Southwest Montana seasons
Bozeman fly fishing
calendar
Which rivers fish best near Bozeman, month by month, and which trip to book.
Month by month
Where the trout are eating
Where the trout are eating
Tap a month to see which rivers are fishing best and which trip fits.
| River | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowstone RiverPrime late June to September | ||||||||||||
| Madison RiverYear-round, strong early season | ||||||||||||
| Missouri RiverBest April through June | ||||||||||||
| Gallatin RiverBest fall, winter and early spring | ||||||||||||
| Winter tripsLate fall through early spring |
Yellowstone River
Prime late June to September. Prime time on the Yellowstone. Flows settle after runoff and the trout feed hard on dries along the banks.
Madison River
Year-round, strong early season. The Upper Madison fishes well year-round with a strong early season, and the Lower Madison is best in spring and fall.
Missouri River
Best April through June. The Missouri’s sweet spot. Steady tailwater flows keep it fishing when freestone rivers are high and muddy.
Gallatin River
Best fall, winter and early spring. A favorite time on the Gallatin. Crowds thin out and the trout in the pocket water are willing.
Questions
Fishing season questions
When is the best time to fly fish near Bozeman?
Late June through September is prime time on the Yellowstone and Madison. The Missouri fishes best April through June, and the Gallatin is excellent fall through spring. We guide year-round, including winter.
Do runoff and weather change the plan?
Yes. Spring runoff can blow out freestone rivers for a few weeks, and weather moves the hatches. We pick the river each day based on flows and conditions.
Which river is best for beginners?
The Lower Madison has moderate currents and broad runs that are easy to fish, and the Yellowstone in summer is a classic first float. Every trip includes instruction.
Book your day on the river.
Pick a date and hold it with a 50% deposit. No booking fees, so the price you see is the price you pay.