Yaak River

The Yaak River flows through the remote northwest corner of Montana near the Idaho border, offering fishing for native westslope cutthroat trout and bull trout in one of the state's least-visited regions. This small river drains the heavily forested Yaak Valley in the Kootenai National Forest, providing a wilderness fishing experience without the long hike. The river holds good numbers of cutthroat in the 8-14 inch range, with occasional larger fish and bull trout. Brook trout are also present in tributary streams. The Yaak fishes best from late spring through fall, with attractor dry flies and small nymphs effective on willing fish. Access is available along Highway 508 and various forest roads. The remote location and small population of the Yaak Valley mean light fishing pressure year-round. This is exploratory fishing for anglers seeking to discover Montana's hidden corners away from the famous destination waters.