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Gallatin River Fly Fishing

Blue Ribbon Fly Fishing on Bozeman’s Favorite River

Gallatin River Fly Fishing Trips

Gallatin River fly fishing trips with our Montana fly fishing guides offer anglers a unique combination of both float and wade fly fishing on one of Montana’s iconic rivers. The Gallatin is a smaller, more intimate river, than many of the surrounding waters. Originating high up in the Gallatin Range, the Gallatin River winds its way through Yellowstone National Park, on through the towns of Big Sky and Bozeman on its way to Three Forks where it joins the Madison and Jefferson Rivers to create the Missouri River.

We offer both float and wade fly fishing trips on the Gallatin River. Our fly fishing guides are all experienced professionals that have the knowledge, patience, and commitment to teaching to make your trip a success. The Gallatin River is one of the most scenic rivers in the state and offers great access all along its length. We use specialized rafts with fly fishing frames to float the Gallatin River through the Gallatin Valley and drift boats on the lower stretch of the river. Gallatin River fly fishing trips are great for anglers of all skill levels.

Gallatin River Fly Fishing

The Gallatin River runs right on the outskirts of Bozeman, MT and our fly fishing guides consider it our backyard. We know these waters well. The Gallatin offers anglers consistent fly fishing for wild rainbow and brown trout from early spring through late fall.

There is great access for wade fishing anglers along Highway 191 as the river courses through Yellowstone National Park and the Gallatin Canyon through Big Sky, MT. This stretch can be characterized as high alpine meadows that transitions to steep canyon whitewater. Below the Gallatin Canyon the river calms down as it courses through open farmland closer to Bozeman, Montana.

Dry fly fishing with stoneflies, caddisflies, and terrestrials can be effective throughout the summer months and nymphing is effective year-round. The streamer fly fishing can be excellent on the lower reaches of the Gallatin River and is a great place to hunt for larger brown trout. What the Gallatin River trout lack for in average size, they more than make up for with spunk and their willingness to rise to a dry fly.

The Gallatin is known to many as the “A River Runs Through it” river as many of the scenes from the classic movie were filmed along its scenic banks. The Gallatin River’s proximity to Big Sky, Montana make it a great winter fly fishing option in between ski days at Big Sky Ski Resort. The swift currents keep the water open to fly fishing except during the coldest of spells.

Book Your Next Montana Fly Fishing Trip

Plan Your Trip

Prime Season:

April 1- April 30 and July 1-September 15

Notable Hatches:

Spruce Moths (August); Salmonflies and Golden Stones (July 1-July15); Summer Caddis (July 1-August 15); Terrestrials (August 1-September 15)

Nearby Towns:

Bozeman, MT; Big Sky, MT; West Yellowstone, MT; Livingston, MT; Ennis, MT

Nearby Rivers:

Madison River, Yellowstone River, Jefferson River, Yellowstone National Park, Boulder River, Stillwater River

Trip Offerings

    What Our Clients Say

     ★★★★★

    My wife and I had a wonderful experience fishing with Montana Angling Company. Max was able to teach my wife to fly fish from scratch and she caught 5-10 really nice 18-20” fish her first time! He was very patient and knowledgeable. Thank you for such an amazing day! I would highly recommend from beginners to advanced fly fishermen and women.

     

    - Cooper M.

    What Our Clients Say

     ★★★★★

    Max is the perfect guide and teacher. My wife and I are newly retired and wanted to try fly fishing for the first time. We learned tons and caught lots of trout float and wade fishing. Can't wait to come back for our sophomore course. Thanks Max and Peter.

    - Cliff B.

    What Our Clients Say

     ★★★★★

    I've been guided by Max and his guides on the Yellowstone, Madison, and Missouri rivers and have had a blast every time. Their guides are knowledgeable, respectful, and patient--even when I tangle my line. The Montana Angling Co is a great choice whether it's your first time fly fishing or you're a seasoned pro--these guys know where the fish are and what they're hungry for.

    - Maggie O.

    What Our Clients Say

     ★★★★★

    Max’s professional demeanor, unmatched knowledge of fly fishing, and top rate gear combine to make any guided trip with him a special experience. Regardless of your ability or experience, you will not only catch fish, but you will have an excellent time as well.

    - Josh W.

    What Our Clients Say

     ★★★★★

    I have fished with guides across the United States and South America, and can say with confidence that Max's patience, passion, and knowledge of fishing are second to none. Whether you are an expert angler or fishing for the first time, Max is the guy you want to have in your boat.

    - Wesley R.

    What Our Clients Say

     ★★★★★

    We had an awesome experience with Montana Angling Co. Max worked with us to make sure we had the perfect day to go fishing. Our guide was Guy Flynn, and he was great. He was very patient with us and we enjoyed the conversation. He was putting us on fish all day long. Overall, we had a great experience, and I will definitely use Max's company again on our next trip to Montana.

    - Bryan L.

    Don't Wait, Book Your Fly Fishing Trip Today!