Montana Fly Fishing Trip Planning
Use this page as your trip HQ for Livingston, Paradise Valley, and Bozeman. Licenses, Yellowstone Park permits, live flows, weather, snowpack, packing lists, seasonal timing, travel logistics, and the most common trip questions.
You don’t need to pick a river months in advance. Book your dates first, then we match the right water to conditions, your experience level, and what you want out of the day. Trips are booked by date and guide. Rivers are chosen after booking.
Tap any button to jump straight to that section.
Fishing Licenses & Yellowstone Permits
Montana Fishing License
For trips outside Yellowstone National Park, anglers 12 and older need a valid Montana fishing license (plus standard conservation/AIS items where required).
Buy online before you arrive and keep a digital or printed copy.
Buy Montana fishing license (FWP)
Yellowstone National Park Permit
If your day includes fishing inside Yellowstone National Park, you need a separate Park fishing permit. Montana state licenses are not valid inside the Park.
Flows, Weather, Snowpack & Closures
Yellowstone River Flows
Live USGS graphs for key gauges used around Livingston and Paradise Valley.
- Near Livingston (06192500): USGS graphs
- Corwin Springs (06191500): USGS graphs
These pages show discharge/stage and are easy to read on a phone.
Bighorn River Flows
For Bighorn trips we watch the tailwater gauge below Yellowtail Afterbay near Fort Smith.
- Below Afterbay (06287000): USGS graphs
Releases here shape how the river fishes day to day.
Forecasts
Point forecasts help you plan layers, start times, and backup options.
- Livingston / Paradise Valley: NWS detailed forecast
- Bozeman area: NWS detailed forecast
Closures & Hoot Owl
If Montana FWP issues restrictions due to heat or low flows, we adjust plans to fish responsibly.
Snowpack & Runoff Timing
Snow water equivalent in the Yellowstone basin drives runoff timing on freestones. Strong snowpack usually means a longer runoff; low snowpack can mean earlier, lower flows.
Yellowstone River Live Cam
A quick look at color and general conditions near Gardiner.
Trip Planning Checklist
6–12 Months Out
- Pick season and rough dates.
- Decide if you want freestones, spring creeks, lakes, or a mix.
- Reserve guide days and any limited-access pieces early.
- Lock lodging in Livingston / Paradise Valley / Bozeman.
About 60 Days Out
- Confirm headcount and trip style (float vs wade).
- Finalize lodging and rental vehicle if needed.
- Make sure everyone can buy licenses online.
- Order any gear that needs time to ship.
Week of Your Trip
- Use flows and forecasts above to dial layers and timing.
- Buy licenses and permits.
- Check waders/boots and lay out layers + rain gear.
- Confirm meet time and location with your guide.
What to Bring
On the Water
- Rod in the 4–6 weight range (we provide gear if needed).
- Polarized sunglasses.
- Small day pack.
- Refillable water bottle.
Layers
- Rain jacket (weather changes fast here).
- Base layers you can add/remove.
- Warm hat + gloves in shoulder seasons.
- Sunscreen and a brimmed hat in summer.
Paperwork & Small Items
- Montana license and (if needed) Yellowstone permit.
- Medications and personal essentials.
- Phone charger and a small dry bag if you carry a phone.
- Cash for gratuity if you prefer.
When to Come
Spring
March and April can be excellent for technical fishing and early-season windows. Weather is variable, so layers matter more than exact temperatures.
Runoff & Early Summer
From mid May into June, freestones often run high with snowmelt. This is a great time for spring creeks, lakes, and tailwaters while we wait for freestones to settle.
Prime Summer
July through early September is classic Montana dry-fly season with long days and evening floats. Conditions shift year to year, so use the live tools above and reach out if you want a read on a specific week.
Fall & Winter
September and October bring cooler nights and stable flows. Winter is quieter and can be a great time for technical days and learning-focused trips.
Getting Here & Meeting Up
Airports
- BZN is about an hour from Livingston.
- Billings is about two hours from Livingston.
Where to Stay
Most guests base out of Livingston or Paradise Valley, with Bozeman as a solid option depending on your plan.
Meeting Your Guide
- Most days start in Livingston or at a set ramp/lot.
- Meet time depends on season, weather, and the plan.
- Ask about pickup if you’re staying close to town.
Trip Planning Questions & Answers
Click a question to expand the answer.
Do I need a Montana fishing license?
Yes. Anglers 12 and older need a valid Montana fishing license for trips outside Yellowstone National Park. Buy online before you arrive.
Do I need a separate permit inside Yellowstone National Park?
Yes. Yellowstone requires a separate Park fishing permit. Montana licenses are not valid inside the Park.
Do we pick the river when we book?
No. You book a guided day by date and guide, then we choose the best water after booking based on flows, clarity, weather, your experience level, and your goals.
What happens if it’s hot or there are restrictions?
If Montana FWP issues hoot owl restrictions or closures, we adjust start times, pivot waters, or change the plan to fish responsibly for the conditions.
What’s the easiest way to get a plan fast?
Text your dates and where you’re staying. I’ll tell you what’s most likely to be fishing best for that window. Call or text (406) 224-8972.
Book Dates, Then We Match Water
If you want a simple plan that fits your dates and your group, start with a guided day and we’ll dial the rest in from there.
Conservation & Professional Affiliations
Supporting local rivers, native trout, and long-term guide development through these organizations in the greater Livingston, Montana area.
