Spring Creeks Fishing Report 10/4/2021 – Fins and Feathers Bozeman
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Spring Creeks Fly Fishing Reports

Spring Creeks Fishing Report 10/4/2021

    Current Conditions

    There are a variety of midge and baetis hatches on the spring creeks. Midges are hatching in the morning. Make sure to bring long (9-12ft) light leaders (5x-6x) for the small bugs present on the streams. Nymphing can be a good option if there are no fish active on the surface. Use unweighted pheasant tails, zebra midges, and BWO nymphs/emergers. BWOs will likely come off in good numbers before too long. Especially with the cool and wet weather in the forecast. Be sure to have a variety of sizes of bother emergers, spinners, and duns for your baetis patterns to make the most out of the hatch.

    Learn about the fall BWO hatch

    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

    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.