Current Conditions:
The Gallatin River near Bozeman and Big Sky is on the rise and most likely is going to be off the menu for the time being--with forecasted temps in the 70s in the area, snowmelt runoff has started on the Gallatin as well as the Yellowstone River. If you do plan to fish the Gallatin River, be sure to target the soft water with worms and big stonefly nymphs...and wade safely when the water is dirty. The water above the Taylor Fork has better clarity so you can consider that area if you must fish the Gallatin River. If we get a cold snap and flows drop for a day or two the nymphing can be awesome.
The Month Ahead:
The Gallatin will be off and on in run off mode for a few more weeks. Other fisheries could be better but once flows are on the drop the nymphing picks up right away even if there is just a foot of visibility. Cold snaps can also suspend run off for a day or two and provide fishable windows.
Long Term Fishing Forecast:
The Gallatin should fish well all summer once run off ends – probably mid to late June this season just in time for salmonflies!
Visit Our Shop for These Top Gallatin River Flies Right Now:
Brown, olive, black, or tan Zurdle in size 8-12
Para Adams in size 12-22
Pat's Rubberlegs in coffee/black in size 6-10
BH Pheasant Tail in size 12-16
Beaded SJ Wormies in size 10
BH Prince in size 12-16
Looking for More Great Content?
7 Great Trout Fisheries Within 30 Minutes of Bozeman
Montana Weather: Month by Month Guide for Fly Fishing
6 Guide Secrets to Catch More Trout
The Best 7 Tips for Walk-and-Wade Fishing
5 Tips to Find More Trout When Sight Fishing
5 Great Fishing Days out of Bozeman Montana
Tips for Fishing in Montana During Runoff
What to Consider When Planning a Montana Fly Fishing Trip
Introducing the Montana Angler Rent-a-Labrador Retriever Program
5 Great Fishing Days in Montana's Yellowstone River Valley