August update - The Kootenai is a cool gem on a hot day!

We’ve said it before, and it is still a fact. The Kootenai River does not have hoot owl hours! Why? Because the dam above Libby Mt does an excellent job of keeping the water at perfect trout feeding temps. We have been wet wading for weeks now and enjoying a refreshing break from the hot days by stepping out of the boat and standing in riffles while fishing.

The current flow is holding at 9,000 CFS. Fishing has been consistent both above Twin Rivers and floating into Bonners Ferry. Morning fly patterns have been small mayfly imitations and we switch to foam patterns after lunch. Grass hoppers are plentiful this summer, so dive into your fly boxes for those patterns in tan and salmon colors.

We did play with a mouse pattern this week and had a 15 inch trout hit it hard on the second cast. It was the clients first time with such a big fly and his smile lit up the boat as he played it into the net. Plenty of available dates this summer. TLR has added a new guide on the Kootenai so we can accommodate groups of 4 to 6. We also have half day trips available, gear provided with plenty of water and a light snack on the water. Normally we start at 7:30 am and we are off the water about 12:30, but we can also do an afternoon float. Full day trips of course, last… all day!

You can book your trip directly from the web site, www.tlrog.com. The available dates will pop up. Or you can call or text me directly at 253-350-2021. If you are in Bonner’s Ferry, come see us at the fly shop at 6418 Kootenai Street, next to Jack’s Club. Our hours are 9 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday (when we are not on the river or shuttling.)

Stay cool and keep fishing!