East Gallatin River Fly Fishing in September

East Gallatin River Fly Fishing in September

Fall rejuvenates resident trout in small rivers like the East Gallatin as water temperatures drop and irrigation demands decrease. Brown trout become active with pre-spawn rituals, creating streamer fly fishing opportunities in the lower river stretches near Manhattan, Montana.

Overcast days see blanket hatches of blue-winged olive (BWO) and Pseudocleon mayflies once September rolls into Bozeman. Afternoon dry fly fishing on the East Gallatin is a Bozeman angler’s passion once the summer crowds disperse.

East Gallatin River Fly Fishing Hatches in September

Cool, cloudy days bring BWO emergences throughout the East Gallatin River. Gallatin Valley spring creeks improve the water quality below Dry Creek, making these stretches the premier dry fly sections.

East Gallatin River Fly Fishing Techniques in September

Streamer fly fishing starts to heat up with the arrival of cool weather as the fall Montana fly fishing season gets going. Nymph fishing with standard tandem fly rigs is also productive in the deeper runs and below riffles.

Dry fly fishing can be exceptional and less technical than during the heat of summer. Mid-day BWO hatches bring pods of rising trout to the surface in the deep tailouts.

Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Pro Tip:

Floating the East Gallatin River is always a dicey proposition as the stream bed is littered with fallen trees and debris. However, a skilled oarsman in a small raft can safely navigate the lower East Gallatin River. Advanced anglers can access remote stretches of the river and might find a few trophy brown trout on streamers.

East Gallatin River Fly Box for September