Billings Montana fly fishing guide and Instruction for Rainbow and Brown Trout.

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Billings Montana Fly Fishing Guide

Thinking of fly fishing in Montana ? How do you choose where to go for your Montana fly fishing vacation? The answer is to choose an outfitting service that tailors a fishing trip to your interests and skill level.

Jeremy Gilbertson is an experienced Billings Montana fly fishing guide that specializes in Bighorn and Yellowstone river forays for BIG FISH.

Jeremy also employs a network of highly skilled guides if your passion is to fish one of Montana's superb western rivers like the Madison or Missouri rivers.

Big Sky Fly Fishers is a Billings Montana fly fishing guide that works to provide many lodging options from self-service cooking, to fully catered accommodations.

We will work hard to create the Montana fly fishing trip of a lifetime. My sincere hope, is that you will come and see for yourself the wonder that is the Montana outdoors. I must warn you, though, you may never want to go home.

Bighorn River Fly Fishing

F lowing out of Yellowtail dam might be the finest tailwater fishery in the United States. I like to describe the Bighorn as a giant spring creek. Most people comment on the amazing water clarity, as well as the abundant aquatic vegetation. Its gentle current, and gravel bottom create a very wader friendly river. Like a spring creek, the dry fly fishing can be spotty, and extremely technical. The nymphing, however, is consistent and can net many big fish if done correctly. It can both spoil the beginner, and challenge the proficient angler.

Yellowstone River Fly Fishing

The Yellowstone River is the quintessential Montana river. Author Dave Hughes once called it the "Yankee Stadium" of fly fishing. With the Yellowstone being the longest free flowing river in the lower 48 states, it takes on a beautiful and wild personality. The first significant hatch would be the Mother's day Caddis, that can be unbelievable. In early summer, conditions may be right to chase Salmonflies on the upper river, but in late summer or early fall, I prefer fishing the lower stretches with big dries, and ugly streamers. The Yellowstone offers less fish per mile, and possibly less consistent fishing, but as you're the only boat in sight, watching the eagles fly and the deer try to sneak away, that big brown is going to explode out of the water to eat your #6 Hopper, and all will be right in the world.

Madison River Fly Fishing

The Madison River is flat out legendary. It's the dream of most flyfishermen to fish this river one day. It is commonly referred to as the "hundred mile riffle", because of its consistent depth and gradient. This can be confusing, in forming a plan of attack, but it can also feel that much more incredible to see these fish appear from seemingly nowhere. This type of water begs to be fished with big dry flies in summer, or sculpins in the fall. If this is your ideal river experience, than the Madison is for you.

Missouri River Fly Fishing

The Missouri River is another one of Montana's great tailwater fisheries. It contrasts the Bighorn, in that it is bigger, flatter, and can be harder to read. The water temperature fluctuates more, which can make it less reliable of a late summer fishery, but can make the July dry fly fishing absolutely unforgettable, and October Caddis that can blow your mind. Like the Bighorn, it is a consistent nymphing river that holds more than its fair share of big fish. A great choice for the intermediate to skilled angler. Many of the items listed below will be provided by your guide, however we do recommend them for personal convenience. Flies, Leaders, Tippets, and split shot will be provided on your trip, however it is a good idea to bring what you have if you want to fish after your trip is done. A hearty lunch will be provided, as well as non-alcoholic drinks.

Big Sky Fly Fishers has partnered with some of the best lodging operations in Montana. We strive to provide the best selection of options for your fly fishing adventure.

Bighorn Lodging Options
The Leaning Tree Lodge (Pictured)
Owned and operated by Mark and Rachel Stroda

All rooms are cleaned daily and provide the option for a full meal plan. Each room includes two double beds and a private bathroom.

Madison and Upper Yellowstone Lodging
We are proud to have partnered with one of the finest fly fishing lodges in the Bozeman area.

Recommended personal gear for trip: