Bozeman Fishing Reports
Date: 05/16/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
Water conditions around Bozeman have improved over the last two days, despite the heavy rains in the area. Cold temperatures have helped out and are setting us up for a nice weekend.
Lower Madison Fishing Report Summary
The Lower Madison has dropped nicely and is the best option, near Bozeman, for the time being, as flows have dropped quickly, dramatically improving water clarity. Nymphing or streamer fishing is the way to go for the most consistent activity. We are fishing copper zonkers and crayfish patterns as our top flies and small Perdigons as our droppers - the Rainbow Warrior.
Upper Madison River Fishing Report
The Upper Madison has been really solid, but the impacts of runoff are starting to show up in the Madison Valley as the West Fork and various smaller streams are finally puking mud into he river. The flow remains fishable, but the dirty water is not too inspiring! There is a window of fishable water between the West Fork and Raynold's Pass, as well as the upper section of the river, "between the lakes"
Watch the weather and check the streamflow stations before heading out the next few weeks as you plan your next Bozeman fly fishing outing. Runoff season is fast-approaching, so enjoy this week or two of pre-runoff madness!
Additional Resources:
Recommended Flies
Olive Clouser Crayfish
Iron Sally
PMD Jigster
Pink Lite Brite Perdigon
Black Lite Brite Perdigon
Hare's Ear Guides Choice
Orange Psycho Prince Jig
Peacock Elk Hair Caddis
Bozeman Fly Fishing
Bozeman is centrally located for convenient access to the best fly fishing in Montana on the Yellowstone, Madison, Gallatin, and Jefferson Rivers. Myriad small streams, mid-sized rivers, and reservoirs provide "off-the-beaten-path" opportunities for the adventurous angler fishing near Bozeman MT.
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.
Additional Bozeman Fly Fishing Resources
Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Trips
Post Date: 03/29/2025
The Bozeman fly fishing options are among the best in the US with legendary wild trout rivers like the Madison, Yellowstone, Gallatin, Jefferson, and Missouri each within easy striking distance...
Learn MoreMontana River Shuttles
Post Date: 03/29/2025
River shuttle services are an integral part of the Montana fly fishing scene as floating these legendary western rivers is the standard way to fish and experience them. Be sure...
Learn MoreMontana Fly Fishing Trip Photo Galleries
Post Date: 03/29/2025
Get a glimpse into a day of guided fly fishing in Montana from the viewpoint of the guides and guests with Bozeman fly fishing outfitter, Fins and Feathers Guide Service...
Learn MoreBozeman Fly Fishing Area Map
Related Articles From The Montana Fly Fishing Blog
Category: The Best Fly Fishing
Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide To May
Post Date: 04/26/2025
Expect ever-changing conditions, unpredictable weather, and some incredible dry fly fishing during the Mother's Day caddis hatch when it all comes together, just right for the anglers fly fishing in...
Read Article