Bozeman Fishing Reports
Date: 01/12/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
Fishing around the Bozeman area has been better than expected lately. There’s very little snow on the ground, access has been good, and most rivers remain open and fishable. Wind has been the biggest challenge across the region, but on calmer days fishing has been solid. Late morning through the afternoon has consistently been the best window to be on the water.
The Gallatin River continues to be a reliable option close to town. Nymphing has been producing the most consistent results, with standard attractor patterns and smaller nymphs working well. Streamers are worth mixing in at times, while dry fly activity has been limited to occasional midges on calmer stretches.
The Madison Rivers have both been fishing well. The Lower Madison River has been one of the better choices when the wind cooperates, offering good nymph fishing throughout the day and some streamer opportunities in the afternoon. The Upper Madison River has also been fishing consistently, especially during the warmer part of the day, with nymphing doing most of the work.
The Yellowstone River remains very fishable with minimal ice along the banks. Wind has been the biggest factor, but when conditions line up, both nymphs and streamers have been producing. Dry fly opportunities have been limited, though midges are still present at times.
For anglers willing to travel, the Missouri River and Bighorn River continue to offer dependable winter fishing, while Depuy’s Spring Creek has been more technical with limited dry fly activity. Overall, winter fishing around Bozeman has been solid. Picking your days carefully and focusing on the middle of the day has been the best approach.
Additional Resources:
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Recommended Flies
Pheasant Tail
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Juju Baetis
Olive Mini Dungeon
Skiddish Smolt
Prince Nymph
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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