Beaverhead River
FishableMontana
Current Conditions
The Beaverhead River is running at 109 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 8:15 AM from USGS gauge 06016000 (Beaverhead River at Barretts)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 300–600 CFS | Fishable to 1000 CFS | Marginal to 1500 CFS
About the Beaverhead River
The Beaverhead below Clark Canyon Dam is one of Montana's premier tailwaters, producing large brown and rainbow trout. Technical water that rewards skilled anglers with fish averaging 17-20 inches.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-20 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #16 | ||||||||||||
Midge Griffith's Gnat #20 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18-20, Sparkle Dun #18
Patterns: Griffith's Gnat #20, Zebra Midge #20
River Sections
Clark Canyon Dam to Dillon
wade/float access109 CFS
Premier tailwater with trophy trout. Technical nymphing and small dry fly water. Float access recommended.
Dillon to Twin Bridges
float access157 CFS
Lower Beaverhead with larger pools and runs. Bigger water suitable for floating.
Guides on the Beaverhead River(29)
These fishing guides list the Beaverhead River as one of their home waters.
Angler’s West Montana Guide Service
Helena, Montana
Backcountry Montana Adventures
Dillon, Montana
Backcountry Angler
Dillon, Montana
Beartooth Flyfishing
Cameron, Montana
Castabout Guide Service
Livingston, Montana
Craig Fellin Outfitters & Big Hole Lodge
Wise River, Montana
Fishtales Outfitting
Sheridan, Montana
Flatline Outfitters
Twin Bridges, Montana
Ford Creek Guest Ranch
Augusta, Montana
Kemph Outfitting and Consulting
Dillon, Montana
M and M Outfitters
Dillon, Montana
Madison Fly Fisher
Ennis, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Beaverhead River?+
The Beaverhead River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Beaverhead River in March?+
In March, the Beaverhead River sees Blue-Winged Olive, Midge activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18-20, Griffith's Gnat #20. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Beaverhead River?+
Outguided lists 29 fishing guides who operate on the Beaverhead River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Beaverhead River?+
The Beaverhead River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 300–600 CFS.
What fish species are in the Beaverhead River?+
The Beaverhead River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Beaverhead River at Barretts
Station #06016000
Beaverhead River near Twin Bridges
Station #06018500