20 Best Places for Fly Fishing in Montana

1. Clark Fork River Fly Fishing

If you like throwing dry flies to pods of rising fish then this is the river for you. Depending on the time of the year and the hatches you'll have dry fly fishing all day long. Whether it's PMD's in June/July, Hoppers in August or our favorite Mahoganies in the fall there will be fish rising. In fact, you can have pods of 30 or more fish rising in a back eddy! This is a "must fish" river for all you dry fly fanatics like us to fly fish in Montana. Stop by our Missoula fly shop or visit our website for the most current Clark Fork River fishing report.

Learn more in our full Clark Fork Fly Fishing Guide →

2. Blackfoot River Fly Fishing

Made famous by Norman Maclean in his book "A River Runs Through It," the Big Blackfoot is a magical place full of native Cutthroat trout, rainbows, and browns. This is a textbook, boulder-strewn river with a bit of whitewater mixed in. It's one of the most picturesque places to fly fish in Montana. Trout thrive in its green-blue water and love eating attractor dry flies. If you want a lazy day throwing attractor dries and willing fish then you want to make sure to fish this river. The beauty and majesty of this river, along with it's bountiful trout make it top place for fly fishing in Montana! From Missoula fly fishing, gear, and flies to our Blackfoot River fishing reports, we've got everything you need to have a great day on the Blackfoot River!

Learn more in our full Blackfoot River Fly Fishing Guide →

3. Bitterroot River Fly Fishing

The Bitterroot has some of the best spring fishing in Montana. The Skwala Stonefly, a size 8-12 dark olive stonefly, crawls up on the rocks and hatches in late March and early April. It's the time of year that some of the biggest trout in the Bitterroot is willing to come out and gobble up a big foam dry fly, and catching fish on a dry fly in the spring will cure any cabin fever you might have from a long, cold winter. However, this isn't just a spring fishery because major stonefly, mayfly and caddis hatches happen all summer and fall as well. If you're looking for a good day of fly fishing in Missoula, the Bitterroot is home to some spectacular fish. Swing by our downtown fly shop or check out our up-to-date Bitterroot fly fishing report before you hit the water!

Learn more in our full Bitterroot River Fly Fishing Guide →

4. Rock Creek Fly Fishing

If a perfect trout stream were to exist, it would have to be Rock Creek. This tributary to the Clark Fork has everything a fish could want – riffles, runs, pools, cutbanks, boulders, and strainers. This all makes for a smaller, by Montana standards, river that is full of browns, rainbows and cutthroat. It's well known for one of the best Salmon Fly hatches in all of Montana in late May and early June. But its yearlong fly fishing near Missoula is just as wonderful as trout are always willing to eat a well-presented dry fly, nymph or streamer. Know before you go when you check out our Rock Creek fishing reports.

Learn more in our full Rock Creek Fly Fishing Guide →

5. Missouri River Fly Fishing

The Missouri, a.k.a. the MO if you're a local, is basically a giant spring creek with upwards of 5000-6000 trout per mile below Holter Dam, near the towns of Craig and Wolf Creek, MT. If you like fishing small dries or nymphs for big trout, then this is the place for you. It fishes all year long due to the fact that it's a tailwater, meaning that you will find a few fish to be caught, even in the winter! Although the Missouri can get busy, it's well worth the trouble, as there are plenty of fish to be caught. Get the insider scoop when you swing by our Missoula fly fishing shop or check out our Missouri River fishing report.

Learn more in our full Missouri River Fly Fishing Guide →

6. Gallatin River Fly Fishing

The Gallatin River is a dynamic freestone fishery that offers excellent trout fishing across its entire length—from its headwaters in Yellowstone National Park to its confluence with the Missouri River. The upper canyon stretch, from the park boundary to Spanish Creek, is home to high fish counts with aggressive rainbows and browns eager to eat dry flies, especially during summer hatches of salmonflies, golden stones, and caddis. Below Cameron Bridge, fish density declines but the chance of hooking into a large brown trout increases, particularly in the fall.

Throughout the season, the Gallatin boasts a diverse hatch schedule, including Blue Winged Olives, PMDs, and terrestrials like grasshoppers and spruce moths, with ideal fishing conditions from June through October. Wading is the primary method due to river restrictions on floating, and anglers should be prepared for swift water and challenging access. Fall and winter bring opportunities for streamer fishing and nymphing midges, especially in the lower river, making the Gallatin a true year-round fishery with dramatic scenery and a wide variety of fishing experiences.

