Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks implemented daily fishing restrictions on the Bitterroot River drainage beginning August 1, citing elevated water temperatures across western Montana. The agency imposed hoot-owl restrictions that prohibit fishing between 2 p.m. and midnight on specific sections of the river system.

The restrictions apply to the West Fork Bitterroot River from Painted Rocks Dam to its confluence with the East Fork, and to the Upper East Fork Bitterroot River from Star Falls to the Highway 93 crossing at Sula. A section of the East Fork below Highway 93 to the West Fork confluence was already operating under hoot-owl restrictions prior to the August announcement.

The agency designed the daytime fishing closure to reduce fish mortality during periods when water temperatures stress aquatic populations. Similar restrictions are in place on other major river sections across southwest Montana as part of the state’s response to warm-water conditions during summer months.

Anglers planning trips to the Bitterroot should verify current restrictions with FWP before heading out, as conditions and regulations can change seasonally. The agency typically adjusts or lifts such restrictions as water temperatures cool in fall.