Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Gus Prissel

Gus grew up immersed in the fly fishing industry. His dad and uncles worked for over 70 years on blue-ribbon trout rivers in Southeast Idaho, where they taught Gus to fish. Gus followed in their footsteps, working in fly shops since he was 15 and guiding as soon as he turned 18. His love for fishing and the outdoors took him to Montana State University (Go Cats) where he studies education and, more realistically, the lakes, rivers, and creeks East of the Rocky Mountain divide.

Gus understands that much of guiding exists beyond just the fishing, and tries to create a unique experience for everyone on his boat. However, the fishing is integral, and Gus’ skill set allows him to work with everyone, beginners and experts alike. You can trust that Gus will bring a good attitude, knowledge of the rivers, and local knowledge to make your fly fishing trip to Bozeman the best it can be.

Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide FAQ's

What's your favorite summertime hatch to fly fishing near Bozeman?

I can not pick one hatch to confidently be my favorite. I really do love whatever hatch is fishing the best at the time! Whether that be Brown Drakes on the Lower Madison, Salmonflies on the Upper Madison/Gallatin, mid-summer PMD's on the Yellowstone, or hoppers anywhere in the late summer, I love chasing hatches and dry fly eaters around the Bozeman area

Is there one tip that you find yourself giving clients time and time again during the day?

"One tip I find helpful when fishing this rod, or really any I guess, is let the rod do the work for you. As much as it can seem tempting to try and do something really cool with your wrist and shoulder at the same time to manifest the perfect cast, it really is best to save your muscles for fighting fish and let the rod do all the casting work for you."

What fly rod configuration do you prefer for our Bozeman fly fishing waters?

"Because of the diverse ways in which we can fish around the Bozeman area when I am fishing from the boat, the best rod I have found is the nine foot six weight. This rod allows me to be able to present dry flies when necessary, but also keeps me prepared to fish hopper droppers, nymphs, and streamers, all of which the conditions may call for on a day fishing in the Bozeman area. This rod is great for beginners as it has the backbone to support learning to cast, and also for more experienced anglers as it provides all the tools necessary to make any cast needed."

Can you pick one section of a river near Bozeman that is your favorite?

Picking one section of river to be my favorite would be difficult. It may be cliche, but my favorite section is whatever is fishing the best. However, any section in the Paradise Valley or the Madison Valley will always hold a special place in my heart because of the scenic views you are immersed in for your whole day of fishing.

Dries, nymphs or streamer fly fishing...which is your favorite?

Dry fly fishing will always be my preferred method of fishing. When people dream about coming to Bozeman and fly fishing, I think it often includes a dry fly eat, and I love to try to provide that experience to anyone in my boat. However, the fish will not always cooperate, and when streamers or nymphs are the better option, those are a blast as well.

Additional Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Trip Resources

From the Montana Fly Fishing Blog