Selway River

About Selway River

The Selway River, a 100-mile free-flowing tributary of the Middle Fork of the Clearwater, originates in the Bitterroot Mountains at 6,857 feet. This crystal-clear river flows through the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and National Forests, designated as a National Wild and Scenic River. Access to the Selway is restricted; motorized boats are prohibited, and no boat ramps exist. Only one raft trip is permitted daily. ADA access is available at specific points along the river. The Selway is a blue ribbon Westslope Cutthroat Trout fishery. Anglers will find wild westslope cutthroat trout, identifiable by their olive green to steel gray backs, yellow-brown sides, red-pink bellies, and a bright orange slash on the lower jaw. Other game fish present include steelhead, rainbow trout, bull trout, Chinook salmon, Coho salmon, Mountain Whitefish, and Brook Trout. Fly fishing on the Selway River is highly effective, with good fishing typically from mid to late June and excellent conditions in mid-summer. Anglers can hike upstream and fish the various tributary streams. While float trips are common, fishing independently means focusing on wade access. Target seams and structure where current breaks, working flies through likely holding water. Consider small dark mayfly imitations if you see surface activity. Otherwise, subsurface presentations with weighted nymphs or streamers will cover the water column effectively.