Bozeman Fishing Reports
Date: 04/13/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Bozeman area is in a good place right now. You’ve got multiple fishable options, and most rivers are producing if you stay on the right water.
The Gallatin is a solid choice. Fish are still holding in the buckets, but they’re starting to spread out more. Nymphing with pat’s rubberlegs and perdigons has been the most consistent, and there are a few caddis starting to show higher in the canyon.
The Lower Madison has been fishing well. Fish are in the deeper runs and feeding consistently. Clouser crays, zirdles, and dead drift crays paired with smaller attractors underneath have been producing. You might see a few bugs in the afternoons, but it’s still mostly a nymphing game.
The Upper Madison is a good option, especially from Varney down. Fish are holding in the deeper buckets and longer runs. Smaller natural nymphs like zebra midges, baetis patterns, and pheasant tails have been getting it done. There are some BWOs around, but dry fly windows are still limited.
The Yellowstone is fishable below Livingston and producing. Focus on slower water and inside bends. Nymphing has been the most consistent, with streamer fishing worth mixing in with a little color in the river.
If you’re staying around Bozeman, plan on nymphing as your baseline. Most of the fish are still down, and getting your flies to the right depth has been the difference.
Additional Resources:
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In April
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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