Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Gallatin River - Gallatin Gateway - Montana

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon 16-20 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Winter Stoneflies Late Afternoon 16-18 Black Stone, Bullet Head Skwala
February Midges Afternoon 16-20 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Winter Stoneflies Late afternoon 16-18 Black Stone, Bullet Head Skwala
March Midges Afternoon 16-20 Red Midge, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon 16-18 Black Stone, Bullet Head Skwala
Blue-winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Blue Wing Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph
April Blue-winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Blue Wing Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph
Midges Afternoon 16-20 Red Midge, Zebra Midge
Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
May Sally Stones Afternoon 14-16 Yellow Sally, Lil' Yellow Sally
Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Blue-winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Blue Wing Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph
Pale Morning Dun Midday 14-18 Sparkle Dun, Adams Parachute
June Salmonfly All Day 6-8 Rogue Foam Stone, Chernobyl Ant
Green Drake Late Afternoon 10-12 Green Drake, Adams
Pale Morning Dun Midday 14-18 Sparkle Dun, Adams Parachute
Golden Stone All Day 8-10 Stimulator, Golden Stone Nymph
July Golden Stone All Day 8-10 Stimulator, Golden Stone Nymph
Pale Morning Dun Midday 14-18 Sparkle Dun, Adams Parachute
Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Chernobyl Ant, Dave's Hopper
Yellow Sallies Afternoon 14-16 Yellow Salley, Sparkle Dun
August Pale Morning Dun Midday 14-18 Sparkle Dun, Adams Parachute
Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Chernobyl Ant, Dave's Hopper
Hoppers All Day 8-12 Dave's Hopper, Foam Hopper
Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Tricos Morning 20-22 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
September Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Chernobyl Ant, Dave's Hopper
Tricos Morning 20-22 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Blue-winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Blue Wing Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph
Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
October Blue-winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Blue Wing Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph
Midges Afternoon 20-22 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
November Blue-winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Blue Wing Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph
Midges Afternoon 20-22 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
December Midges Afternoon 20-22 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon 16-18 Black Stone, Bullet Head Skwala

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Gallatin River – Gallatin Gateway is a renowned location, esteemed for its abundant fly fishing locations. Some of the best spots on this river include:
  • Big Sky: This stretch of the river, south of Gallatin Gateway, is known for its high trout population and scenic surroundings.
  • Gallatin Canyon: Accessible from Highway 191, Gallatin Canyon is brimming with rainbow and brown trout.
  • Moose Flats: Located near the Yellowstone National Park boundary, Moose Flats offers a remote experience with a chance to catch cutthroat trout.
  • Hellroaring Creek: This tributary of the Gallatin River is less crowded and is a hotspot for brook trout.
These choice spots offer varied fly fishing experiences to suit all skill levels. They provide the perfect combination of tranquillity, natural beauty, and thrilling angling experiences.

Best Access Points

The Gallatin River in Gallatin Gateway is renowned for its fly fishing opportunities. A few of the best access points include:

  • Axtell Bridge: Off Gateway South Road. Good for wade-in fishing.
  • Gallatin Forks: Near the confluence with the Madison and Jefferson rivers. This site offers excellent trout fishing.
  • Logan: Close to the town of Logan, this access point is known for its quiet atmosphere and great vistas.
  • Madison Buffalo Jump State Park: Besides fishing, this site also offers great hiking and wildlife viewing.
  • Three Forks Ponds: A secluded spot near the town of Three Forks, this spot is perfect for those seeking a peaceful fishing location.
  • Williams Bridge: This access point offers deep holes that hold larger trout than other areas of the river.

    • While these access points are among the best, there are many other spots along the Gallatin River that offer great fly fishing. Always ensure you respect the local wildlife and follow catch-and-release practices to keep the fish population healthy.

Local Fish

  • Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: A native species to the Gallatin River, it is sought after for its beautiful colors and strong fighting capabilities.
  • Rainbow Trout: Known for aggressive behaviors and jumping out of the water, the rainbow trout is a favorite of many anglers.
  • Brown Trout: Stealthy and unpredictable, the brown trout provides a challenge that many fly fishers enjoy.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Often found in the deeper pools of the river, the mountain whitefish provides a fun and unique fishing experience.
  • Brook Trout: While not as common as some other species, the brook trout is a favored catch due to its striking colors and distinctive markings.
  • Bull Trout: Although rare, catching a bull trout is a highly valued achievement due to its size and aggressive nature.
  • Arctic Grayling: Its distinct appearance and tendency to inhabit the high country make the arctic grayling a cherished catch.
  • Golden Trout: Famed for its dramatically golden coloration, the golden trout is often seen as the crown jewel of high elevation lakes and streams.

About The River

Originating from the Yellowstone National Park, the vibrant Gallatin River stretches around 120 miles North, defining the scenic beauty of Gallatin Gateway. This serenely beautiful river was named by Meriwether Lewis in July 1805 for Albert Gallatin, the U.S. Treasury Secretary. Tourists frequently visit this stunning spot to enjoy the charm of nature.

Feature delights include:

  • Fishing: The lower part of the river is popular with anglers, boasting consistently good trout fishing.
  • Adventurous Activities: For the adventure-seeking souls, Gallatin river provides a fantastic range of opportunities from white-water rafting to mountain hiking.
  • Historic Landmarks: The Gateway to the River and the Axtel Bridge are significant symbolic landmarks associated with this incredible river.

The history of the Gallatin River and Gallatin Gateway paints a picture of ever-evolving opportunities, natural beauty, and an immersive connection to the past. A visit here isn’t just about the view, it’s about experiencing a rich slice of American history.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Gear ReviewsFly Fishing

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

April 20, 2024

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Read More
Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions
Fly TyingFly Fishing

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…

Read More

Fly Tying Articles

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024