The Kootenay River

The “wild one” – where the Bull Trout Safari began

The Kootenay River is the uppermost major tributary of the Columbia River. It flows through British Columbia, Montana and Idaho and before returning back into B.C. As all major streams in the Kootenay empty into this river, it is best fished in April and May before runoff and then again in the fall. Angling in the summer can be difficult due to the glacial melt which often leaves the Kootenay a silty color well into the summer months. The Kootenay is not for your average flip flop wearing trout fly fisher, but more for those who are willing to tough it out through unpredictable weather.  We run our bull trout safari in our power drifter jet sleds, the ultimate fly fishing vessels for this type of river with limited access.  Anglers must be well equipped with good gear to withstand the potentially nasty weather and long days. Extra gloves, hats and base layers are required, but that being said, on warm days fishing in a T-shirt  is a possibility. Some days you see rising cutthroat and rainbows, but it is the bull trout chasing after streamers stripped through deep pockets that bring the most excitement. The water level is so low and clear in the fall which leads to many of these huge trout being caught on small streamers and nymphs. Once you spend a couple days on the Kootenay River, you will be hooked into returning to explore this unique fishery. Keep in mind that the Kootenay is a true wilderness river and angling can be challenging with changing weather and water conditions. Call us about our Kootenay River Bull Tout Safari!