KOOTENAI RIVER FISHING REPORT
September 10th, 2026
Kootenai River
Flows – 7,200 CFS @ Leonia
Temp – 56
Flies
Fishing has been excellent for the most part recently on the Kootenai. We are still seeing good hatches of mayflies and caddis during the day as well as some Spruce moths, still waiting on the arrival of some October Caddis, but I bet we are close. Nymphing has been a top producer throughout the day when fished near the banks and eddy seams as well as riffle tail outs. This time of year, the streamer fishing can pick up and become more productive for those slightly larger rainbows that are in the system. Flows are at a good level right now and should remain around 7,000 CFS for the remainder of our Fall season on the Kootenai. Remember that the Leonia ramp closes on October 15th leaving us with the option to float from the Yak to Twin Rivers Resort or floating from Twin Rivers to Bonners Ferry. Looking at this weekend, we have some warmer temps coming back into play, probably around 80 so that should make for some decent dry fly opportunity paired with blue skies, get out there and enjoy it while it's here!
Lake Pend Oreille
Temps – 65-63
Level – 2,062.2’ elevation
Flies
Water temperatures continue to trend down into the low 60’s this week making for some great opportunity at larger Smallmouths in the shallows as well as some good Pike action to be had near similar water. The Pike will most likely be found patrolling the shallows near weed lines and dropoffs and other submerged structures. The Smallies can also post-up on structure, but you will also find them patrolling around looking for a meal on the offensive as well. We have some warm weather returning to the area this weekend and into next week so this would be a great time to get out on the water before the real cold stuff gets here. The lake is also still at a good level, making more structure and water to fish before they pull the plug and drain it out.
Small Lakes
Temps – 59-63
Flies
Stillwater trout fishing is back on the board this week with the much cooler water temps due to the cold weather. This can be a really great time of year to get out and enjoy some trout fishing on our smaller lakes with very little angler pressure. As things continue to cool off, fishing should get even better. These trout will start cruising in shallow for longer during the day looking for an easy meal to bulk up before winter. Fishing sink tips lines as well as full sink are helpful this time of year, but you will also find times where your floating line with a long leader is plenty depending on how shallow they are feeding. Leeches, buggers and attractor type flies like Boobies and Blobs all work great in the fall. Don’t be affraid to try a double fly rig to open your presentation.