The Gallatin River continues to offer solid fall fishing across both the canyon and valley stretches. Clear water and mild daytime conditions have kept the river in great shape, and fish remain active through much of the day.
Nymphing has been the most consistent. Rubberlegs, wire worms, and small jig nymphs have been dependable lead patterns, paired with zebra midges, perdigons, or lightning bugs as droppers. Most trout are feeding mid-depth, and subtle adjustments to weight are making a noticeable difference.
Streamer fishing has been good as well, particularly in the lower river. Mini dungeons, sparkle minnows, and other small sculpin-style flies in olive or black have been turning fish when the light drops. A slower retrieve continues to be the best bet.
Blue-winged olives are becoming more consistent as the season winds down. Calm, cloudy afternoons have brought light surface activity, and carrying a few small emergers or parachutes is worthwhile for short windows of rising fish.
The Gallatin remains a reliable choice for anglers this week. Nymphing is steady, streamers are producing under the right conditions, and the BWO hatch is starting to create more dry-fly potential as October wraps up.
Addtional Gallatin River Fly Fishing Resources:
- Guide to Fly Fishing in Bozeman
- Bozeman Fly Fishing in October
BWO Sparkle Dun
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Purple Lite Brite Perdigon
Sparkle Minnow
Brown Pat's Rubberleg
Olive Mini Peanut Envy
Purple Blowtorch
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.
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