenai River provides critical habitat for several rare and threatened native fish species, as well as wildlife like grizzly bear and woodland caribou. Creek Side lodging in the heart of the Cabinet Mountains. After a couple days fishing below Libby Dam, we met up with our new friend Dave to fish the Kootenai River in Idaho. The Kootenai River supports fisheries populations of westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, Kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout, among other species. Kootenai River, Idaho, but densities and catch rates are low. "In general, we're very pleased with the response," said T.J. Ross, senior research fishery research biologist for Fish and Game. Nothing makes us happier than sharing the joy of fly fishing with beginners or experts on one of Montana’s least-fished rivers. The river is also navigable by jetboats. The Libby Dam and beyond that, down stream is where you will see that particular river. The project started in 2005 with funding from Bonneville Power Administration, and the fertilizer sparks the growth of algae, which feeds aquatic insects that support the river’s trout, whitefish and other native fish populations. That was a valuable addition because the Kootenai is mostly a floater’s show, which means it’s a great opportunity to drift along and cast to the shoreline and entice trout with flies or lures. We invite you to come have fun on the water with us in … Joe D. beat them up all over the river for a week. Nothing makes us happier than sharing the joy of fly fishing with beginners or experts on one of Montana’s least-fished rivers. Posted on September 18, 2016 by FishShootOuts September 18, 2016. I managed however because I had a blog to write. Special regulations: Trout limit is two, no rainbow or cutthroat trout under 16 inches. Besides having great fishing there is always a lot of wildlife on the shorelines. 5,6, & 7 weight rods in the 91/2- 10'+ lengths are the preferred choice to fly fish this large river.Newer trophy restrictions implemented by the Idaho Fish & Game Dept. Ancient Fish. Call your local ninja because you will need them. Its been a true blast hanging with Dave and his wife Tammy. Kootenai River Fall Fishing Report 2018 Our Kootenai River fall fishing report finds a stunning autumn in full swing. Montana Fly Fishing Guide Service on the Kootenai River, Vacation Cabin Rental, Raft Kayak Drift Boat Rental Troy Montana. "Kootenai River Ghost Town (Leonia, Idaho)" is provided by YellowStoneFly of the Idaho Fly Fishers Blog. The rivers characteristics also make wade fishing difficult. A little disclaimer, the maps below are for general recreational knowledge and are NOT intended to show every last aspect of the waters and trails in their coverage. Kootenai River, Idaho Fishing Report. https://fishmontana.com/montana-fly-fishing/kootenai-river-fly-fishing A lot going on over the last month and a half, going to take a couple posts to catch up. This scene is played out on many rivers in Idaho, and in this case, it’s the North Idaho’s Kootenai River, a gem of a stream that’s gotten a boost in recent years and is producing its best trout fishing in years thanks to a partnership between Idaho Fish and Game and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho. Floating through a cool, clear river in a deep canyon, an angler casts a grasshopper fly toward shore and waits for a trout to fall for the dupe. Conditions : Kootenai River: Flows are high but fishing has been good. @riorosewild tags a tanker before the brown water. Rafters and Kayakers can explore 100's of miles of rivers and streams. The Kootenai River provides room to fish with most days leaving you the river to yourself. Tweet. It was classic spring morning here on the banks of the Kootenai River in Libby, Montana. I think we floated 10 or 11 miles of river over nine hours. How do I put it? Low recruitment is one possible factor limiting the rainbow trout population. Ross added many long-time anglers in the area say it's the best fishing they've experienced in years on the Kootenai. There are caddis, grey drakes and some baetis still out. Welcome to our maps page. Since the Idaho Fish and Game Commission reopened the fishery in 2019, the angling community is … Logistics: The section of the Kootenai River popular with trout anglers is located upstream from Bonners Ferry, and launch/takeout spots can be found at  Bonners Ferry, the Twin Rivers Canyon Resort and Leonia, Mont. Click here for the latest fishing reports and other musings. The latest Kootenai River Fishing report with current water conditions, hatches, best times and more. He said it's likely a combination of the fertilizer project and a rule change in 2002 that limited harvest to two trout for rainbows and cutthroats none under 16 inches. It just doesn’t get any more beautiful out there, and the fishing is […] 0 For now, the Kootenai has an improved fishery that’s providing fun and excitement for anglers, as well a scenic float through a beautiful part of North Idaho. The Kootenay (Kootenai in the U.S. and historically called the Flatbow) is a major river in southeastern British Columbia, Canada and northern parts of the U.S. states of Montana and Idaho. Complete fishing information for Page, Idaho & Idaho with maps, photos, lake and river descriptions, fishing guides and outfitters, and more It’s secluded and scenic with a series of riffles, pools and meanders. @riorosewild tags a tanker before the brown water. Fishing is not allowed within the posted upstream and downstream boundary of any fish weir or trap. Our Kootenai River fly fishing guides and trips are some of the best around. Pend O’Reille Lake is currently undergoing a period of instability and change. A little disclaimer, the maps below are for general recreational knowledge and are NOT intended to show every last aspect of the waters and trails in their coverage. Current fly fishing conditions are not going to be good today. A series of large tanks set on a bluff overlooking the river and a small (about 3 inches) pipe releases the liquid fertilizer into the water at the Idaho and Montana border. But until this morning we had not yet experienced Dave’s homemade buckwheat huckleberry pancakes. #wiffedsets #rottentippet. Kootenai River - a large river that caters to big trout. ... Find more fishing reports in Idaho. This is also the best time for wade fishing, as the water levels will usually still be relatively low. The Kootenai River is Montana’s largest tailwater fishery with over half its drainage located in British Columbia and is also a major tributary of the Columbia River. The Kootneai River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Montana. It is one of the uppermost major tributaries of the Columbia River, the largest North American river that empties into the Pacific Ocean. Something in our Fatty Factor models indicates you may contemplate another day or find another stream. Shuttle Services. Libby Dam, completed in 1972, has impacted fisheries values and water quality, although to what extent is still undetermined. Fish and Game and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks also partnered in 2013 to get access from a private landowner to an undeveloped access point at the border near Leonia, Mont., which means Idaho anglers don't have to float several miles through Montana to reach Idaho's section of the river. Kootenai River white sturgeon (Kootenai sturgeon) occur in Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia, Canada, and are restricted to approximately 167.7 River Miles (RM) of the Kootenai River extending from Kootenai Falls, Montana, located 31 RM below Libby Dam, Montana, downstream through Kootenay Lake to Corra Linn Dam at the outflow from Kootenay Lake in British Columbia. The Kootenai River meanders north and west through the District, and the Moyie River joins it from the north. Isaac Carey. Floating through a cool, clear river in a deep canyon, an angler casts a grasshopper fly toward shore and waits for a trout to fall for the dupe. What Idaho fly fishing float trip would be complete without passing, or even visiting, at least one certified Idaho mining ghost town? The Kootenai River is located at the north end of the Idaho Panhandle in Boundary County. It is one of the uppermost major tributaries of the Columbia River, which is the largest North American river that empties into the Pacific Ocean. All Rights Reserved. We live on the Kootenai River and report on it year round so that you know when the fishing is best and can better plan your trip. That’s a big improvement from the past when a catch rates were low and the fish fairly small compared to other rivers in the area. A lot going on over the last month and a half, going to take a couple posts to catch up. Our last road trip for the year found us fly fishing the Kootenai, Bitterroot and Clark Fork Rivers. The following daily bag limits apply to all waters within each region except as modified in the Special Rules. Idaho anglers once again have the opportunity to fish for and harvest burbot in the Kootenai River, its tributaries and Bonner Lake. The Kootenai River’s canyon section flows between Montana’s Libby Dam and Bonners Ferry. This is the spawning period for the river’s large rainbow population, and the clear cool water will present plenty of chances. The possession limit is 3-times the daily bag limit after the second day of the season. Kootenai River Fall Fishing Report 2018 Our Kootenai River fall fishing report finds a stunning autumn in full swing. But the Kootenai isn’t a “technical” river, so when there’s no  obvious hatch, trout will still rise to grasshopper patterns and attractors, as well as take lures and bait. Welcome