Gallatin River
OptimalMontana
Current Conditions
The Gallatin River is running at 564 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 9:00 AM from USGS gauge 06043500 (Gallatin River near Gallatin Gateway)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 400–900 CFS | Fishable to 1800 CFS | Marginal to 3000 CFS
About the Gallatin River
The Gallatin flows out of Yellowstone National Park through a dramatic canyon before reaching the Gallatin Valley near Bozeman. Made famous by "A River Runs Through It," it's a freestone stream with excellent pocket water fishing and accessible wading.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl #6 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
River Sections
Gallatin Canyon
wade access564 CFS
Fast, boulder-strewn pocket water through the scenic canyon. Excellent wading access along Highway 191.
Gallatin Valley
wade/float access849 CFS
Meandering water through agricultural valley. Slower pace with undercut banks holding large browns.
Guides on the Gallatin River(39)
These fishing guides list the Gallatin River as one of their home waters.
Big Sky Anglers
West Yellowstone, Idaho
Angler’s West Montana Guide Service
Helena, Montana
Brant Oswald Fly Fishing Services
Livingston, Montana
C. Francis & Co. Sporting Agents
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Cache Creek Outfitters
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Campbell’s Guided Fishing Trips
Helena, Montana
Dave Corcoran Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
David Kumlien, Outfitter
Bozeman, Montana
East Slope Outdoors
Big Sky, Montana
Efferson Outfitters
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Flyshot Outfitters
Blank, MT Blank, Montana
Ford Creek Guest Ranch
Augusta, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Gallatin River?+
The Gallatin River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
How many fishing guides operate on the Gallatin River?+
Outguided lists 39 fishing guides who operate on the Gallatin River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Gallatin River?+
The Gallatin River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 400–900 CFS.
What fish species are in the Gallatin River?+
The Gallatin River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Gallatin River near Gallatin Gateway
Station #06043500
Gallatin River at Logan
Station #06052500