Brown Trout

If you're chasing brown trout in Montana, the area around Pinesdale offers some fantastic opportunities. The Bitterroot River, a classic freestone river, is the main draw here. Its diverse structure, from riffles and runs to deep pools, provides ideal habitat for browns. Targeting them during the spring runoff (late May/early June) can be tough due to high, muddy water, but patience can be rewarding as larger fish become more active. The fall, particularly September and October, is prime time, with cooler water and spawning activity increasing aggression. A local tip: access can be tricky in some areas, so research public access points along Highway 93 carefully. Also, be mindful of irrigation withdrawals, which can drastically affect water levels in late summer. The Bitterroot browns are known for being opportunistic feeders, so a variety of fly patterns or lures can be effective. Don't be afraid to experiment with streamers and nymphs to find what they're keying on.