Big Sky, Montana Fly Fishing
Big Sky sits about 45 minutes south of Bozeman along Highway 191 in the upper Gallatin Canyon. The Gallatin River follows the road the entire way, and Big Sky is a common stop for anglers traveling toward West Yellowstone, which is roughly 90 minutes from town.
Today, Big Sky is known as a year-round Montana vacation hub and a busy ski town in winter. In summer, the primary draw today is for golfing, hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The experienced angler can quickly access the Gallatin River for some DIY angling with Big Sky as a vacation base. Other regional fisheries are accessible with a drive time of around an hour when road conditions are good.
Exceptional Service
"I booked a trip with Fins and Feathers to do a 2-day, 2-boat float for me and 3 buddies. Booking the float was so easy."
- James T.
Explore Big Sky Montana Fly Fishing
Gallatin River
The Gallatin River starts in Yellowstone National Park and follows Highway 191 from West Yellowstone to Bozeman, giving anglers easy access the entire way. Big Sky sits right in the middle of this corridor, with the river only minutes from the meadow village. Smaller than other nearby rivers, the Gallatin is easier to wade and fishes well year-round. In summer, it’s a popular choice for anglers looking for just a few hours on the water within a short drive of Bozeman.
Upper Madison River
The Madison River originates in Yellowstone National Park and offers some of the best fly fishing in Montana. From Big Sky, it’s about a 60-minute drive to reach the productive upper river sections near Lyons Bridge, making it a possible day trip. Fast current, steady riffles, and open valley scenery make the Madisons River a top choice for both wade and float fly fishing during the peak season.
Stillwaters
Quake Lake and Hebgen Lake offer some of the best stillwater fly fishing in Montana, especially in late July and August. Hebgen is well known for its technical dry-fly fishing during the morning and evening rise, while Quake offers a mix of nymphing and streamer fishing along its edges and drop-offs. Both lakes provide a change of pace from the rivers during the dog days of summer.
Big Sky Montana and Area Resources
Big Sky Lodging
Big Sky Montana Fly Fishing Trips
Big Sky Montana Resturants and Bars
Big Sky Montana Fly Fishing Trips
Big Sky is a fantastic place to visit, especially for families seeking spectacular scenery, robust tourism infrastructure, and easy access to a variety of outdoor activities. Although there is some nice fly fishing nearby on the Gallatin River, other Montana fly fishing options in the region are generally an hour or two away by car.
Fins and Feathers Guide Service has been outfitting Montana fly fishing trips for over two decades. Guests typically drive to our Four Corners location - about an hour from Big Sky - to meet up with our Bozeman fly fishing guides at the start of each day. Alternatively, we meet our guests at predetermined riverside locations along the upper Madison River. Reservations and inquiries are available through email or call us at 1-406-468-5019.
Montana Fly Fishing Reports
Our fishing reports cover all the main rivers that anglers staying in Big Sky typically fish, including the Gallatin River, Upper Madison River, Yellowstone River, Jefferson River, and East Gallatin River.
The information comes directly from our Bozeman, MT. fly fishing guides who are on the water every day, so the updates stay current and useful. We keep track of flows, clarity, hatches, and general conditions to help anglers know what to expect before heading out. It’s a straightforward way to stay in tune with what’s happening around southwest Montana.
