Bozeman Fishing Reports
Date: 10/30/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
Late October has brought stable conditions and light angling pressure across the Bozeman area. Clear water and mild daytime temps are keeping all our rivers in shape, and the mix of clouds and sun through the week has made for steady mid-day fishing windows. With fall settling in, this is one of the most enjoyable stretches of the season to be on the water.
Gallatin River
The Gallatin is fishing consistently through the canyon and into the valley. Nymphing remains the most productive tactic—rubberlegs or wire worms up front with zebra midges, perdigons, or lightning bugs trailing behind. Streamers are starting to move fish in the lower stretches, with olive or black mini dungeons producing when light conditions soften.
Upper Madison River
The Upper Madison near Ennis continues to fish well. Trout are holding in deeper water and feeding throughout the day. Larger stonefly and worm patterns followed by small droppers are dependable setups. Streamer fishing is solid with goldies, sculpzillas, and sparkle minnows in natural tones turning fish during low-light hours.
Lower Madison River
The Lower Madison remains a reliable option with clear water and active fish. Nymphing has been the most consistent approach—zirdles, worms, and small crayfish patterns paired with midges or pill poppers have been productive. Streamers are gaining traction, and BWOs are appearing on calm afternoons with occasional surface activity.
Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone continues to offer good late-fall fishing from the valley through Livingston. Nymphing is the main focus with stonefly and attractor patterns leading, followed by midges or small beadheads. Streamers in olive, tan, or black have produced during cloudy stretches, and light BWO hatches are bringing a few fish up in the afternoons.
Additional Resources:
- Bozeman Fly Fishing in October
Recommended Flies
Skiddish Smolt
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Parachute Adams
Olive Mini Dungeon
BWO Sparkle Dun
Juju Baetis
Pheasant Tail
Prince Nymph
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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