Winter in the valley can be deceiving. Water, runoff, and timing matters higher up, in the places most people never see.
The Boulder and Stillwater are both worth watching, but they do not fish their best at the same times or for the same travel plans. This is a straightforward look at which river makes more sense based on timing, where you are staying, and the kind of day you want.
FISHING REPORT
Spring Baetis are showing on the Yellowstone River near Livingston, Paradise Valley, Emigrant, and Big Timber. Here is a simple dry dropper program, a brown trout story with guide Matt Kelly, and spring trip timing for the Yellowstone.
A lot of Montana trips end up with one person wanting to fish and another wanting a scenic float. This explains how Swan’s Fly Fishing and Montana Classic Boat Tours run both at the same time on the Yellowstone so the group stays together.
FLY FISHING EDUCATION
Private rowing lessons on the Yellowstone River near Livingston and Bozeman, Montana. Learn drift boat, raft, and river rowing skills with one-on-one instruction.
Professional Affiliations & Conservation Partners
