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Jefferson River Fishing Report

Date: 05/13/2025
Posted by: Toby Swank

Current Conditions

Flows are on their way up on the Jefferson River and has officially been blown out the last few days. This one is likely gone for a few weeks but worth watching the next few days with the arrival of more cool weather for a potential window of fishable high water. Our best guess, however, is that it will be at least a few weeks before we are back on this river.

Recommended Flies

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

Red San Juan Worm

				  Streamer fly fishing in Montana with Mini Dungeons is productive throughout the state.

Olive Mini Dungeon

				  18 3540 w 2

White Peanut Envy

				  Brown Yellow Barely Legal

Brown/Yellow Barely Legal

				  Parachute Hares ear

Parachute Hare's Ear

				  Rogue Foam Stone Schlotter Skwala

Rogue River Skwala

				  Guides Choice Hares Ear TNG Olsen G Bd Nat

Hare's Ear Guides Choice

				  Montana fly fishing staple for many conditions when imitating Mayflies.

Gold Lightning Bug

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

Post Date: 03/29/2025

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...

Learn More

Jefferson River Fly Fishing Area Map



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