The Gallatin River
Start Your Next Fly Fishing Adventure on the Gallatin River!
If you’re looking for one of Montana’s most scenic and accessible trout rivers, it’s hard to beat rhe Gallatin River. Winding from its alpine headwaters near Yellowstone National Park down through classic canyon country and into the Gallatin Valley, this water offers tons of diverse fly fishing. The Gallatin’s consistent flows, high trout density, and stunning backdrop make it a favorite destination for guided fly fishing near Bozeman
Quick links:
Our Complete Gallatin River Fishing Guide (seasonal info, best flies, where/when/how)
Gallatin River Fishing Reports (latest conditions)
Gallatin River Guide Trip Options
Full-Day Gallatin River Guide Trip
A full-day Gallatin River guided fishing trip offers 6–8 hours of expert instruction and time on the water exploring some of Southwest Montana’s most scenic trout water, with opportunities to wade or float to productive runs, riffles, and pocket water while targeting wild rainbows, browns, and cutthroats —making it an unforgettable experience for anglers of all skill levels who want to maximize fish-catching opportunities on this classic freestone river.
Half-Day Gallatin River Guide Trip
A half-day Gallatin River guided fishing trip offers about 4 hours on this classic Southwest Montana freestone, focusing on productive runs, riffles, and pocket water while adapting to flows and conditions, with opportunities to fish dry flies during seasonal hatches, nymph rigs through deeper seams, and occasional streamers, all paired with expert local guidance, included gear (if needed), and an efficient, rewarding introduction to Gallatin River fly fishing for anglers with limited time.
Walk & Wade Gallatin River Trips
Most of our Gallatin River trips are walk-and-wade adventures just minutes from Bozeman, allowing anglers to slow down and thoroughly fish productive runs, riffles, and pocket water while focusing on water reading, fly presentation, and effective wading strategy. These trips are ideal for anglers who enjoy a hands-on approach, personalized instruction, and easy access to classic freestone trout water without long travel times.
Where We Fish on the Gallatin River
The Gallatin River
Our guided Gallatin River trips focus on productive stretches close to Bozeman in the Gallatin Valley, selecting sections based on seasonal conditions, flows, and fishing opportunities. This diverse river offers everything from fast-moving pocket water and boulder-strewn runs to longer riffles, deep seams, and calmer glides, providing excellent habitat for wild rainbow and brown trout. By fishing different sections throughout the year, we’re able to match techniques to the water—whether that means dry flies during summer hatches, nymphing deeper runs in cooler months, or covering water efficiently with streamers when trout are on the move.
What’s Included on Your Gallatin River Guided Trip
What’s Included (and Not Included) on Guide Trips + What to Bring
On all of our guided Gallatin River walk/wade guide trips, you’ll enjoy expert one-on-one local guiding with instruction tailored to your skill level, rods, reels, flies and terminal tackle, safety equipment, and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your trip.
Full-day trips also feature a hearty streamside lunch, while half-day trips typically do not include a meal (so bringing a snack can be a good idea).
What’s not included are guide gratuities (Customarily 20-25%), your Montana fishing license (required for anglers age 12+), personal accessory gear like hats, polarized sunglasses, sunblock, or alcohol, and any optional equipment rentals (waders and wading boots) you may choose to bring or rent in town.
What to bring on your Gallatin River guide trip:
✅ Valid Montana fishing license (required)
✅ Layers & rainwear (weather can change quickly)
✅ Sunscreen + lip protection
✅ Hat & polarized sunglasses for glare reduction
✅ Wading boots / water shoes (if not using provided gear)
✅ Buff or neck gaiter for sun/wind protection
✅ Waterproof jacket or shell
✅ Camera / phone (in waterproof case)
✅ Snacks for half-day trips
✅ Optional: fishing gloves, hand warmers, personal first aid items
(Seasonal extras like warm hats or base layers are recommended in shoulder seasons.)
Gallatin River Fly Fishing Reports
Stay informed with our regularly updated Gallatin River fishing reports, offering current insights on river flows, water clarity, weather trends, and active hatches throughout the season. Our reports highlight the most effective flies and techniques—whether it’s nymphing productive seams during cooler periods, dialing in dry fly fishing during summer hatches, or turning to streamers when changing conditions put trout on the move—so you know what to expect before you hit the water. Written by local guides who fish the Gallatin regularly, these reports provide real-time, on-the-ground information to help anglers plan successful trips close to Bozeman.
Book Your Gallatin River Guide Trip
Ready to experience the Gallatin River like a local? Book your guided float or wade trip today and secure your spot with our expert guide team. Whether you’re planning a half-day session to fit into your Montana itinerary or a full-day float to cover miles of iconic water, we’ll tailor your fly-fishing adventure to the best possible conditions and your skill level. With up-to-date fishing reports, premium lodging recommendations, and professional guide instruction included, now is the perfect time to reserve your Gallatin River fishing trip — spots fill quickly during peak seasons.
Contact us or book online to lock in your dates!