Spring has arrived in Southwest Montana, and with it, the highly anticipated Big Hole River opener on April 1. Anglers from near and far are dusting off their gear and hitting the water, and for good reason. Fish numbers are trending upward, early flows are encouraging, and the season is shaping up to be one to remember.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
-
Big Hole River spring conditions
-
Updated fishing reports
-
Early-season tactics
-
Fly tying resources
-
New gear at The Stonefly
Snowpack Outlook: A Promising Start
According to recent SNOTEL snowpack data, the Big Hole and surrounding watersheds are trending at or above average. That’s great news for maintaining cool flows through spring and into summer, especially as we look toward long-term river health and fish activity.
Weekly Fishing Reports Are Live
Our Fishing Reports are now updated weekly all season long. Whether you're floating the Big Hole, stalking trout on the Beaverhead, or planning a quick after-work mission, we’ll keep you dialed in with conditions, fly suggestions, and real-time insights from our crew and customers.
Spring Fly Tactics: Embrace the Stain
Don't be deterred by off-color water in spring—it's actually a feature, not a bug. Stained water gives fish more cover, helping them feel secure and making them more likely to eat. Focus your efforts on softer seams, inside bends, and deeper runs where fish can sit comfortably.
Go-To Flies for Spring:
-
San Juan Worms – classic high-water producers in pink and red
-
Rubber-leg stonefly nymphs – especially black, brown, or mottled color patterns
-
Skwala Adults – these olive stoneflies are active right now; skate, twitch, or give them subtle movement to draw topwater eats
-
Streamers – spring is prime time for throwing meat, and color matters:
-
JJ Specials
-
Sparkle Minnows in yellow, white, or olive (with flash!)
-
Mini Dungeons
-
Slumpbusters with brighter tones and extra movement
-
🧵 Tying your own flies? Stock up on the materials you need for these patterns here:
👉 Fly Tying Materials
New Product Highlight: Grundéns Now at The Stonefly
We’re proud to announce we’re now an official Grundéns dealer! Known for their rugged, waterproof gear built for commercial and sport anglers alike, Grundéns delivers serious performance. From waders and jackets to sunwear and layering, their gear is made to withstand Montana’s wildest weather.
BOGO: Scientific Anglers Tippet & Leaders
We're teaming up with Scientific Anglers to offer a Buy One, Get One Free deal on all leaders and tippet. It’s a great opportunity to load up on essentials as the season ramps up.
Whether you’re just getting back into the swing of things or you never stopped fishing, we’re here to help you make the most of every day on the water. Stop by the shop in Butte or browse gear, fly tying materials, and more online at www.thestonefly.com.
See you out there,
The Stonefly Crew