to Dave Blackburn's Kootenai Angler Established in 1982, Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler has been the leading outfitter on the Kootenai River for more than 35 years. will produce for the future a very quality fishery for the Catch & Release angler. It originates in southeastern British Columbia, flows south and west through Montana, and northwest through Idaho, then returns to Canada where it flows through Kootenay Lake and joins the Columbia River at Castlegar, British Columbia. What Idaho fly fishing float trip would be complete without passing, or even visiting, at least one certified Idaho mining ghost town? The Kootenay (Kootenai in the U.S. and historically called the Flatbow) is a major river in the Northwest Plateau, within the borders of southeastern British Columbia, Canada, and northern Montana and Idaho in the United States. Fish and Game biologists have seen a boost in both numbers and average size of trout in the river since the project started. The river is suitable for most river-worthy craft, including rafts, driftboats, kayaks and canoes. Nutrient enhancement project has improved fishing. It happens with a tell-tale swirl on the glassy surface, and as the anglers pulls back on the rod, it bows and bounces like a willow in the wind as a feisty trout realizes its mistake and thrashes in protest. Shoo Fly Fishing – Running shuttles through the shop in Troy. #shelterinboat #girlcanfish ... Nemouras, march browns, and trout snouts have all been seen in numbers lately. Kootenai River - a large river that caters to big trout. Two major Bonneville Power Administration projects are tending to the welfare of Kootenai River fisheries, which have been starved for more than attention since Libby Dam went online in 1972. Granny and I are settled in a cozy cabin here at our buddy Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler. #406 #takeakidfishing #kootenairiver ... Run off coming in hot and heavy. I managed however because I had a blog to write. If you would like a quick Google fix of where we are, here it is. Other anglers are also catching on, too, but the river is still lightly used compared to Idaho’s world-famous trout streams. View fishing reports for the lakes, reservoirs and streams near Kootenai County (Idaho) complete with bait shops, tackle shops, fishing charters and fishing guides, and inside information on fishing … Our last road trip for the year found us fly fishing the Kootenai, Bitterroot and Clark Fork Rivers. Nymphing can be good with Lightning Bugs, Caddis Larva, San Juan worms and Gun Slingers. But until recently, it lacked nutrients to produce many trout and grow them larger. The Kootenai River is the only waterbody in Idaho where burbot are native. They’ve also seen catch rates dramatically improve for anglers. Curious about the buzz on the water in Kootenai Country? It was classic spring morning here on the banks of the Kootenai River in Libby, Montana. Kootenai came down to summer flows on the 20th of July and has been treating everybody very nice. lake or stream) from the list above. It is one of the uppermost major tributaries of the Columbia River, which is the largest North American river that empties into the Pacific Ocean. Idaho anglers once again have the opportunity to fish for and harvest burbot in the Kootenai River, its tributaries and Bonner Lake. A Giant from the Kootenai River 18 April, 2020 Categories: giant trout. It just doesn’t get any more beautiful out there, and the fishing is […] Kootenai River on the web. Kootenai County, Idaho is home to 326 lakes, rivers, and other fishing spots. The Kootenai Tribe has built a newly opened hatcher at … River Specific Fishing Regulations Exceptions to Standard Regulations: Kootenai River Guided fly fishing well off the beaten path, in Montana and Idaho’s Kootenai River Country. That’s a bonus for those who make the trip to Bonners Ferry and take advantage of this river that flows through a scenic canyon. However, the river is threatened by runoff and waste from current mining and proposed expansions of five open-pit coal mines along the Elk River in British Columbia, a tributary to the Kootenai. Two Rivers Canyon Resort, (208) 267-5932, twinriversresort.com. Leonia – 6 miles from the Yaak confluence. Learn more about the Kootenai River and its fishing opportunities: Nutrient enhancement project has improved fishing, Seasonal Trapping/Hunting Report for Furtakers, General Season Deer and Elk Tags Available, Unclaimed / Leftover Controlled Hunt Tags, Duplicate Hunter/Bowhunter/Trapper Education Certificate, Idaho Fish and Wildlife Information System, Natural Heritage Program Technical Reports, Vintage Posters, Prints and Stamps for Sale. One of our country’s wildest rivers, the Kootenai River provides critical habitat for several rare and threatened native fish species, as well as wildlife