It is Skwalla time!! Are you ready for fly fishing in Montana?
Any fly fisherman knows that the beginning of the season is very exciting.
The Skwalla hatch is about to begin signaling the official opening of fly fishing season in Western Montana.
This tradition usually starts in March and lasts through April.
The Bitterroot River Skwall Hatch is on!
The Bitterroot River is famous for this annual event in that the Skwalla (Stonefly pattern) hatch occurs earlier than most Rocky Mountain rivers due to the warmer climate. The Bitterroot Valley is known as the “Banana Belt” of Montana making the winter months not as long or harsh.
The other local rivers – the Clark Fork, The Blackfoot and Rock Creek also will enjoy the Skwalla but not as early and definitely not as robust of activity.
There are a number of wonderful day floats to experience this exciting season. My favorite is the Hannon Memorial to Wally Crawford near Darby and Stevensville Wye to Florence Bridge.
The Bitterroot River can be a bit tricky during high water with underwater snags and changing channel conditions. Seasoned fly fishing guides are available to expertly guide you, suggest the right pattern and let you catch beautiful healthy trout. If you need referrals to wonderful guides let me know and I will provide a few names for your use.
USGS Measuring Teton River
If you are interested in keeping up on the flow rates you can click here.
Choose the Montana section then click on the link for the Bitterroot River near Darby.
As you float down the Bitterroot River, you will see beautiful, waterfront luxury properties.
There 
are a select number of opportunities that offer river front living in a private and serene setting. A discrete offering is The Lodge on the Bitterroot which offers 49 acres, a mile of riverfront living, multiple residences and close convenience to Hamilton, Montana. Tour this exceptional offering at (www.TheLodgeOnTheBitterroot)
If you have never experienced the Skwalla Hatch – add it to your bucket list. You will not be disappointed. I will see you on the river!