Spring Creeks Fishing Report 11/2/2020 – Fins and Feathers Bozeman
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Spring Creeks Fly Fishing Reports

Spring Creeks Fishing Report 11/2/2020

    Current Conditions

    The spring creeks have been fishing consistently well this last week. BWO's have been hatching on calm, overcast days. Small patterns have been the best #18 - #22 in duns. Quill Gordon's parachute has worked well for us. If the trout are a bit pickier an olive Mole Fly or BWO emerger will do the trick. Midges have been hatching daily. Griffith's Gnats, Transition Midges and Massacre Midges have been our favorite patterns for fish rising to midges. Nymphing baetis, midges, and scuds can be good as well. Long leaders, light tippet for dries, and fluorocarbon for subsurface fishing. 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 – Oct. 29, 2020

    • Store capacity is limited to 5 guests
    • Face coverings are mandatory – we have them available if needed.
    • Respect social distancing and use provided hand sanitizer.
    • We will be closed on Sundays, starting Nov. 8, 2020

    SPECIAL OFFERINGS

    • Order online and select Pickup at checkout for curbside service
    • Buy Flies online and save 20% (enter code "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.

    Purchase fishing licenses online at fwp.mt.gov (we are now selling licenses as well, but ask that you try online first)

    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.