Itinerary
3 Days of Fly Fishing Around Bozeman
Known for its many rivers, lakes, and streams, Bozeman is home to healthy trout and an angler's haven. The Gallatin, Jefferson, and Madison rivers merge just down the road in Three Forks to create the mighty Missouri River, each offering a fantastic fishing experience. Across Bozeman Pass, the Yellowstone River, the largest undammed river in the U.S., flows from its headwaters in Yellowstone National Park through Livingston and onto the eastern border of Montana, where it joins the Missouri River.
Stellar opportunities exist in every direction, so we've gathered some suggestions to maximize your stay!
Where to Stay
Since you'll likely be up early, one of the most convenient places to stay is the new Home2 Suites by Hilton in Four Corners, a quick 15-minute drive from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and downtown Bozeman. It's also down the road from Bozeman Hot Springs, a lovely way to wind down after a day on the river.
For a more intimate stay, Gallatin River Lodge is also located between Belgrade and Four Corners. This popular lodge, nestled in the countryside, offers a quiet ambiance, exceptional dining, and a private casting pond.
If the nightlife is as important as the fishing, we suggest The Lark in downtown Bozeman. This contemporary hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, bars, live music, and shopping.
Hiring a Guide
Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting, hiring a guide is the best way to get the most out of your trip. Professional guides know the nuances of the rivers, including what flies are working best. You can't fish from a boat on the Gallatin, but the Madison, Jefferson, and Yellowstone rivers are the most fun to fish from a boat.
Fins and Feathers, located in Four Corners, offers guided trips across the region, so you'll have plenty of options based on the weather, time of year you are visiting, ability level, and length of trip. Together, you can plan your strategy!
If you've heard stories and want to explore the upper Madison River, we suggest Hooked Outfitting in Ennis, Montana. Their honed-in knowledge of this river will be helpful, particularly because it is one of the busier rivers. Ennis is an hour's drive from Bozeman and offers gorgeous views of rolling hills with the Tobacco Roots in the background.
If you're exploring independently, we suggest stocking up on gear and getting the latest fishing reports from Bozeman Fly Supply, Montana Angler Fly Fishing, and Montana Angling Co.
Day 1
Guided River Trip
If you're looking for one day with a guide, the first day would be optimum. Their knowledge of the area can be helpful in giving you tips specifically geared toward the time of year you are visiting. Lower Madison is an excellent option for spring or fall, but it gets too warm in the summer to fish ethically.
For the quintessential Montana fishing experience, try the Yellowstone River, which has healthy trout populations and a variety of water levels and flows. The Yellowstone River offers different fishing experiences in its many areas, but a guide is a must on this river. It takes an experienced oarsman to know its intricacies.
The upper Yellowstone, from Gardiner to Livingston, flows through what is known as Paradise Valley, and once you're there, you'll understand why. Sandwiched between the Gallatin and Absaroka-Beartooth Mountain Ranges, the towering peaks, heavy cottonwoods lining the bank, and acres of farmland surrounding you are breathtaking.
The lower Yellowstone, past Livingston, is equally gorgeous but different. Here, the river meanders more, surrounded by big bluffs and big skies. Both areas are great for fishing, and your guide will know which area is best at that time.
Day 2
Hyalite Canyon
Hyalite Canyon is a short 15 miles from Bozeman and is one of the most popular recreation areas in the state. This is a great area to explore independently since the access is easy and doesn't require a boat.
The drive up the canyon is a beautiful winding road full of color in the autumn. You can fish Hyalite Creek, which follows the canyon road and has numerous pull-outs and access points. It's a tight creek, full of fish, and fun to tackle (though not the big fat trout you may catch in more significant rivers.) You'll want to brush up on your roll cast for this one!
The reservoir is also good for fishing, with big trout living just under the surface. The top of the reservoir has some good wade fishing, or you can rent a canoe from Big Boys Toys and get out on the water. It's a no-wake lake, so you don't have to worry about motorboats, and you'll find this option quite peaceful and relaxing.
If you're a hiker and want more adventure, Emerald and Heather Lakes are located above the reservoir and hold Arctic Grayling and Cutthroat Trout, respectively. The lakes are five- and six-mile moderate hikes that pass several waterfalls along the way. Plan for 4-6 hours round trip for hiking and be sure to allow enough time for fishing!
Close to Town
We suggest building in some time for a shorter fishing excursion coupled with some in-town exploration. The Museum of the Rockies, a Smithsonian affiliate, has one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils. Brunch is a big deal in Bozeman, and you'll enjoy experiencing the local culture over a leisurely meal. Downtown shopping is full of unique boutiques and major brand stores.
There are a few options for fishing close to town. Cherry River Fishing Access on Frontage Road, just off North 7th Ave, is a short walk to the East Gallatin River. You'll have views of the Bridger Mountain Range, and the fish are fun to catch. Cameron Bridge, farther down on the East Gallatin, is another popular area for wade fishing. While it can be busy, a short walk up or downstream from the access will take you away from the crowds and into some great fishing.
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