Gallatin River Fishing Report
Date: 11/17/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Gallatin River has been fishing nicely this week, especially once things warm up through the late morning and afternoon. The water is clear, and with light pressure this time of year, both the Gallatin Canyon and Gallatin Valley stretches are great to to fish before winter sets in.
Nymphing with Rubberlegs and smaller stonefly attractors, as the lead fly, followed by zebra midges, prince nymphs, and pheasant tails for droppers. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X is a solid choice for leader, then using 4x fluorocarbon from the lead fly to the dropper.
Streamer fishing has also been productive, especially during cloudy afternoons. Smaller sculpin and baitfish patterns like mini dungeons, sparkle minnows, and goldies in olive, tan, or black have been turning fish when worked through deeper runs or near structure. A shorter 5- to 6-foot leader of heavier fluorocarbon (1X or 0X) provides better turnover for these heavier flies.
There are still a few dry-fly opportunities around. Blue-winged olives and midges are hatching on calm, overcast afternoons, and the occasional trout has been rising in the slower sections and side channels. Carry a few small parachutes or emergers in sizes 18–20 in case you run into rising fish.
The Gallatin remains one of the most dependable options near Bozeman this time of year. Focus on the warmer hours of the day, fish low and steady with nymphs, and mix in streamers when clouds move through. It’s quiet, consistent fishing before winter takes over the canyon.
Addtional Gallatin River Fly Fishing Resources:
- Guide to Fly Fishing in Bozeman
- Bozeman Fly Fishing In November
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Olive Mini Peanut Envy
Purple Lite Brite Perdigon
Black Zebra Midge
Brown Pat's Rubberleg
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Sparkle Minnow
BWO Sparkle Dun
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
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