7. Madison River Fly Fishing

The Madison River is one of the most iconic and diverse trout fisheries in Montana, stretching from Yellowstone National Park to the Missouri River. Each section of the Madison offers a distinct character, from scenic canyon pocket water to wide riffles, deep runs, and braided channels. This river provides a year-round fly fishing opportunity with varied hatches, techniques, and habitat that keep anglers engaged regardless of the season. High trout counts, spectacular scenery, and a mix of float and wade fishing options make it a favorite for both DIY anglers and guided trips. Whether you’re swinging streamers for trophy browns in fall, throwing dries during the summer salmonfly hatch, or winter nymphing in the Lower Madison’s weed beds, there’s always a stretch of this river ready to produce. Its proximity to Yellowstone, rich biodiversity, and reliable fishing across seasons make the Madison a must-fish destination for serious anglers visiting Montana.

8. Beaverhead River Fly Fishing

The Beaverhead River, stretching approximately 70 miles through southwest Montana, is revered as the top producer of large brown trout in the state, with trophy rainbows also calling its waters home. Originating below Clark Canyon Dam, the upper section draws the most angling pressure and challenges anglers with tight turns and selective trout, while the lower stretch from Barretts Dam to Dillon offers wading anglers solitude, lighter traffic, and equally rewarding fishing opportunities. The river shines during summer months with prolific PMD, Yellow Sally, and caddis hatches, along with August’s trico and crane fly action, while nymphs and streamers are key to connecting with the Beaverhead’s famously big, wary browns. Don't be fooled into think you have to use small flies here—the streamer fishing in August when they are letting a lot of water out of the dam can be downright amazing. Put on a white streamer, hit the banks and hang on!

9. Big Hole River Fly Fishing

The Big Hole River, often referred to as “Montana’s Last Best River,” is a remarkably diverse fishery that flows from the high mountain meadows near Wisdom through a mix of scenic valleys, rugged canyons, and cottonwood-lined stretches before meeting the Beaverhead River at Twin Bridges. Each section of the river offers something unique: small-stream dry fly fishing for native grayling and brook trout in the headwaters, larger browns and rainbows in the upper and middle sections, and classic freestone riffle water in the lower valley. The river’s changing character—from tight canyon pockets to wide open meanders—makes it a favorite for anglers looking for variety in both water types and techniques.

The Big Hole is also known for its impressive seasonal hatches, highlighted by the famed salmonfly hatch in June, followed by golden stones, PMDs, Yellow Sallies, caddis, and tricos throughout the summer. Dry fly enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities during morning spinner falls and evening caddis flurries, while streamer anglers can target larger browns in spring and fall. Terrestrials like hoppers and spruce moths offer exciting surface action in the heat of summer. Though winter brings thick ice and little opportunity to fish, the rest of the year offers everything from solitude to world-class dry fly fishing—cementing the Big Hole’s place as one of Montana’s most iconic rivers.

10. Smith River Fly Fishing

Montana fly fishing doesn’t get more iconic than the Smith River. This legendary float trip winds through 60 miles of protected wilderness, accessible only by permit, and framed by soaring limestone cliffs, dense forests, and wide-open solitude. Strictly managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, the Smith offers fly anglers the rare combination of pristine scenery, limited pressure, and healthy populations of both rainbow and brown trout—many exceeding 20 inches. While floating is generally limited to May through early July and again in September, the fishing can be phenomenal whenever water levels allow. Spring brings Skwala and caddis hatches, followed by the famous salmonfly emergence in mid-May. Post-runoff, golden stones, caddis, and attractors dominate the surface action, while fall sees hopper eats, Blue Winged Olives, and a return of aggressive streamer takes from pre-spawn browns. Whether you draw a launch date through the state’s permit lottery or join a guided trip, the Smith River is a bucket-list Montana fly fishing adventure.

11. Yellowstone River Fly Fishing

The Yellowstone is Montana’s largest free-flowing river and one of the West’s most iconic trout fisheries. From its headwaters in Yellowstone National Park to the expansive lower reaches near Big Timber, the river offers incredible diversity in water types, scenery, and trout species. Anglers can expect native cutthroat, wild rainbows, and trophy browns throughout more than 200 miles of fishable water. The river is known for its consistent dry fly action with famous hatches like Salmonflies, Pale Morning Duns, Blue-Winged Olives, and caddis, along with reliable terrestrial fishing featuring hoppers, ants, and beetles. The lower stretches near Big Timber hold some of the biggest brown trout in Montana, and are a top choice for anglers who enjoy fishing streamers. Whether floating the broad currents of Paradise Valley or hiking into the rugged canyons of the Park, the Yellowstone River delivers a true Montana fly fishing experience.

12. Bighorn River Fly Fishing

The Bighorn River near Fort Smith, Montana, is one of the state’s most legendary tailwaters and a must-visit for serious fly anglers. Fed by the cold, consistent outflow of Yellowtail Dam, the Bighorn produces prolific hatches, dense trout populations, and year-round fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch large numbers of wild browns and rainbows in the 14- to 18-inch range, with trophy-sized fish caught regularly. The river’s rich ecosystem supports an abundance of small aquatic life—scuds, sowbugs, midges, and mayfly nymphs—which makes it a true technical nymphing paradise.

While dry fly fishing is more challenging on the Bighorn than on Montana’s freestone rivers, the rewards are well worth the effort. Trico and Blue-Winged Olive hatches can bring pods of rising fish to the surface, requiring stealthy approaches and fine tippets. May and June are prime months to fish the Bighorn, when insect activity and water conditions align for consistent success. Although it’s a popular river with plenty of angling pressure, its productivity and average trout size more than make up for the company. For anglers focused on catching big, strong fish with refined tactics, the Bighorn River offers one of Montana’s most rewarding fly fishing experiences.

13. Jefferson River Fly Fishing

The Jefferson River may not enjoy the same fame as its headwater streams—the Big Hole and Beaverhead—but it earns a place on any Montana fly fishing list. Formed in Twin Bridges, the Jefferson meanders through expansive agricultural valleys, framed by the Tobacco Root Mountains and dotted with cottonwoods and undercut banks. Although trout densities are lower than some of its blue ribbon neighbors, the Jefferson makes up for it with solitude, striking scenery, and the potential for large brown trout, especially during spring and fall streamer fishing. Hatches of Blue-Winged Olives, caddis, and drakes provide dry fly opportunities in cooler months, while hopper fishing can be excellent in late summer near the lower stretches.

The Jefferson is highly dependent on water levels, fishing best during spring runoff windows, post-runoff in early summer, and again in the fall. During drought years, irrigation withdrawals can make fishing tough, but strong snowpack years see trout populations rebound and water levels stabilize. Anglers who time their visit right are rewarded with big, aggressive fish and far less competition than nearby rivers. The Jeff is often where local guides go on their days off—its moody temperament, big-fish potential, and quiet setting create a uniquely rewarding Montana fly fishing experience.

14. Ruby River Fly Fishing

The Ruby River is a hidden gem in the world of Montana fly fishing. Flowing through the scenic Ruby Valley, this small tailwater below Ruby Dam offers surprisingly big rewards for wade anglers seeking solitude and strong, wild trout. The river’s intimate size makes it ideal for dry fly and nymph fishing, with prolific hatches of PMDs, caddis, and midges, plus excellent terrestrial fishing during the summer months. Brown trout dominate the Ruby, with healthy populations of rainbows mixed in—fish in the 14–18" range are common, and the occasional 20"+ bruiser keeps things exciting.

Access can be challenging due to private property along much of the river, but for those who know where to go, the Ruby delivers exceptional action in short, fishy pockets and deep undercut banks. During spring and fall, streamers and nymphs produce well, while summer brings hoppers and other terrestrials into the mix. While less famous than neighboring rivers like the Madison, Big Hole, and Beaverhead, the Ruby’s clear water, light pressure, and quality fish make it one of the most rewarding small rivers in Montana fly fishing.

16. Flathead River Fly Fishing

The Flathead River system, located in the scenic northwest corner of the state, offers one of the most diverse and breathtaking Montana fly fishing experiences. Composed of the North, Middle, and South Forks—originating in Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness—the Flathead is a haven for native westslope cutthroat trout and rainbow trout. The main stem of the river, which begins near West Glacier, flows into Flathead Lake and offers exceptional dry fly fishing in the upper reaches, particularly during summer when hatches of caddis, PMDs, and terrestrials bring trout to the surface. The glacial origins of the river mean cool, clear water all summer long, making it an ideal destination during hot weather. Wade fishing is limited due to the river’s width, but floating opens up a vast array of backwater channels, deep pools, and cutbank lies teeming with trout.

Below Flathead Lake, the river becomes more of a mixed-species fishery due to flow regulation from Kerr Dam. While trout can still be found in sections below the dam, the lower river is better known for warmwater species like northern pike and bass. Anglers targeting trout will find the most consistent success above the lake, especially when focusing on structure-rich areas like riffles, submerged timber, and bank eddies. The Flathead River may not produce trophy fish as frequently as some famous rivers to the south, but its solitude, stunning scenery, and consistent action for wild trout make it a must-visit for any Montana fly fishing trip.

17. Yellowstone National Park Fly Fishing

While technically much of Yellowstone National Park lies in Wyoming, its close proximity to top Montana fly fishing destinations like the Madison, Gallatin, and Yellowstone Rivers makes it a natural inclusion on any serious angler’s itinerary. The park is a fly fishing treasure trove, offering unparalleled access to iconic rivers like the Firehole, Gibbon, Lamar, Slough Creek, upper Yellowstone, and the upper Madison. Each drainage offers a unique angling experience, from technical spring creek-style fishing to freestone pocket water and lake-run cutthroat opportunities. The diversity of water types and trout species—combined with stunning scenery and prolific hatches—make Yellowstone one of the most dynamic fisheries in the West.

