When Is the Best Time to Fly Fish in Montana?

If you’re planning a Montana fly fishing adventure, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: When’s the best time to go?
The good news is that Montana offers incredible fishing opportunities almost year-round — but each season brings its own unique highlights. Whether you’re chasing rising trout on dry flies, hunting big browns with streamers, or looking for solitude, there’s a season that’s perfect for you.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect throughout the Montana fishing year:

Spring Fly Fishing (April–June)

Spring brings the first major awakening of the rivers. As water temperatures rise, fish become more active after the long winter.
April and early May offer excellent pre-runoff fishing, with trout eagerly feeding on nymphs and early season hatches like skwalas and blue-winged olives.

By mid-to-late May, runoff from snowmelt can make rivers high and muddy, but there are still great fishing opportunities on lakes, tailwaters such as the Missouri River, and smaller creeks. June sees rivers beginning to stabilize, with excellent nymphing and early dry fly action picking up again.

Highlights:

• Pre-runoff fishing can be lights out
• Good chance at bigger fish feeding aggressively
• Less angling pressure early in the season

Summer Fly Fishing (July–August)

When people picture Montana fly fishing, they’re often thinking about summer — and for good reason.
July kicks off prime dry fly season with strong hatches and ideal water conditions. As the season warms, terrestrial fishing (grasshoppers, beetles, ants) becomes a major highlight.
Casting big foam hoppers along grassy banks is a Montana summer tradition!

Summer offers long days, clear water, and great weather. It’s the most popular time to fish, and for visitors looking to experience classic Montana rivers like the Flathead, Clark Fork, or Blackfoot, it’s hard to beat.

Highlights:

• Epic dry fly fishing opportunities
• Terrestrial season (hopper fishing!)
• Gorgeous weather and long fishing days

Fall Fly Fishing (September–October)

As temperatures cool and the crowds thin out, fall brings a different kind of magic to Montana waters.
Trout begin feeding aggressively in preparation for winter, making it a fantastic time for streamer fishing and bigger fish opportunities.
The rivers are low and clear, the leaves are turning, and the scenery is unbeatable.

Fall also offers great technical dry fly fishing during the warmer parts of the day, with blue-winged olives making a return.

Highlights:

• Aggressive fish chasing streamers
• Stunning fall scenery and fewer crowds
• Technical dry fly opportunities for skilled anglers

Winter Fly Fishing (November–March)

While not for the faint of heart, winter fly fishing in Montana can be surprisingly rewarding for those willing to brave the cold.
Most of the action happens during the warmest parts of the day, focusing on deep nymphing techniques.
You’ll often have entire stretches of river to yourself — and there’s something special about a crisp winter day with a few willing fish.

Highlights:

• Peaceful, uncrowded rivers
• Best fishing during midday warmth
• Great challenge for dedicated anglers

So, When Should You Come?

It really depends on what kind of fly fishing experience you want:

• Spring: Action-packed pre-runoff fishing
• Summer: Iconic Montana dry fly season
• Fall: Big fish and incredible colors
• Winter: Quiet solitude and technical fishing

No matter the season, Riverstone Outfitters is ready to help you make the most of your time on the water.

Ready to plan your Montana fly fishing adventure? Book with Riverstone Outfitters today!