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Jefferson River Fishing Report

Date: 10/25/2025
Posted by: Toby Swank

Current Conditions

The Jefferson River has been a good option for more remote water. With lower flows and fall setting in, there isn't a whole lot going on. Not to say the river isn't still a great option for a day on the water, this is the time of year to find some nicer fish on the Jeff, but it isn't a numbers game.

Nymphing with zirdles, zonkers, and other stonefly or crayfish patterns have been solid lead flies, followed by smaller droppers like perdigons, prince nymphs, or zebra midges. Fishing these setups through deeper buckets and slower seams has been the most productive approach.

Streamer fishing has been day to day, but it is still a good option if you are looking to move bigger fish. fishing patterns that are lighter with natural profiles, sculpzillas, sex dungeons, and patterns like the dirty hippie are all good choices.

Overall, the Jefferson River is in great shape. Nymphing remains the most consistent, streamer fishing continues to produce, and dry fly opportunities are starting to make an appearance. It’s a great time to be out on the Jeff.

Additional Resources:

- Bozeman Fly Fishing in October

- 7 Tips for Streamer Fishing around Bozeman

Recommended Flies

				  A large baitfish imitation that catches big Montana trout.

Olive Mini Peanut Envy

				  Dead Drift Crayfish Haddon Brn

Dead Drift Crayfish

				  Montana fly fishing staple for many conditions when imitating Mayflies.

Gold Lightning Bug

				  Zonkers are a top 5 fly pattern for lower Madison River fishing in dirty water.

White Zonker

				  Catch trout fly fishing in Montana using this Mayfly nymph.

Butano Lite Brite Perdigon

				  The zirdle is a classic crayfish imitation used throughout Montana fly fishing rivers.

Jig Zirdle

				  All around mayfly pattern for fly fishing Montana.

Rainbow Warrior Jig

				  San Juan Worm in red is a standard Montana fly fishing pattern for dirty water conditions.

Red San Juan Worm

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.

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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A Jefferson River fly fishing trip is ideal for experienced anglers' on a multi-day Bozeman fly fishing trip itinerary. This scenic Montana river is one of the "quieter" ones in...

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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...

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Montana 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...

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Jefferson River Fly Fishing Area Map



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