Bozeman Montana Fishing Report-11/06/25
Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters — Current Conditions and Fly Fishing Report For the Madison, Gallatin, and Yellowstone Rivers. Updated 11/06/25
We’ve got a fantastic stretch of fall weather ahead — cool mornings, mild afternoons, and light winds across southwest Montana. The extended forecast looks great for anglers, with steady flows and comfortable temps that are keeping fish active throughout the day.
With colder mornings and overnight lows dipping near freezing, the best fishing is happening mid-day once water temps bump up and trout start sliding out to feed. Expect steady nymphing, some good streamer action on the drop-offs, and the occasional dry fly window when clouds roll through. Everything is fishing well right now — a perfect setup for early November days on the water.
Gallatin River Fishing Report 11/06/25
Current Flow: ~ 397 CFS @ Gallatin Gateway
The Gallatin continues to fish consistently, especially during that 11 AM – 4 PM window. As the sun warms the valley, trout move from deep pockets into riffles and softer seams to feed on midges and small baetis nymphs.
Nymphing is the most reliable method, but on calm, cloudy afternoons, expect a few risers on the softer edges. A dry-dropper rig with a small midge or BWO nymph underneath a parachute adams has been a go-to for covering both zones.
Recommended Flies:
Nymphs: Perdigon #16-18, Zebra Midge #16-18, Rubberlegs #8-12, Rainbow Warrior #18, Slush Egg #14
Dries: BWO Sparkle Dun #18–20, Parachute Adams #16-18, Griffith’s Gnat #18-20, Film Critic BWO #18
Streamers: Small Sculpzilla #8, Mini Dolly Llama, Mini Dungeon
Tactics: Work pocket water and seams, fish small and deep, and focus your efforts once the water starts to warm.
Upper Madison River Fishing Report 11/06/25
Current Flow: ~ 744 CFS @ Kirby Ranch near Cameron
The Upper Madison is fishing steady and remains one of the best options for active trout right now. Cold mornings mean no need to rush — fishing picks up around 10 or 11 AM and stays strong through midafternoon.
Nymphing small baetis and midge patterns below a rubberlegs or attractor nymph continues to produce well. As the day warms, focus on soft seams and tailouts where fish move up to feed. Streamer fishing is solid during the warmest part of the day and again as the light fades.
Recommended Flies:
Nymphs: Pat’s Rubberlegs #10, Micro May #18, Perdigon #16-18, Zebra Midge #16-18, Perdibomb #18l
Streamers: Sculpzilla (olive or black), Mini Dungeon, Mini Dolly Llama
Dries: BWO Cripple #18, Parachute Adams #18
Tactics: Depth and weight are key — adjust often. Fish are holding deep in the morning, then sliding up to feed in riffles and slower runs once the water warms up
Lower Madison River Fishing Report 11/06/25
Current Flow: ~ 1,150 CFS below Ennis Dam
The Lower Madison continues to fish very well, with trout spread out through deeper troughs and deep drop offs. The consistent flows and mild weather have made for great days on the water. Nymphing small baetis, midges, and scuds under an indicator or dry-dropper has been the top ticket.
Streamer fishing has been steady too — smaller, natural-toned streamers stripped slow or swung through deeper runs are drawing quality fish. Baetis hatches are happening midafternoon on calm, cloudy days for those looking to chase a few heads on top.
Recommended Flies:
Nymphs: Ray Charles #18, Perdigon #16-18, Zebra Midge #16-18, Hot Bead Scuds #14-18,
Streamers: Kreelex (gold/copper), Sparkle Minnow, Black Woolly Buggers
Dries: BWO Parachute #18, Purple Haze #16–18, Extended Body BWO #16-18
Tactics: Focus on the deeper channels and slower slots; fish are hugging bottom early, then feeding higher in the column midday.
Yellowstone River Fishing Report 11/06/25
Current Flow: ~1,580 CFS at Livingston
The Yellowstone is in great shape with steady flows, clear water, and active trout. Afternoons are bringing good nymphing action, and streamer fishing continues to be decent on the warmer days. Look for soft water and depth transitions near seams and mid-river boulders.
On overcast days, baetis hatches are still producing some nice dry fly opportunities — especially from mid-day into early afternoon.
Recommended Flies:
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail #16, Split Case BWO #18, Perdigon #16, Zebra Midge #16-18, Rubberlegs #8-12
Dries: BWO Sparkle Dun #16–18, CDC Comparadun #18, Purple Haze #16-18
Streamers: Sparkle Minnow, Dungeons, Double Gonga, Scuplzilla,
Tactics: Focus your fishing window around the warmest part of the day. Start with nymphs and switch to streamers once shadows stretch. Keep your approach slow and methodical — fish are feeding, but they’re not chasing fast retrieves.
Final Thoughts
We’re in one of those perfect late-fall stretches — stable weather and fairly consistent fishing. Mid-day warmth is key right now, and nymphing remains the most dependable way to stay hooked up. Streamer fishing will keep producing when conditions are right, and baetis hatches will continue on overcast days.
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