Popular Western Montana River Fishing Sites Getting Facelifts

Sure, there are lots of fishing access sites among the Missoula and Bitterroot Valleys'  "Big Three" rivers.

But there are two we want to make anglers and river recreation lovers aware of that are undergoing a little cosmetic surgery. One now involves a closure. The other? Well, just be patient and courteous while possibly experiencing parking obstacles.

NO ANCHORS AWEIGH AT THE WEIGH STATION

The Blackfoot River, from Weigh Station Fishing Access Site downstream to the point where the river crosses under Interstate 90 (just above the confluence with the Clark Fork River, is closed for public safety as of Friday, August 22. The BNSF Railway Company is working on railroad bridge pier repairs in this section.

The closure is expected to last through the fall season or until construction work has been completed and no longer presents a risk.

The BNSF construction project includes building a temporary work bridge, and the construction equipment and work will impact enough of the river to make passage through the area unsafe. The closure applies to all usage, such as floating, swimming, wading and fishing.

JOHN AND NANCY SAY, "BE KIND AND COURTEOUS"

Construction is underway to improve and expand amenities at the immensely popular John and Nancy Owen Fishing Access Site, located on the Bitterroot River near Stevensville. The site will remain open during construction, but visitors should expect some congestion and more limited parking.

The construction project will result in a larger, designated parking area for vehicles and boat trailers, a new vault toilet, and a small camping area. The construction work started earlier this month and is expected to continue through the end of October.

Access to the fishing area and parking will remain open during construction, but the site will be congested with construction equipment, and parking may be more limited. Visitors should park away from the construction area.