Where We Fish
Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone River, the longest free-flowing river in the lower 48 states, is a dream destination for fly anglers. Stretching through Southwest Montana’s stunning landscapes, this iconic river offers year-round fly fishing opportunities for trout enthusiasts. Its diverse sections—ranging from long tailouts to fast riffles—are home to healthy populations of rainbow, brown, and native Yellowstone cutthroat trout.
Whether you’re floating through Paradise Valley, exploring the waters below Yankee Jim Canyon, or casting in the scenic lower stretches, the Yellowstone River provides thrilling fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels. With prolific insect hatches and incredible scenery, the Yellowstone is perfect for dry fly purists, nymphers, and streamer enthusiasts alike.
Plan your trip to fly fish the Yellowstone River and experience one of Montana’s most legendary waters. From spring runoff to fall hatches, this river offers unparalleled beauty and the chance to land the trout of a lifetime.
While we can fish the Yellowstone River year round, we recommend fishing the Yellowstone River from late June to September.
Missouri River
The Missouri River near Craig, Montana, is a bucket-list destination for fly anglers seeking some of the best trout fishing in the world. Renowned for its consistent flows, nutrient-rich waters, and dense trout population, this stretch of the Missouri is often referred to as a "fly fishing mecca."
Known for its incredible hatches, including PMDs, caddis, and midges, the river offers exciting opportunities for dry fly fishing, nymphing, and streamer action. Rainbow and brown trout flourish here, with many fish averaging 16-20 inches and trophy catches always a possibility.
The Missouri River near Craig provides breathtaking scenery and unmatched angling experiences. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned pros, this river is a must-visit for anyone passionate about fly fishing.
We strongly recommend booking 2+ days on the Missouri. These fish fight really hard, and it takes a minute to settle into these bucking broncs. We spend most of our time fishing the Missouri River between March and June.
Upper Madison River
The Upper Madison River near Ennis, Montana, is a world-renowned fly fishing destination known for its abundant trout, legendary hatches, and stunning scenery. Often referred to as the "50-Mile Riffle," this stretch offers consistent flows, classic riffle-run-pool structures, and thriving populations of brown and rainbow trout.
Fly anglers flock to this section for its incredible seasonal hatches, including caddisflies, PMDs, and the iconic salmonfly hatch, which bring exciting dry fly action. Whether wade fishing or floating, the Madison near Ennis provides opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to target trophy trout.
Surrounded by the breathtaking Madison Range, this area combines world-class fishing with the natural beauty Montana is famous for.
We recommend fishing the Upper Madison River year round. It is an incredible fishery!
Gallatin River
The Gallatin River in Montana is a fly fishing gem, offering exceptional opportunities for anglers amidst stunning mountain landscapes. Flowing through Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky, and the Gallatin Valley, this freestone river is renowned for its abundant trout and diverse fishing conditions.
The Gallatin is home to healthy populations of rainbow, brown, and native cutthroat trout, with wade fishing being the primary method along its accessible banks. Its upper stretches feature pocket water and fast riffles, perfect for dry flies and nymphs, while the lower river transitions into meandering runs ideal for larger trout and streamer fishing.
Prolific hatches, including caddis, stoneflies, salmon flies, and mayflies, make the Gallatin a favorite for dry fly enthusiasts, especially during summer. Its breathtaking surroundings, from rugged canyons to wide-open valleys, add to the allure of this world-class river.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, the Gallatin River delivers an unforgettable fly fishing experience in the heart of Montana. We recommend fishing the Gallatin River in the fall, winter, and early spring.
Lower Madison River
The Lower Madison River in Montana is a top fly fishing destination, offering diverse angling opportunities just a short drive from Bozeman. Flowing from Ennis Dam to its confluence with the Missouri River, this stretch is known for its slower currents, accessible wading spots, and scenic beauty.
Anglers flock to the Lower Madison for its healthy populations of brown and rainbow trout, as well as seasonal hatches of caddisflies, PMDs, and blue-winged olives.
Ideal for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, the Lower Madison combines productive fishing with breathtaking views of Montana’s rolling hills and rugged landscapes. Whether you're planning a wade trip or a relaxing float, the Lower Madison River offers a rewarding fly fishing experience for anyone visiting the Big Sky state.
We recommend fishing the Lower Madison in the spring and fall. There are excellent nymphing and streamer fishing opportunities during these times of year.
Other Rivers and Lakes
There are a plethora of other waters we fish here in the Bozeman area including the Jefferson River. If you’re looking to go chase our local Montana Bonefish (carp) on the fly, or go cast to big browns, rainbows, and cutthroat trout in one of our other rivers or lakes, feel free to contact Drift Wizard Angler and we’ll discuss our options!