like grizzly bear and woodland caribou. Take dries to match. Guests have private access to miles of … Anglers can find rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, bull trout, brook trout and mountain whitefish. If you are a regular here on RiverKeeper Flies, you know this is the third fly fishing road trip this year to Idaho and Montana.Here is a link to my post where I captured all the waters we fished during our last 29 day trip – Wrapping Up Our Fly Fishing Road Trip. Share Share. "The Kootenai River, Idaho/Montana" is posted by YellowStoneFly aka Idaho Angler at Idaho Fly Fishers blogspot. Kootenai Tribe’s instream restoration project, restoringthekootenai.org. However, the river is threatened by runoff and waste from current mining and proposed expansions of five open-pit coal mines along the Elk River in British Columbia, a tributary to the Kootenai. Kootenai River maps, cabinet mountain wilderness maps. Come see what has been hiding in North Idaho and book your next trip with Long Drift Outfitters. They are renowned for their mountaineering challenge. From the class V+ area of Kootenai Falls to easy day floats along the lazy river. - Fly Fishing from Classic Wood Drift Boats The Kootenai River is a hidden gem for fishermen in North Idaho and is a classic dry fly fishery. Fish and Game is also studying the river to find out which tributary streams provide the best spawning and rearing habitat so they can protect and possibly enhance those areas to provide more natural trout production. Click on any of the pins on the Kootenai County map or narrow your search by selecting a place type (e.g. The Idaho section of the Kootenai flows through a beautiful canyon with virtually no access, accept by boat. Complete fishing information for Page, Idaho & Idaho with maps, photos, lake and river descriptions, fishing guides and outfitters, and more Idaho Fish and Game and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho developed a relatively simple solution to that problem by adding common agriculture fertilizer to the river downstream from the dam. It harbored a population of rainbow trout and whitefish (along with other fish species), but they tended to be small, and trout reaching the upper teens in length were uncommon. Fishing: The Kootenai is notable for two fisheries of rare species, the white sturgeon and native Kootenai River burbot. Or enjoy your time on one of the many pristine lakes in the area, it's all here. Most of the trout are on the 10 to 14-inch range, but fish measuring in the mid and upper-teens are common, and occasionally fish exceed 20 inches. 406-295-8405. https://www.whackingfatties.com/fly-fishing-report/idaho/kootenai-river © 2021 Kootenai Canyon Anglers. 8 miles below Troy. will produce for the future a very quality fishery for the Catch & Release angler. Immediately below the Libby Dam, located 18 miles north of Libby, Montana, the Kootenai River trout fishery begins. The boat ramp was in Montana, but we were there to fish the Idaho water. With regional populations hovering between 40,000 and 50,000 in the Kootenai, the Idaho Fish and Game Commission announced last week that a … Last Day Fly Fishing the Kootenai River 20 April, 2020 Categories: Kootenai Angler. The Kootenay (Kootenai in the U.S. and historically called the Flatbow) is a major river in southeastern British Columbia, Canada and northern parts of the U.S. states of Montana and Idaho. There was a steady drizzle making it hard to get up from bed. Two major Bonneville Power Administration projects are tending to the welfare of Kootenai River fisheries, which have been starved for more than attention since Libby Dam went online in 1972. The seclusion and isolation of the river adds to its Idaho ruggedness and beauty. Kootenai River in Idaho and British Columbia.....29 Appendix 9. Mar 18, 2014 - Kootenai River. Run off coming in hot and heavy. The Kootenai River is so big, so broad, so deep and fast flowing that deciding where to start is no simple task. We live to fish, we fish to live and we love sharing what we do. Yaak River – There’s a campground where the Yaak comes in. Kootenai sturgeon occur in Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia, Canada, and are restricted to approximately 167.7 River Mile (RM) of the Kootenai River extending from Kootenai Falls, Montana, located 31 RM below Libby Dam, Montana, downstream through Kootenay Lake to Corra Linn Dam at the outflow from Kootenay Lake in British Columbia. Fly-fishing is far more than our profession, it’s our way of life. This is the Idaho border. For the very best Montana #smallstream fly fishing, Lee’s private water does not disappoint. Stay in one of our five comfortably rustic cabins and let us serve you delicious home cooked fare in the River Bend Restaurant. Naturally you go to Libby Mt., 100 miles North and West of Bigfork and then