Gallatin River Fishing Report
Date: 05/15/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Gallatin River is high and dirty right now and firmly in runoff conditions. Flows have continued to rise with the warmer weather, and most sections of the river have very limited visibility.
Fishing is difficult and most fish are pushed tight to the banks and into the slowest water available. Softer seams, inside bends, and flooded edges are really the only places worth spending time.
Heavier nymph rigs are the best option right now. Worm patterns, rubberlegs, and larger attractor-style flies fished deep along the banks have been the most productive setup. It’s more about slowing down and thoroughly fishing softer water than covering ground.
Dry fly fishing is pretty much off the table with the current conditions, and streamer fishing has been inconsistent with the amount of water moving through the system.
Unless temperatures cool off significantly, expect the Gallatin to keep rising as runoff continues to build.
Addtional Gallatin River Fly Fishing Resources:
- Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide To May
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Pheasant Tail
Brown Pat's Rubberleg
Amber Jiggy Caddis Pupa
Purple Lite Brite Perdigon
Prince Nymph
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Purple Psycho Prince
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Gallatin River Fishing
Read our "Gallatin River Fishing Guide" to learn more about fly fishing in Montana on the Gallatin River. It is a great resource for anglers fishing near Bozeman Montana and details the various river stretches and seasonal hatches with tips from our Bozeman fly fishing guides.
Additional Gallatin River Fly Fishing Resources
Montana River Shuttles
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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
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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 MoreGallatin River Guided Fly Fishing Trips
Post Date: 03/29/2025
Montana fly fishing trips on the Gallatin River with the team at Fins and Feathers Guide Service includes wading the canyon sections south of Bozeman and floating the lower river...
Learn MoreGallatin River Fly Fishing Area Map
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