Ruby River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ruby River |
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Fly Fisherman on the Ruby River
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| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | 4,642 feet (1,415 m) 45°31′13″N 112°20′25″W / 45.52028°N 112.34028°W |
| Length | 76 miles (122 km) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Missouri River |
| Basin size | Snowcrest Range and Gravelly Range |
The Ruby River is a river in southwestern Montana, United States. It is about 76 miles (122 km) long. The river starts in the Beaverhead National Forest. This area is in Madison County, between the Snowcrest Range and the Gravelly Range mountains.
The Ruby River flows north through the Ruby River Reservoir. It then goes past a town called Alder. After that, it flows northwest, with the Tobacco Root Mountains on one side and the Ruby Range on the other. Finally, it joins the Beaverhead River near Twin Bridges. The Beaverhead River then becomes the Jefferson River a short distance downstream.
This river has had many different names over time. Some of these names include Pah-mamar-roi, Philanthropy River, and Stinking Water River.
The Ruby River is a "Class II river." This means people can use it for fun activities like boating and fishing.
Fishing in the Ruby River
The Ruby River is a great place for fly fishing. Fly fishing is a way to catch fish using special lightweight lures. Even though the river has faced challenges like "whirling disease" and a large "fish kill" in 1994, it still offers excellent fishing.
Upper River Fishing
The upper part of the river, above the Ruby Reservoir, is perfect for catching certain types of fish. You can find rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and grayling here.
Lower River Fishing
Below the Ruby Dam, the river is known for its excellent brown trout fishing. Brown trout usually measure between 10 and 14 inches long. However, some can grow much larger, up to 18 or 20 inches!
It can be hard to reach some parts of the lower river. This means not many people fish there. Most fishing happens at a few public spots below the dam. These spots can get crowded, especially in the summer.
River Supporters
Many groups work to protect and improve the Ruby River and other rivers in Montana. They help keep the water clean and make sure people can enjoy these natural places.
- Jefferson River Watershed Council — This group helps protect the natural resources and quality of life in the Jefferson River area.
- Trout Unlimited — Their goal is to protect and bring back coldwater fish and their homes across North America.
- Western Watersheds Project — This group works to protect and restore western lands and wildlife.
- Montana River Action — They aim to protect and restore Montana's rivers and streams. They believe clean water is a right for everyone in Montana.
- Public Land/Water Access Association — This group works to make sure people can always reach public lands and waters in Montana.
- Montana Trout Stalkers — This group offers guided fishing trips on the Ruby River. They also support public access to streams and help protect the river's fish.
