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6 Hidden Fishing Spots for Montana Fly Fishing
Picture yourself at hidden fishing spots, ready to experience a memorable Montana fly fishing adventure. As you wait to capture fish, the picturesque view captivates you. Once you've enjoyed a flawless view, you depart with some of the finest catches you've ever experienced. It’s the essence of Big Sky Country fly fishing—a calming and thrilling experience.
With numerous fishing opportunities in this outdoor paradise, anglers never run out of hotspots. But if you’re looking for the hidden gems of Montana, steer clear of crowds, and explore lesser-known places, this list of the hidden fishing spots for Montana fly fishing is perfect.
Montana Fly Fishing in the Clark Fork River
The Clark Fork River is one of the top hidden fishing spots for Montana fly fishing. It’s divided into two clearly defined segments, splitting at Missoula into the upper and lower sections.
The upper Clark Fork meanders through rural areas and cattle farms east of the town. Its brown trout and rainbow populations thrive in the ideal habitat created by its undercut banks, side channels, and drop-offs.
As the Clark Fork flows through Missoula, the Blackfoot and Bitterroot Rivers merge, increasing the river's water volume almost threefold. It creates what we refer to as the lower Clark Fork, winding its route to the west towards Idaho.
The rivers have long, vast stretches where you can find rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout in riffles and flats. The lower Clark Fork offers excellent dry fly fishing opportunities thanks to its plentiful hatches, which attract trout to the surface during summer. The spirited rainbows in this part of the river are among the most aggressive in the state!
The upper Clark Fork is mainly fished with streamers and big dry flies. Banks with grass hanging over them can create memorable dry fly takes when undercut. Terrestrial insects, Caddis, and Stoneflies are predominantly responsible for the surface activity here.
The lower Clark Fork presents an entirely different situation. The numerous hatches that attract groups of fish to the surface require extended periods of drifting without any drag. During the fishing season, larger attractor flies and terrestrials are the main techniques used between hatches.
Fly Fishing in the Blackfoot River
The transparent waters of the Blackfoot River are home to a thriving population of indigenous west slope cutthroat trout, always eager to surface for a carefully cast dry fly during the fly fishing season. Their abundance is a testament to the promising fishing prospects this river offers.
Big rainbow and brown trout also do well in the Blackfoot River. They are typically visible during the abundant stonefly hatches in the summer and excellent streamer fly fishing in the early and late parts of the season.
Native Bull Trout are frequently caught incidentally during streamer fly fishing. However, as an endangered species, anglers do not purposefully aim to catch them. These fish represent a glimpse into the past and should be preserved.
During fly fishing season, the trout in the Blackfoot River, including the cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout, appear eager to take well-presented flies by rising to the surface. Single dry and dry-dropper are the top choices, but some anglers switch to streamers when targeting big trout. The fast-flowing streams and rugged shores often result in continuous excitement, making this river one of the top hidden fishing spots for Montana fly fishing.
Many branches of the Blackfoot River, such as the North Fork, provide excellent fly fishing opportunities and are essential components of numerous excursions. Many anglers mostly fish the Blackfoot River using custom fly fishing rafts and drift boats and frequently include floating and fishing in the tributaries during trips. Drifting down the Box Canyon of the Blackfoot River is a cherished treasure in Montana, with its impressive scenery sure to awe even experienced anglers.
The Blackfoot River's fly fishing season operates from April to October, but peak seasons span from the middle of June to the middle of September.
During this time, you can anticipate regular appearances of stoneflies, mayflies, caddisflies, and terrestrials all season long. Meanwhile, the yearly salmon fly emergence on the Blackfoot River starts in mid-late June, right after the spring thaw decreases, providing thrilling fly fishing opportunities for anglers of any skill level.
Madison River Fly Fishing
As it flows from Yellowstone National Park to the Missouri River, the Madison River presents a wide range of water types and can change significantly in its nature. It’s one of the hidden fly fishing spots for Montana fly fishing, adored by many anglers.
Various parts of the river provide diverse habitats, landscapes, insect hatches, and fishing methods. The Madison can feel like a different river, depending on your location. The diversity in this renowned fishing spot is just one of the reasons why it remains one of Montana's most reliable rivers.
It is popular among both amateur fishermen and professionally guided fishing excursions. While specific parts of the river may have their own best times for fishing, there is typically a spot along the Madison River that offers good fishing all year round.
The Madison River provides various reliable fly fishing opportunities in Montana. It runs through a picturesque valley bordered by the tall Madison, Gravelly, and Tobacco Root mountain ranges. The stunning landscape, abundant trout population, opportunity for large fish, and closeness to Yellowstone National Park make this a must-visit river for any dedicated fly angler.
The Lower Madison covers the stretch from Warm Springs access to Three Forks. Most fishing and floating activities occur between Warm Springs and the Black's Ford or Greycliff fishing access sites.
Trout numbers decrease rapidly past Greycliff because of the warm summer temperatures, although some sizable trout are still in the lower sections.
The Lower Madison River provides fishing opportunities in spring and fall, while summer trout fishing is not ethical due to the warm water temperatures.
Fishing here is typically best from February to early July and from mid-September to December in most years. The Lower Madison is a decent winter fishing spot if the wind isn't too strong.
The section between Warm Springs and Blacks Ford is famous for its many large weed beds and has a gentle slope. You can find excellent hidden fishing spots around weed beds, where trout are either on top of them or in the depressions and channels within the weeds.
The Lower section of the river also has bursts of baetis, PMDs, Yellow Sallies, and caddis. Plenty of underground food sources, such as crayfish, can deter trout from rising for hatching insects. Despite rainbows on the surface, fishing with crayfish or streamer patterns below the surface is often the most effective way to catch large fish.
Gallatin River Fly Fishing
The Gallatin River is a distinguished river that starts in Yellowstone National Park and is one of the top hidden fishing spots for Montana fly fishing.
In the high parts of its course, the river winds through a stunning mountainous setting in the Gallatin Canyon. Once it emerges from the canyon, it flows into the Gallatin Valley, transforming into a grassy river bordered by cottonwood trees.
The Gallatin is a scenic river with clear water and abundant trout. Although it is not renowned for trophy trout like larger rivers nearby, its charm and intimate size attract many anglers of any skill level. And because of the large number of trout, this river frequently results in quick fishing and high success rates.
Wade fishing is allowed in the Gallatin, except for the lower section. Occasionally, anglers utilize little rafts on the river to shuttle between hidden fishing spots where you can disembark and fish while wading.
The river's characteristics undergo significant shifts in four zones: within the park, the canyon, the Greater Gallatin Valley, and the lower end where it meets the Missouri. So ensure you and your gear are in good condition before setting up for your next Montana fly-fishing trip here.
Yellowstone River Fly Fishing
The Yellowstone River is the longest continuous flowing river in the contiguous United States and one of North America's most successful wild trout habitats. It may not be one of the hidden fishing spots, but it’s one of the gems for Montana fly fishing.
This vast river flows through a major portion of Yellowstone National Park and its wilderness. The powerful "Stone" provides over 200 miles of excellent trout habitats with different fish types and water features. Numerous enthusiastic fishermen view this large and occasionally turbulent river as Montana's ultimate fly fishing adventure.
A Yellowstone River fishing excursion offers an abundance of trout, including large specimens and a variety of species, stunning views, and a diverse selection of unique sections, each with its characteristics to explore.
The method of fishing at the Stone is traditional western fishing in large bodies of water. Effective techniques usually include using big rabbit fur streamers and large foam attractor dry flies.
While wade fishing is possible in the park and some other spots, the large body of water is best suited for float fishing from rafts and drift boats.
The Yellowstone River in Montana is known for its wide range of water levels and fishing conditions, making it one of the most fluctuating rivers in the state. Throwing a fly on the ‘Stone at 11,000 cfs compared to 1,500 cfs creates a significantly varied experience.
Although it can take years for a fly fisher to fully grasp the beauty of the Yellowstone River, many anglers favor it due to its diverse fishing opportunities, constantly changing character and high quality.
Fly Fishing in the Bitterroot River
The Bitterroot River in Montana is a highly intriguing spot for fly fishing enthusiasts and is one of the top hidden fishing spots for Montana fly fishing.
The Bitterroot is known for its excellent fly fishing and beautiful scenery. Traveling south along the river, the Sapphire Mountains, considered one of Montana's most picturesque mountain ranges, will surround you.
It provides a distinctive fly fishing experience in Montana. Large enough to effortlessly stay afloat, the wading experience is outstanding, featuring fish of significant size. The Bitterroot River, fed mainly by snowmelt, is a freestone river with an average of 700 trout per mile, including trout larger than 23 inches caught annually.
Montana fly fishing may seem simple, but some guides refer to it as the "Betternot" due to the challenging nature of catching Bitterroot trout that refuse to bite once they close their mouths.
It may be the toughest river locally, and catching a few fish on certain days is a significant achievement. However, that is where its appeal lies. There are no guarantees on the Bitterroot River—some days, you must put in effort for every catch.
However, this only enhances the unique sensation experienced when you are present at the right moment and location. The Bitterroot River is an extraordinary location, with numerous attractions to draw visitors—views, fly fishing, and the opportunity for a memorable day with an impressive hatch.
Montana Fly Fishing with The Bitterroot Mile Club
The thrill and serenity of Montana fly fishing are combined with luxury at Bitterroot Mile Club. Picture waking up to the sound of flowing water only a few steps from your doorstep.
At TBMC, it’s not about large crowds or shared places. You will be surrounded by stunning Rocky Mountain foothills, with only your family or friends nearby. Visitors enjoy luxury and elegance at contemporary mountain retreats with exclusive hot tubs and gourmet dishes from nearby chefs.
Fishing for trout from March to November or hitting the slopes during winter, there's always something to do here. Guided tours are accessible to all individuals. Beginner fishers and experienced veterans alike can discover the top hidden fishing spots for a memorable Montana fly fishing experience, relishing in the unique opportunity for peacefulness.
Bring maps and a compass for your ultimate Montana fly-fishing adventure. But make sure you’re familiar with the regulations for each body of water, as they can quickly change. Plan your visit when the rivers are not too full but flowing steadily, typically shortly after spring or early autumn.
Choose light rods; a nine-foot-six-weight is the ideal Western option. Remember that the weather changes rapidly in the mountains, so bring multiple layers and keep dry with high-quality waders, essential for cold streams!
Your Next Montana Fly Fishing Trip Awaits at TBMC!
The Bitterroot Mile Club provides an exceptional opportunity for anglers of any skill level. Clear waters are filled with fish in this place, and the stunning scenery leaves you in awe. Whether you're fishing in the early morning or late evening, every moment seems enchanting.
Book your trip with us for an amazing, unforgettable adventure in the picturesque beauty of Montana!