Bozeman Fishing Reports
Date: 10/06/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
Cold nights and crisp days are keeping rivers around Bozeman in great shape as we move deeper into fall. Water temps are steady, and trout are feeding well through the middle of the day. Hatches are light but steady with BWOs and small mayflies showing up on cloudy afternoons. Browns are starting to stage for the spawn, and streamer fishing is improving with every cold front. With lighter crowds and stable conditions, it’s one of the better stretches of the season to be on the water around Bozeman.
Lower Madison River in October
The Lower Madison River is fishing steady right now. The river has cleared up nicely as weeds continue to fade, and cooler weather has trout feeding again in deeper runs and buckets. BWOs are starting to show on cloudy afternoons, and streamer fishing is picking up with the lower light and cooler days. Overall, the Lower Madison offers consistent fishing this time of year with less pressure and good variety.
Yellowstone River in October
The Yellowstone River is holding up well through October. Flows are stable and clarity is good across most of the river. Cooler weather has helped push some browns into pre-spawn patterns, making streamer fishing worth the effort. BWOs and small mayflies are also coming off during the afternoons, especially on cloudy days. The Yellowstone continues to offer solid fall fishing with fewer anglers around and a good mix of opportunities.
Gallatin River in October
The Gallatin River is fishing well right now. Clear water and steady flows are keeping trout active from the canyon into the Gallatin Valley. BWOs have been showing up in the afternoons, and nymphing remains reliable throughout the day. The river saw a small bump in flows after recent rain, but it’s already starting to settle back down. Cooler weather and less pressure make the Gallatin one of the better options close to town this week.
Additional Resources:
- Bozeman Fly Fishing in October
Recommended Flies
Skiddish Smolt
Parachute Adams
BWO Sparkle Dun
Juju Baetis
Olive Mini Dungeon
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Prince Nymph
Pheasant Tail
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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