Fly Fishing Trips

Guided Fly Fishing & Cabin Stays — Gear for Everyone

Fish with us on the Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers! Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced fly angler, Lightweight Fly Shop offers guided trips, great gear, and comfortable cabins. Our shop is stocked for everyone — beginners, weekend warriors, and seasoned pros alike.

 

Operating in part under special use permit with Bitterroot National Forest under permit WF-1802, Blackfoot River under permit #38, the Upper Bitterroot River under permit UBWF-#4, Montana Board of Outfitters Licensee #1509, Andre Carlson.

Updated August 31st

Bitterroot River

Blackfoot River

Clark Fork

Rock Creek

Weather Forecast

Weather Summary (Aug 31 – Sept 6)

Days remain hot and dry, with highs ranging from mid-80s to mid-90s°F—mak­ing early mornings the prime time to fish.

Overnight lows in the low 50s°F offer short relief.

Heat advisories midweek call for caution—bring water, sun protection, and watch stream temperatures closely when fishing.

🚫 Hoot-Owl Restrictions – Updated Status

RiverSection AffectedStatus as of Aug 29

BitterrootUpper: East/West Forks → Veterans Bridge Hoot-owl active (2 p.m.–midnight)

Lower: Veterans Bridge → Clark Fork Open all day

Blackfoot Entire mainstem Hoot-owl active (2 p.m.–midnight)

Clark Fork Entire river Restrictions lifted

Rock Creek Upper: West/Middle Fork → Stoney Creek Hoot-owl active (2 p.m.–midnight)

Fly Box Checklist

  • Bitterroot (Upper): Chubby Chernobyl, Water Walker, Henneberry Hopper, Plan B Foam Ant, Twiggy Trico
  • Bitterroot (Lower): Same lineup plus PMD Sparkle Dun
  • Blackfoot: Water Walker, Chubby Chubby, TJ Hooker, Prince, Perigon
  • Clark Fork: Foam Hopper + tungsten nymphs + streamers
  • Rock Creek: Micro Chubby, PMD Sparkle Dun, Hippie Stomper, Tungsten jig nymphs

Tips from Lightweight Fly Shop

  • Rods: EVOs & Technica—perfect for finesse in low-water
  • Indicators: Oros Strike—dial in your dropper length on the fly
  • Sunglasses: Bajío polarized—spot fish in bright light
  • Tippet: Airflo & Rio—get stealthy with fine rigs

Strategy: “Early & Smart”

  • Beat the heat and release stressed trout by fishing before 2 p.m.
  • Factor in cooler mornings, and if you're on the Bitterroot, consider targeting the lower stretch after midday when conditions allow.
  • Book now for morning trips and reserve cozy cabins to relax midday.

Ready to plan your trip or stay? Call us today!