Spring Creeks Fishing Report 10/1/2020 – Fins and Feathers Bozeman
Close x
View All Spring Creeks River Reports
Spring Creeks Fly Fishing Reports

Spring Creeks Fishing Report 10/1/2020

    Current Conditions

    The spring creeks around Livingston have been good. Fish are still rising to some smaller terrestrial patterns like hoppers, ants, and beetles. Baetis and midge fishing will be the may attraction for the next month or so. If you enjoy small streams and technical dry fly fishing for good sized trout, look no further. The hatches will be thicker in wet and low light conditions, so look at the weather before you head here if you are looking for surface action. Nymphing baetis, midges, and scuds can be good as well. Long leaders, light tippet for dries, and fluorocarbon for subsurface fishing. Fish natural patterns like a BWO Quill Gordon or a Last Chance BWO. Fish here can be very picky so it is a good idea to have a variety of imitations and different patterns for different life cycles of the hatch you want to match.



    COVID 19 COMMUNICATIONS – July 31, 2020

    • Store capacity is limited to 5 guests
    • Purchase fishing licenses online at fwp.mt.gov (we are now selling licenses as well, but ask that you try online first)
    • Face coverings are mandatory – we have them available if needed.
    • Respect social distancing and use provided hand sanitizer.

    SPECIAL OFFERINGS

    • Order online and select Pickup at checkout for curbside service
    • Call us at 406-586-2188 to place your order over the phone fro curbside service.
    • Book a time for private shopping.
    • Buy Flies online and save 20% (enter FLIES_20 at checkout in the Discount Code field)
    • Keep in mind you can shop all of our flies online for both shipping and curbside pickup.

    The Livingson Area Spring Creeks have limited rod availability. Be sure to call and make a reservation before you make the drive. Nelson's-(406) 222-6560, Armstrong's-(406) 222-2979, DePuy's-(406) 222-0221

    The Spring Creeks are a great option whenever paradise valley is not crazy windy. There has not been much for dry fly action recently but the midges should be coming in a few weeks or so. The BWO's won't be far behind. For best success use flies such as WD-40, RS2s, Zebra Midges, Manhattan Midge, Tube Midge, Jujubee Flash Midge, sowbugs/scuds, worms, and caddis larva. Long leaders and light tippet in Fluorocarbon can be a game changer for these fish, make sure you are well equipped to get technical on these trout if headed this way. 

    Recommended Guided Trips

    Full-Day Guided Trip

    Full Day guided fly-fishing trips are our standard offering and offer the best opportunity to truly get out and experience the fly-fishing opportunities around Bozeman that attract anglers from around the world

    • Typical Full Day Trips Are 6-8 Hours in Duration
    • 1-2 Anglers Maximum Per Guide/Boat
    • Full Day Trips Are Generally Float Trips
    • Full Day Trips Available on Yellowstone, Madison, Gallatin, and Jefferson rivers
    • Drive Time Is Typically 30-60 Minutes Each Way
    • Fishing Licenses and Gratuities Are Not Included
    Learn More

    Half-Day Guided Trip

    Looking for a quick introduction to fly fishing or only have a few hours to get out on the water with one of our fly fishing guides? A half-day float on the lower Madison is likely to be the perfect choice.

    • Half-Day Trips Are 3-4 Hours in Duration
    • 1-2 Anglers Maximum Per Guide/Boat
    • Half-Day Float Trips On The Lower Madison River Only
    • Ideal For Families With Small Children (6+ Years Old)
    • Fishing Licenses and Gratuities Are Not Included
    • Tackle and Drinks are Include
    • Waders and Boots are available for rent ($25 per person) or purchase - we recommend bringing your own or pack light rain pants if the forecast calls for rain as we rarely need waders during the guide season.
    Learn More

    Fishing Licenses and Shuttle Info

    The Livingston Area Spring Creeks have limited rod availability. Be sure to call and make a reservation before you make the drive.

    Nelson's: 406.222.6560

    Armstrong's: 406.222.2979

    DePuy's: 406.222.0221

    Spring Creeks River Overview

    Montana spring creeks are home to some of the most coveted wild trout waters found anywhere in the world. These small streams are spring-fed bodies of water characterized by consistent year-round water temperatures and stream flows. These stable environments provide exceptional habitat for many insect types along with the trout that feed on them. Generally speaking, there is dry fly fishing to be found just about any day of the year on the regional spring creeks.