Fall Fishing in Montana's Yellowstone Country

It’s always a little sad to say goodbye to summer — but fortunately, here in Montana’s Yellowstone Country, autumn is equally exceptional. The cooler days are great for hiking, the bison and elk ruts in Yellowstone are quite the spectacle with the bulls battling it out for dominance, and of course, there’s some excellent fishing.

During the fall, the brown trout begin spawning, making them much more active. They migrate out of Hebgen Lake and into the Madison River, where they lay their eggs in what are called redds. It’s essential to watch for these, as treading on them while wade fishing destroys the eggs, and disturbing the sediment can smother them. The redds are generally found in shallow, gravely areas and are identified by a slightly scooped-out depression, with cleaner, brighter gravel. Instead, focus on fishing deeper runs and pools away from the spawning areas.



In Yellowstone National Park, the Firehole and Gibbon Rivers are both great options. Crowds disperse, reducing pressure, and the Firehole is generally subject to hoot owl restrictions until the first cold snap in September, giving the fish a break. The Firehole is not known for big fish, but rather a lot of fish! This area is known for its dry fly fishing and variety of hatches. The Firehole joins with the Gibbon River to form the famed Madison River. Fishing the lower section of the Gibbon is a favorite given the large (16-20”) Brown and Rainbow trout.

The Gallatin River, for the most part, is closed to fishing from a boat upstream, but is allowed from the East Gallatin confluence on. (Do note, it is a technical river, best suited to experienced boaters.) However, wade fishing the Gallatin in the fall can be fantastic. Generally, the water is low and clear, so a careful presentation is required, but the hatches are consistent, and the views are spectacular. (In case you weren’t aware, this is where the movie A River Runs Through It was filmed.)



Another area to explore is the upper Boulder River, near Big Timber. Since the nights are cooler, you’ll find the fish most active late in the day.

You can purchase your Montana State Fishing License here, and if you are fishing in Yellowstone National Park, anglers 16 years and older must have a valid YNP fishing permit. State licenses within Yellowstone are not valid or required. Keep in mind, weather changes quickly in the fall, so bring options for rain, sun or snow!