Missouri River Fly Fishing in Montana

The 2,300 mile Missouri River, near Bozeman, Montana, is known for its premier Missouri River fly fishing opportunities, hosting thousands of trout, about 3,000 per mile, averaging 14-18 inches.

The Missouri River Headwaters near Bozeman, Montana, are formed by the conjoining of the Gallatin, Madison, and Jefferson Rivers at the aptly named Three Forks, Montana, and the wide, flowing Missouri River is a fly fisher’s favorite destination as it courses through scenic valleys, canyons, and hay meadows.

Best Time to Fish

In late spring and summer, Missouri River fishing is all about trout -- they are front and center as the main attraction and hatches like Midges, Baetis, Tiny olives, P.M.D.'s, black, tan, and October Caddis, and Tricos bring lots of fish to the surface. Hoppers, damselflies, ants, and beetles also attract trout near river banks. Many larger trout, especially browns, are caught on streamers.

Best Place to Fish

The Missouri offers a lot of great wading water as well as several zones where boats are preferred for fishing, and that’s definitely an area that local guides, suppliers and outfitters listed here can assist you. They’ve been fishing here for years and have the passion and experience to help both novice and experienced anglers be more successful and suggest the best spots to fish the Missouri via route 287, Interstate 15 and other side roads.

For More Information

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
1400 South 19th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59718
406-994-4042