Gallatin River Fishing Report
Date: 05/27/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Gallatin River is currently experiencing spring runoff, resulting in more challenging conditions throughout its course. Flows have increased and are fluctuating with daily temperatures, currently around 2100 CFS at Gallatin Gateway and headed up. The river is in runoff mode and is really not a great option for the time being.
Nymphing is the most reliable method at this time. Anglers can find success with larger stonefly imitations such as Pat’s Rubberlegs (#8–10) combined with smaller trailing flies like Pheasant Tails, San Juan Worms, or Caddis larvae. Using lots of weight for quick descent is crucial, and targeting slower seams near the banks or inside turns will be most effective, as trout seek respite from the swift current.
Safety precautions are crucial during this period, as high flows can change rapidly with the onset of warm weather. Anglers should wade cautiously and avoid crossing the river in swift current zones.
You can get an idea of the water conditions in the Big Sky area by viewing this webcam, hosted by our friends at Montana Whitewater.
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Red San Juan Worm
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Black BH Crystal Bugger
Brown Pat's Rubberleg
King Prince
Sparkle Minnow
Gold/Silver/Copper Kreelex
Olive Mini Peanut Envy
Gallatin River Fishing
The Gallatin River starts small in YNP and becomes a medium-sized western river below Big Sky, Montana. It flows through Gallatin Canyon with swift pockets and fast runs. The river is known for its clean, cold water and offers over 75 miles of blue-ribbon trout water accessible at turnouts along HWY 191 and throughout the Gallatin Valley. The Gallatin River joins the Jefferson and Madison Rivers to form the Missouri River near Three Forks, Montana.
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
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
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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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