Montana Troutfitters is Bozeman’s oldest fly fishing shop Since 1978

Nov 25, 2025

Winter is here and water temps have dropped into the 30's. Fish have officially moved into their winter grounds. They will be stacked up in deep slow runs. If you find one fish, you will probably find a load of them.

Fish conserve energy this time of year but will feed on smaller aquatic bugs such as zebra midge, rainbow warrior, small rubber legs, lite brite perdigon along with worms and the last of the egg bite. If you're not picking fish up, you're probably not deep enough. Adjust your depth before switching fly's and don't be afraid to use a little split shot.

Winter tips:

  • Fish the warmest parts of the day
  • Use a wading staff for stability and to check ice thickness
  • Winter fishing can be tough on the body, dress in layers and stay warm
  • Keep your rod and reel out of the water to eliminate your guides and reel from freezing
  • Use a net to land fish, having cold wet hands is the easiest way to end a day of fishing
  • Minimize fish handling and land fish quickly.


View USGS Streamflows

Fly Pattern Suggestions

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Dries:

Parachute adams , Midge clusters size 18-22

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Nymphs:

Pats Rubber Legs, Perdigons, Lil spankers, zebra midges, rainbow warrior, pheasant tail, Hares ear

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Streamers:

Sculpzilla, Baby Gonga, Sparkle Minnow, Mini dungeon, wooly bugger

Other River Reports

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