Jefferson River Fishing Report
Date: 04/17/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The weather is looking a bit better on the Jefferson River than some of our closer options. That being said, the river is very dirty and fishing has been tough. If you find yourself in the area Nymph fishing will be your best bet to get some fish to hand. The streamer bite has been slow but it's always worth a shot to try and find a big one.
For your nymph rig try fishing a large red Worm, Stonefly Nymph, or a Crawfish as the lead fly. Below that flashy Perdigons, Red Copper John, and Zebra Midges have been the way to go. Focus your fishing on the deep slow moving water and add some split shot about a foot above the lead fly. The streamer game has been slow but it's worth a shot slow stripping black streamers close to the bottom.
Recommended Flies
Red San Juan Worm
Olive Micro May
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Olive Mini Dungeon
Jefferson River Fishing
The Jefferson River is a unique Montana fly fishing destination. It runs for around 80 miles, surrounded by the rugged landscapes of the Tobacco Root and Highland Mountain Ranges.
Formed where the Ruby, Big Hole, and Beaverhead Rivers converge, it meets the Madison and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri River near Three Forks, Montana.
Fishing conditions vary from year to year based on winter snowpack and summer moisture, but it offers solitude and the opportunity to catch big fish. Ideally suited for floating, the Jefferson River has low trout populations. Advanced anglers who are willing to work for a few good trout will enjoy fishing the Jefferson.
Our "Jefferson River Fishing Guide" is a comprehensive introduction to fly fishing in Montana on the Jefferson River from the Bozeman fly fishing guides with Fins and Feathers.
Additional Jefferson River Fly Fishing Resources
Jefferson River Guided Fly Fishing Trips
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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...
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