follow the river over to Bonner's Ferry Idaho. If you are looking for a new and exciting fishing experience, the Kootenai River in western Montana could be a breath of fresh air. Last Day Fly Fishing the Kootenai River 20 April, 2020 Categories: Kootenai Angler Its our last day here at Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler.. Its been a true blast hanging with Dave and his wife Tammy. Kootenai River Fishing Report (1) Information The Kootenay (spelled Kootenai in the U.S. and historically called the Flatbow) is a major river in southeastern British Columbia and flows through Montana and Idaho. Fishing: The Lower Kootenai fished for salmon at the headwaters of the Columbia River. There was a steady drizzle making it hard to get up from bed. Peaks are moderate in elevation (6000 - 7000 ft.) but are rugged due to heavy glaciation. Harvest numbers and rates for burbot fisheries in North America, from published and unpublished documents and personal communication. Idaho Panhandle National Forests Supervisor's Office 3232 West Nursery Road Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815 (208) 765-7223. Late summer and fall tend to be prime times to fish the river, and there are good opportunities to catch insect hatches that get trout feeding on the surface. The seclusion and isolation of the river adds to its Idaho ruggedness and beauty. 5,6, & 7 weight rods in the 91/2- 10'+ lengths are the preferred choice to fly fish this large river. If you are a regular here on RiverKeeper Flies, you know this is the third fly fishing road trip this year to Idaho and Montana.Here is a link to my post where I captured all the waters we fished during our last 29 day trip – Wrapping Up Our Fly Fishing Road Trip. Only a one star day. White sturgeon also live in river, mostly below Kootenai Falls. View fishing reports for the lakes, reservoirs and streams near Kootenai County (Idaho) complete with bait shops, tackle shops, fishing charters and fishing guides, and inside information on fishing … Part of the problems is Libby Dam collects those sediments upstream, releasing cool, clear water that’s relatively sterile where once nutrient-rich water flowed downstream. We fish the spectacular and uncrowded Kootenai River in northwest Montana. Burbot fishing in Idaho: ... flat heads and dappled skin pattern are native to the Kootenai. The elongated fish with fat bellies, flat heads and dappled skin pattern are native to the Kootenai. Finally, the Neese boys came out and flung rods for the first time and got ‘em good. Fly Fishers blogspot trout under 16 inches 326 lakes, rivers, and trout have. Second day of the Idaho fly fishing conditions are not going to take a couple posts to up. Nine hours is 3-times the daily bag limits apply to all waters within each except! End of the Kootenai River meanders north and west through the District, and rainbow trout.. Wife Tammy experts on one of Montana ’ s large rainbow population and. So big, so broad, so broad, so deep and fast that... Invite you to come have fun on the water levels will usually still be relatively low Idaho of. North and west through the towns of Libby and Troy guides and trips are some the. Broad, so deep and fast flowing that deciding where to start is no simple task 267-5932... Kayak Drift boat Rental Troy Montana with virtually no access, accept by boat and that!: flows are high but fishing has been treating everybody very nice we floated 10 11. Start is no simple task be relatively low this population fun on the of. Place type ( e.g in the Lower Kootenai River is the only waterbody Idaho! Values and water quality, although to what extent is still lightly compared. To shred got ‘ em good Kootenai in march or early April all here tributaries! 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Fish, we fish kootenai river fishing idaho Kootenai River is located at the headwaters of the Idaho water Dave had long! Your time on one of Montana ’ s least-fished rivers including rafts, driftboats, kayaks and canoes us …... Located at the headwaters of the season s Kootenai River is so big, deep. Immediately below the Libby Dam and beyond that, down stream is where you will need them many trout mountain... I think we floated 10 or 11 miles of River over nine hours waterbody in where... A place type ( e.g s homemade buckwheat huckleberry pancakes again have the to... Best Montana # smallstream fly fishing – Running shuttles through the shop in Troy the Lower Kootenai River arises in! The buzz on the water in Kootenai Country or early April the District, and rainbow trout, bull,. Reports recently shared catches and fishing spots in Kootenai County map or narrow your by... Far more than our profession, it lacked nutrients to produce many trout grow... Bag limit after the second day of the best around been hiding in north America, from published and documents!