Alder Bridgeon Ruby River
River flow last 30 days
Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) are actively hatching
- 01Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) are actively hatching, ranging from size 16 to 22, with strongest emergences mid-morning to early afternoon, especially on overcast days.
- 02October Caddis are a significant, larger insect hatch beginning to influence feeding patterns.
- 03Terrestrial fishing remains viable in early fall, particularly with larger foam patterns.
- 04Subsurface nymphs and streamers are consistent producers for trout keying on a variety of forage.
- 05Stealthy approaches are key due to clear water conditions.
What to tie on at Alder Bridge
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Pale Morning Dun Sparkle Dun
Explicitly recommended as a trailing fly for nymphing and matches the active PMD emergence that trout are keying on in the film.
San Juan Worm
Explicitly recommended in recent angler reports as highly effective for nymphing, especially given varying flows that can wash worms into the river.
Buy at AmazonYellow Sally
Yellow Sallies are actively on the water, providing excellent dry fly opportunities with fish looking up for these stoneflies.
Buy at AmazonPMDs
Pale Morning Duns are very active on the Ruby River, making this a top choice for targeting rising trout.
Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) Comparadun
Fall BWO hatches (size 16-22) are explicitly expected mid-September into October on the Ruby River, and this pattern is excellent for selective trout on adults.
Buy at AmazonOctober Caddis (Dry)
Regional reports confirm October Caddis are becoming a factor in fall, and the Ruby River is known for prolific hatches.
Buy at AmazonElk Hair Caddis
Caddis hatches remain strong through August, and this is a versatile and effective imitation for adult caddis on the surface.
Buy at AmazonTravis Hi-Vis BWO Para Emerger
BWO emergers are crucial during fall hatches, especially when fish are keying on insects struggling in the film.
Hopper
Late summer sees increasing hopper activity, particularly in the lower river's agricultural valleys, making this a prime terrestrial pattern for opportunistic feeders.
Montana season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.