Gallatin River Fly Fishing in September
In autumn, crowds dwindle, water temperatures drop, and flows increase once summer irrigation comes to an end. The river feels renewed, and trout sense the seasonal shift.
The Gallatin Canyon and Gallatin Gateway stretches offer ample public access, and low flows make the river easy to navigate on foot. Expect wary fish near the banks and in obvious lies.
Gallatin River Fly Fishing Hatches in September
Blue-winged olive and midge hatches return to the Gallatin as the air and water cool with the longer nights of early autumn. Tiny Pseudocleon mayflies will be plentiful on warm days. Anglers occasionally encounter hatches of western red quill mayflies in the canyon. Large mayflies like Hecuba, yellow drakes, and Ephron hatch in sparse and sporadic numbers through the lower stretches.
Although insects are hatching in September, dry fly fishing tends to be inconsistent. This river’s rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout seem to prefer the nymphs this time of year.
Gallatin River Fly Fishing Techniques for September
Streamer fishing on the Gallatin River peaks in September and October. Overcast, cool days bring idyllic conditions to target the large brown trout of the Lower Gallatin River.
Nymphing with tandem fly rigs in the Gallatin Valley and canyon stretches consistently produces trout in the deeper runs.
River flows are low, and the water runs clear, especially in the stretches above Gallatin Gateway. Fish a long leader, fine tippet, and small flies for better success. Employ a tactical, measured approach to the river, and make accurate presentations with minimal false casts.
Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Pro-Tip:
September is one of the best months for finding trophy brown trout as they prepare for their spawn in late fall. The prime water for larger trout on the Gallatin flows between Williams Bridge Fishing Access Site and Four Corners Fishing Access Site near Belgrade. Cover a lot of water by stripping streamers like Zonkers, Wooly Buggers, and Peanut Envies in white, olive, and black near the banks, and hold on.
Gallatin River Fly Box for September
Gallatin River Guided Fly Fishing in September
The Gallatin River becomes fickle in September and fishes less consistently as the month progresses.
With over 23 years of experience outfitting on the Gallatin River, our experts have learned to pay close attention to water levels and temperatures as the seasons change. We typically float the Gallatin River through mid-September, turning our attention fully to the other rivers near Bozeman for the remainder of the season.
Gallatin River fishing day trips with Fins and Feathers Guide Service in Bozeman can be booked online, via e-mail, or by calling us at 1-406-468-5019. Contact Us for questions regarding our Montana fly fishing options.