Bozeman Fishing Reports
Date: 07/13/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
Fishing around Bozeman is still in great shape, but summer has definitely settled in. The hot weather isn't going anywhere this week, so getting on the water early is becoming more important every day. Sunrise has been around 5:30 to 6:00 a.m., which leaves plenty of time to get a few good hours of fishing in before the heat and recreational traffic start to build.
The Gallatin continues to be one of the better options around Bozeman. The cooler water through the canyon has kept the fishing consistent, and dry-dropper rigs have been producing fish throughout the day. The Upper Madison has also been fishing well, with caddis making up most of the hatch activity and plenty of fish willing to eat on top. The Yellowstone remains a great choice too, especially for anglers looking to fish dries, but expect plenty of rafts and recreational floaters from Paradise Valley through Livingston once the afternoon rolls around.
The Lower Madison is now under hoot owl restrictions, with fishing prohibited after 2:00 p.m. from Warm Springs to the Headwaters. If you're planning to fish any of Montana's freestone rivers this summer, it's a good idea to check current hoot owl restrictions before heading out. With another stretch of hot weather in the forecast, there's a good chance more rivers could see restrictions if water temperatures continue to climb.
For now, the best plan is a simple one. Get on the water early, be wrapped up before the hottest part of the day, and leave the afternoon to the floaters. The fishing has been good, and with a little planning there's still plenty of opportunity to have a great day on the water.
Additional Resources:
- The Best Bozeman Fly Fishing in July
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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