The fabled Trout rivers of Montana have captured the imaginations of anglers across the world. From the legendary Madison to the mighty Missouri, there are endless miles of productive water to explore. While many other species roam the waters here, Trout are the most common quarry for many anglers. But what makes Trout fishing in Montana so special?
I may be biased as this is my home state, but there’s truly some amazing angling action to be had. From the best techniques to the top waters, I’ll take you on a journey through Montana’s iconic Trout fishing scene so that you can know what to expect when you visit “Big Sky Country.”
Why go Trout fishing in Montana?
If you have any interest in Trout fishing, you’ve probably heard of Montana and at least a few of the famous rivers and lakes in the state. Montana is unique because the state made a decision to stop stocking Trout in most rivers in the 1970s. But don’t worry! They studied Trout behavior and found reproduction and resilience were more successful with wild fish.
By today, Montana has numerous rivers that are absolutely loaded with wild Trout. They’re healthy and reproduce in great numbers year after year. Additionally, all the river beds are public in the state! This means you can use a public access point to wade or float through private property, so long as you remain below the legal high water mark.
The big valleys, beautiful mountains, abundant wildlife, and great access to fishing make Montana a place you’ll want to experience and fish at some point.
Top Trout Species in Montana
While Montana boasts great fishing for Pike, Bass, and other species, it’s the sheer diversity of Trout that stands out here. It’s a big state with diverse fisheries and wonderful landscapes to explore. And here are the stars of the show:
Cutthroat Trout
The primary native Trout species in Montana is the Cutthroat – and there are a couple of different varieties. The Westslope Cutthroat is abundant all over, especially thriving west of the Continental Divide. Meanwhile, the Yellowstone Cutthroat is the other major species, found throughout southwest Montana and beyond. Both are distinct-looking and very beautiful. They love eating dry flies and offer action for anglers throughout the year.
Brown Trout
If there’s one species that Montanans seem to love above all else, it’s Brown Trout. Where Cutthroats are native and beloved, the talk post-fishing almost always tends to center around Browns! These fish are prolific in most rivers and the lower-elevation river systems can grow some very large fish. Brown Trout overlap with Rainbows, Cutthroats, and other native and introduced species throughout the state.
Rainbow Trout
You might be surprised to learn that Rainbow Trout are actually native to Montana! A population is actually native to the Kootenai River in the far northwest part of the state. These days, though, you’ll find them far beyond their native range, with Rainbows across the state. However, they grow particularly large in the Kootenai River below the dam where mysis shrimp are expelled from the reservoir.
Brook Trout
Brook Trout have less of a presence in Montana than in Colorado and some other states, but they certainly aren’t absent. You’ll find Brookies in backcountry lakes and streams, primarily, while some major rivers like the Big Hole and Rock Creek also have populations high in the river systems. They aren’t always top of the list for visitors but don’t be surprised if you run across a great fishery while exploring remote streams and lakes.
Bull Trout
Technically, Bull Trout are Char. But they’re worth mentioning because they reach large sizes and they live in the same cold water as other Trout species. Oh, and they’re named “Trout”! Unlike real Trout, however, Bull Trout will migrate great distances both seasonally and to spawn. Beware, though – it’s illegal to target them in many waters but you’re likely to catch them incidentally while chasing Trout.
How to Go Trout Fishing in Montana
Montana is often associated with fly fishing – and rightfully so. The state boasts incredible hatches, and many rivers and lakes are limited to barbless hooks. But don’t leave your spinning gear behind! Casting lures, jigs, and even baits is a great way to fish in many places.
Some lakes have huge Trout, where trolling is a great way to find them. Below reservoirs, dam-fed waters will hold a variety of species. You can run bait, jigs, or lures while catching Walleye, Trout, Burbout, and more.
Where to Go Trout Fishing in Montana
Let’s talk about the unique opportunities to explore in each region. The iconic rivers are worth the trip but they’re far from the only game in the state. Look at the blue lines and dots on the map and get busy fishing! While Trout don’t occupy every waterway, they have a presence in many…
Southwest Montana
This is where a good chunk of the best Trout fishing is found. A few central towns include Dillon, Ennis, West Yellowstone, and Bozeman, as they’re all close to incredible waters. Yellowstone National Park, Hebgen Lake, and the Madison River can occupy weeks of your time! The mighty Yellowstone River is also incredible during its summer and fall flows, which, with the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Gallatin, and a rash of other rivers and lakes, will get you lost in Southwest Montana!
Northwest Montana
Look to Missoula for some of the best dry fly fishing in the state. The Clark Fork and Bitterroot Rivers are both excellent, while Rock Creek is another classic float in June when salmonflies take over the river. Flathead Lake, the Flathead River system, and Glacier National Park make up some of the wildest places in the west. Meanwhile, in the far Northwest, the powerful Kootenai River is another fantastic fishery to consider.
Central and Eastern Fisheries
The Missouri River forms in Southwest Montana and takes a path north, then east, onto the plains. From the headwaters in the southwest to the famed tailwater below Holter Lake, Trout abound. Rainbows and Browns are the primary targets, with many specimens growing to impressive sizes.
As the Missouri River moves east, it becomes more of a warm water fishery, but, if you drive a little off the beaten track, you’ll find some excellent Trout fisheries. The island mountain ranges offer high country opportunities, while places like Lewistown have access to Big Spring Creek. The Big Horn River is also a world-class tailwater that every angler should visit.
Trout Fishing Seasons in Montana
The majority of Trout fishing in Montana kicks off in early summer and lasts through fall. The third Saturday in May marks the general season opener for most rivers and streams in the state. However, anglers also enjoy ice out on the lakes which can take place in March or April.
Early summer brings the biggest hatch events with salmonflies and big caddis hatches at this time of year. The bugs last all summer when Montana boasts great dry fly fishing in general. Fall gets the big Brown Trout moving and offers more opportunities for trophy fish.
While winter is slower, you can try ice fishing or brave the elements to fish open water on places like the Missouri River. Watch the weather closely and choose mild days for floats and wade fishing below the dams.
Montana Trout Fishing Regulations
Regardless of how you fish, a Montana fishing license is mandatory. You can grab one online with ease or hit a local sporting goods store. However, you’ll also want to pay special attention to other regulations, such as opening dates…
Many rivers and streams have seasons and don’t open until the third Saturday in May. Others are open year-round, however, offering fishing whenever. Some rivers also have limited dates of access for non-residents, while some restrict access on weekends to help curb pressure and crowding.
Luckily, the regulations clearly state the rules for each river and lake, including any exceptions. These are easy to find and don’t apply to every place you fish. If one river is closed for a day out of the week, finding an alternative requires little planning. Just hit a side creek or nearby lake for variety!
Montana Trout Fishing FAQs
Put Montana on Your Fish List!
Montana is typically high on the priority list for traveling Trout anglers in the western US. The famous waters don’t disappoint and there are plenty of others to cast into between the big stops. There are many other states and places to explore but Big Sky Country is hard to beat. Come and visit to get your fish on in style!
Are you a Montana local or Trout fishing expert? We’d love to hear about your favorite Trout experiences in the state. Swap your stories in the comment below!
