Bozeman Fishing Reports
Date: 11/04/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
Fishing around Bozeman has been good lately, and November is shaping up to be a good month to spend some time on the water. The colder nights have made for slower mornings, so getting out around late morning and fishing through the afternoon has been a good approach. There is still plenty of fishing to be had, but trout are beginning to settle into their winter holding water as temperatures continue to drop.
The Gallatin River has been fishing well, particularly through the canyon. Nymphing the longer, deeper runs has been producing fish, with smaller baetis nymphs, midges, and rubberlegs all worth having. On cloudy days, keep an eye out for afternoon BWO and midge activity.
The Lower Madison continues to be one of the better options around Bozeman. Crayfish patterns and smaller nymphs have been producing consistently, while streamer fishing has also been worth the effort on overcast days. Fish are beginning to favor deeper buckets as water temperatures drop, making late morning and afternoon a good time to focus on the river.
The Yellowstone is also fishing well, with nymphing providing the most consistent action around Livingston and Paradise Valley. Smaller mayfly nymphs and larger stonefly patterns are good options, while blue-winged olives are still bringing fish to the surface during afternoon hatches. Streamer fishing is another good option for anglers looking to target larger brown trout.
As we move farther into November, brown trout should be actively spawning throughout many of our local rivers. Anglers should watch for redds, particularly in shallow gravel areas and along the tailouts of runs. Avoid walking through spawning areas or fishing directly to fish that are actively spawning.
Additional Resources:
- Fly Fishing Bozeman in November
Recommended Flies
Prince Nymph
Pheasant Tail
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Juju Baetis
Olive Mini Dungeon
Skiddish Smolt
Parachute Adams
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Bozeman Fly Fishing
A year-round trout fishing destination, the Bozeman MT fly fishing options are endless. Learn more about fly fishing in Montana on our blue-ribbon waters in our "Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide" online.
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