Fly Fishing
In the hottest days of the summer, the fishing is still great on the Yellowstone, Gallatin, and Madison Rivers in the early morning, from about 6 a.m. to noon. It’s also great way to beat the heat, and a beautiful time to be out on the rivers, watching the sunrise.
A float tube or pontoon can be a good way to go, as well as a good way to stay cool with your legs dangling in the water.
Fairy Lake is located up Bridger Canyon, 22.5 miles north of Bozeman on Highway 86. Turn left on Fairy Lake Road and drive five miles to the parking lot for the Sacajawea Peak Trailhead. The lake is just a short walk from the car. Rainbow trout are most prevalent.
Summer Fishing Spots
The Upper Madison River, between Quake Lake and Ennis, is at a higher elevation and has increased flows from Hebgen Lake. The Mountain Lakes tend to be at higher elevations where the water is deep and doesn’t cool off like some rivers. Not only is the fishing experience a treat, but also the views are inspiring and the lack of people can make for a peaceful day on the water.
higher volume of water keeps the temperature from rising as fast. The Upper Gallatin River from Spanish Creek to the Yellowstone Park boundary has deeper, faster flows, which also help to keep the
Lava Lake is located in the Gallatin Canyon. A three mile somewhat strenuous hike takes you to this remote fishing spot with spectacular views. From Four Corners, nine miles west of Bozeman, drive on Highway 191 South about 20 miles to the Lava Lake Trailhead on your right, just before the 35 mph bridge. Rainbow trout are most prevalent here as well.
Fly Fishing: A River Runs Through It
By Josh Stanish
Ask most people what their first impression of fly fishing is and many will mention Brad Pitt standing on a rock in the middle of the Gallatin River shadow casting. The movie “A River Runs Through It” has become synonymous with fly fishing because it offered magnificent scenery and romanticized the sport for the entire world to see on the big screen.
Beyond all the Hollywood glamour and glitz was a marvelous story about family and how fly fishing brought them together, if only for a short time. The main character, Paul, was chased by many demons, his only escape was on a trout stream where he was a true artist and a son his father could be proud of. Outside of the banks of the stream, Paul led a life of temptations and sin that would lead to his demise and bring heartache and pain to his family.
The short Book by Norman McLean is a classic and worth picking up and enjoying while you are in the area.