East Gallatin River Fly Fishing in June
Stream flows drop quickly on the East Gallatin River in June as the runoff slows with the approach of summer. As water clarity improves and flows stabilize, trout begin to settle into their summer runs.
High flows routinely change streambed every spring, so expect to find new runs and channels as water levels return to normal.
East Gallatin River Fly Fishing Hatches in June
Caddis and pale morning dun (PMD) hatches are the mainstay for rising trout on the East Gallatin during the early summer.
Consistent evening rises in the deep tailouts and along riffle edges keep dry fly anglers busy during the twilight hours through June.
Midday PMD hatches can bring some of the larger trout to the surface below riffles throughout the entire river.
East Gallatin River Fly Fishing Techniques in June
Nymphing with tandem fly rigs under a strike indicator is the most effective fly fishing method throughout June. Added weight and heavy flies with tungsten beads are needed early in the month. Use Woolly Buggers, leeches, and San Juan Worm variations while the water is off-color.
As the water clears, dry fly fishing will improve with PMD hatches offering classic “match the hatch” style dry fly fishing. Trout will rise throughout the river during peak hatch activity. Look for fish feeding along seams and in the riffles for the best success.
Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Pro-Tip:
Trophy brown trout can be found in the middle and lower stretches of the East Gallatin River during the early summer. Finding these fish slowly rising in a seam lined with PMD spent spinners is every dry fly angler’s dream, but move slowly and present accurately. These fish are big for a reason and spook easily; you’ll need your A-game to hook one.
Bring your favorite 8 ½-foot 4-weight dry fly rod for delicate presentations. The Sage TROUT LL or Winston AIR 2 are a couple of our guide’s favorite fly rods for technical dry fly sessions.
East Gallatin River Fly Box for June
Bozeman Montana Fly Fishing Trips in June
Fly fishing in Montana improves dramatically in June as river levels stabilize and water clarity improves. The Bozeman fly fishing guides at Fins and Feathers Guide Service focus on the Upper Madison and Yellowstone Rivers in June as the salmonfly hatch begins towards the latter part of the month.
East Gallatin River fly fishing trips become viable for short-day trips in late June. These trips are best suited for single anglers with advanced fly-fishing skills. Wading conditions can be challenging, as the streambed has heavy sediment buildup, making walking difficult in some places. Anglers fishing the East Gallatin should be able to confidently wade through a variety of water types and expect to walk 2-3 miles during the day.
Bozeman Montana fly fishing trips can be secured online, via e-mail, or by calling the Fins and Feathers Guide Service team at 1-406-468-5019.