Yellowstone is best approached in segments, with four general regions—northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast—each containing its own signature waters and timing. Slough Creek and Lamar Valley are known for their dry fly sight-fishing to native cutthroat in the late summer, while the Firehole and Gibbon rivers offer early-season hatches of baetis and caddis during the park’s spring opener. The sheer volume of fishable creeks, rivers, and lakes within the park could occupy a lifetime of exploration, but even a single-day detour from nearby Montana rivers can provide a memorable experience. For anglers looking to add variety and wild scenery to their Montana fly fishing adventure, Yellowstone National Park is an unmatched addition.

Learn more in our full Yellowstone National Park Fly Fishing Guide →

18. Stillwater River

The Stillwater River begins high in the Beartooth Mountains and flows into the Yellowstone River at Columbus, Montana, offering a slightly larger and equally productive alternative to the nearby Boulder River. With swift currents, rocky structure, and scenic mountain views, this river is best navigated by raft and delivers some of Montana’s finest dry fly fishing—especially in the summer months. Located about an hour and a half from Bozeman and just an hour from Livingston, it’s a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the drive. Our guides love taking anglers here for classic Montana float trips where big rainbows and browns aggressively crush large attractor dries like Royal Wulffs. If fast-paced dry fly action and solitude sound appealing, the Stillwater River might be your new favorite destination.

20. Nunya – Secret Montana Fly Fishing Spots

There are a lot of places to fly fish in Montana that no one talks about and no amount of money or beer will get it out of those who hold those places close to their hearts. Our advice is to get a map and find a blue line. If it's in the western half of the state, there is most likely a trout in it. So, get out and explore. You might find a stream or river with big fish that not many people know about. You won't tell a soul and it will be just for you and your memories. If people ask where you fished in Montana you'll just say Nunya, Nunya business.

Frequently Asked Questions About Montana Fly Fishing

Q: When is the best time to fly fish in Montana?
A: The best time to fly fish in Montana is from late spring through early fall but quality of fishing depends on where you go. If you want to fish small creeks for wild cutthroat, come in the peak of summer. If you want to fish for big browns who are fattening up before winter, come in October. There truly isn't a bad time to fly fish in Montana (unless temps are way below freezing!).

Q: Do I need a fishing license to fly fish in Montana?
A: Yes, all anglers need a valid Montana fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local fly shops like Grizzly Hackle.

Q: What are the best rivers for fly fishing in Montana?
A: Top rivers include the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Clark Fork, Rock Creek, Missouri River, Madison, and Yellowstone depending on the time of year. But each river varies drastically depending on the season so it's best to consult local fly shops before planning your Montana fly fishing trip.

Q: What flies work best in Montana?
A: Fly patterns vary by season, but popular choices include Chubby Chernobyls, Pat’s Rubber Legs, Pheasant Tails, and various streamers. Check local Montana fishing reports for current hatches and up-to-date insights on what's happening on the water.

Q: Is Montana fly fishing good for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Many rivers near Missoula are beginner-friendly including Rock Creek, Blackfoot River, and the Bitterroot River. Hiring a local Missoula fly fishing guide can help you learn fast while having a great day on the water.

Q: Can I fish in Montana year-round?
A: Yes, but winter fishing is more limited due to weather and many rivers are unfishable during periods of cold temperatures. Spring through fall offers the most consistent and enjoyable conditions, but if you want to get out during the winter, we recommend tailwater fisheries like the Missouri River near Craig, the upper Madison, the Bighorn, or the Bitterroot River.

Q: Are guided fly fishing trips available in Montana?
A: Yes. Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop in Missoula offers guided float fishing trips and wade trips tailored to your skill level and target species.

Q: What gear do I need for fly fishing in Montana?
A: A 5- or 6-weight rod is versatile for most rivers in Montana. Waders, boots, polarized sunglasses, and a selection of flies from local fly shops round out your setup.

Q: Where can I stay near good fly fishing spots in Montana?
A: Missoula offers great access to several rivers, whether you're wading or floating in a boat. Stay downtown at places like the Dry Fly Apartments to walk to shops, restaurants, and guide services.

Q: What fish species can I catch while fly fishing in Montana?
A: You’ll find wild rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout throughout the state, along with some bull trout, brook trout, and whitefish in select rivers. For those that are fishing Montana's stillwater fisheries, you may encounter largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, perch, lake trout (mackinaw), carp, and more.

Whether you're chasing wild trout on iconic rivers like the Missouri or exploring lesser-known streams in Western Montana, this list of 18 fly fishing destinations offers something for every angler. Before you head out, be sure to review Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks regulations to ensure you're fishing responsibly and legally. And if you're looking to make the most of your Montana fly fishing experience, book a guided fly fishing trip with Grizzly Hackle - our local experts know these waters like the back of their hand and are ready to put you on fish.