Fly Fishing the Gallatin River in Montana

The Gallatin River, located in Southwestern Montana, is a beautiful western trout stream worthy of recognition. From its source in Yellowstone National Park, it flows for over 100 miles before reaching the Missouri River. During its journey the Gallatin passes through "breath taking" canyons and open meadows. The river is open all year with a Special Regulation section.

Rainbows, cutthroats, and browns all make up the population of trout in these waters. Yellowstone National Park gives birth to the Gallatin just inside the northwest boundary. The river is a small brushy stream met by Route 191 a few miles before leaving the park. As the river flows north along Route 191 it begins to gain volume, depth, and width as it nears Belgrade. At Belgrade the Gallatin picks up Route 90 and parallels it to its end at the Missouri river.

From where Route 191 meets up with the Gallatin to the town of Big Sky in Montana, the river is a narrow and shallow stream with the lack of much depth. This skinny section of river flows through a tight canyon which opens up as it nears Big Sky. The river has many feeder creeks especially in its headwaters, but it is the Taylor Fork that is most important.

At Belgrade the Taylor Fork brings muddy water to the Gallatin during runoff and rainy periods. If clear water is what you seek, the upper Gallatin above Taylor fork is better during wet periods.

Down to Big Sky the river holds a good number of trout which are a little smaller and also less selective then the fish in the bottom end of the river. Many access points dot this stretch of river along Route 191.

Below Big Sky the river flows for approximately twenty miles before reaching the end of the Gallatin Canyon. The canyon here is steep and rocky but access to this area is fairly easy.

The river gains double the width and volume as it plunges past large boulders. Swift riffles and runs broken up by long pools also characterize this stretch. This is a popular section of river for both fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts. Every year the salmon fly hatch is greeted in this area by many fishermen.

After leaving the canyon the Gallatin flows for several more miles before reaching the influx of the East Gallatin River. The river slows in pace and flows through agricultural land as it wanders through a widening valley. Here, the river braids and warms during the summer as brown trout become more prevalent. This section can be excellent all year round although some years water depletion for agricultural purposes can impact the system. Trophy browns are taken each year throughout this stretch of water on a variety of flies from grass hoppers to salmon flies to big woolly buggers. Watch water temperatures during hot summer days and try to fish early and late in this stretch.

Below where the East Gallatin enters, the river flows for a few more miles before reaching the Missouri River. This is the best section for people who wish to float fish. The river wanders through big slow pools, gentle riffles, and runs. Fish will migrate into here from the Missouri River for spawning purposes. There are also resident fish as well. In this area, wildlife is often spotted making this an enjoyable stretch for almost anyone. There are a few areas for access to the river throughout this stretch.

Hatches on the Gallatin include Olives, Pale Morning Duns, caddis, and stoneflies. The salmon fly hatch usually occurs between mid June and early July. It is often met with high runoff, but the large stonefly can offer excellent fishing if conditions allow. Terrestrials will fish well during the summer months and an attractive dry, streamer, and nymph will be very productive on the river throughout the season.

If you're coming to the Gallatin River, the closest commercial airport is in Bozeman. Book your Guides and lodges early in the season. The area has many other fishing opportunities as well as other outdoor activities and attractions. Many anglers come to the Gallatin each year to fish its beautiful and productive water.