Gallatin River Fishing Report
Date: 05/13/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Gallatin River is consistently rising and is now in runoff. Flows have continued to rise with the warmer weather, and most of the river is high and off color.
Fishing has become difficult throughout much of the system. Fish are pushed tight to the banks and into the slowest water they can find.
For anglers still looking to get out, heavier nymph rigs are going to be the best option. Worm patterns, rubberlegs, and larger attractor-style nymphs fished deep along the banks have been the most productive setup. It’s not about covering water right now. Slowing down and fishing softer water thoroughly has been the difference.
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 river.
The Gallatin is changing quickly day to day. Unless temperatures cool off significantly, expect flows 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
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
Post Date: 03/29/2025
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
Related Articles From The Montana Fly Fishing Blog
Category: Tips on Flyfishing Montana Rivers
Floating and Fly Fishing the Gallatin River
Post Date: 04/06/2024
Fly fishing the Gallatin River while floating is permitted between Manhattan and Three Forks, Montana. This scenic waterway has limited public access with sparse trout populations, yet offers a nice...
Read Article
