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Jefferson River Fly Fishing

Authentic Montana Fly Fishing

Jefferson River Fly Fishing Trips

Fly fishing the Jefferson River with our Montana fly fishing guides is a truly authentic Montana fly fishing experience on one of Montana’s great freestone rivers. The Jefferson River forms at the confluence of the Beaverhead River and the Big Hole River at Twin Bridges, Montana. The country it runs through is rough and rugged like the river itself.

Our guides use drift boats to fish the Jefferson River. Float fly fishing is the most effective way to fish the Jefferson River, although wade fly fishing opportunities exist on every float. Unfortunately for anglers, the Jefferson and its wild trout battle consistent low river flows throughout the summer. When conditions are right the Jefferson is a viable trophy trout fishery and a favorite of anglers that prefer solitude on the river and are fine with lower catch rates but the potential for larger sized fish.

Fly Fishing the Jefferson River

The Jefferson River has lower fish per mile counts than many of the surrounding rivers and as a result is overlooked by local and travelling anglers alike. What they are missing out on is the opportunity for true trophy trout fly fishing. The wild rainbow and brown trout that do thrive in this river are tough. Our Montana fly fishing guides target the wild trout on the Jefferson primarily with streamers, large dry flies, and large nymphs.

Fly fishing success is often determined by factors outside of our control on the Jefferson. Weather, water, temperatures, clarity, and river flows all play a factor. We try and fish the Jefferson under only the best of conditions, generally in the Spring before our annual runoff period and then again later in the Fall once water temperatures drop. That being said when conditions are right, there can be great mid-summer hatches of stoneflies, hoppers, ants, beetles, and mayflies that can make for excellent fly fishing.

The Jefferson winds its way through one of Montana’s most productive agricultural valleys that relies heavily on ground water and surface water pulled from the Jefferson River and it’s water table. The result is unfavorable water temperatures and flows for fish and fly fishing during the summer months. When the river is at its lowest, we avoid it all together. Work is being done to restore the Jefferson River and better protect the trout populations it hosts.

Book Your Next Montana Fly Fishing Trip

Plan Your Trip

Prime Season:

April 1-April 30; July 1-August 15; October 1-October 31

Notable Hatches:

Stoneflies (July 1-July 31); Hoppers (August 1-August 15); BWOs (April 1-April 30)

Nearby Towns:

Bozeman, MT; Twin Bridges, MT; Ennis, MT; Three Forks, MT; Big Sky, MT

Nearby Rivers:

Madison River, Missouri River, Yellowstone River, and Gallatin 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!