Damn Good Bozeman Fishing Guides

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Bozeman, Mt

Fishing in Destin
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River, Lake Fishing Trip in Bozeman

Finest Fly-Fishing Guides - Bozeman

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15 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Bozeman

Madison River Float Fishing

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16 ft 1 - 4 People From $230
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Gallatin River Walk-n-Wade

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Yellowstone River Fish Frenzy

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14 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Ennis Lake Full-Day Jet Boat

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Yellowstone River Float

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $500

Top Types of Trips in Bozeman

Top Species for Fishing in Bozeman

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Target Species in Bozeman

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  • Get it while it's HOT!
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River Fishing Guides In Bozeman, Mt

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Bozeman

Madison River Float Fishing

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16 ft 1 - 4 People From $230
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Half Day Walk And Wade

100% (1)
1 - 3 People From $325
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Bozeman

Finest Fly-Fishing Guides - Bozeman

NEW
15 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Full Day Float (Multiple Rivers)

100% (1)
1 - 2 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Overnight Day Trip (Peak Season)

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1 - 2 People From $790
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Multi-Night At Stonefly Lodge

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Lake Fishing Guides In Bozeman, Mt

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Hebgen Lake Full-Day Jet Boat

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Gallatin Valley Float Trips

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1 - 2 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Ennis Lake Float Trip

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Bozeman

Madison River Float Fishing

NEW
16 ft 1 - 4 People From $230
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Bozeman

Finest Fly-Fishing Guides - Bozeman

NEW
15 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Ennis Lake Full-Day Jet Boat

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $750

More Fishing Guides In Bozeman, Mt

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Half Day Walk And Wade

100% (1)
1 - 3 People From $325
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Overnight Day Trip (Peak Season)

NEW
1 - 2 People From $790
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Madison River Float Trip

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Gibbon River Walk-n-Wade

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Bozeman

Multi-Night At Stonefly Lodge

NEW
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

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Yellowstone River Full-Day Jet Boat

100% (7)
1 - 2 People From $750
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Bozeman

What are the best fishing trips in Bozeman?

Why should I book a fishing trip in Bozeman with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 4 trips in Bozeman, and the most popular trips in the area are Finest Fly-Fishing Guides - Bozeman guided by Michael and Madison River Float Fishing guided by Dylan.

Our guides in Bozeman are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3679 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Bozeman? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Bozeman.

What types of fishing trips are common in Bozeman?

River fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Bozeman as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Bozeman are: 1. brown trout, 2. rainbow trout, 3. cutthroat trout, 4. brook trout, and 5. carp.

The most common fishing techniques in Bozeman are fly fishing, drift fishing, and wading but artificial lure fishing and light tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Bozeman fishing trip cost?

Prices in Bozeman can range anywhere from about $500 to $2,118, but the average price for a half day trip in Bozeman is $658. The average price for a full day trip in Bozeman is $1,300.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Bozeman?

The most popular season for fishing in Bozeman is summer, and most anglers book their trips 21 days in advance.

Do I need a Bozeman fishing license and what are the bag limits in Bozeman?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Bozeman, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Bozeman. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Bozeman.

Fly Fishing Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman, Montana is the gateway to some of the best fly fishing the continental US has to offer. With several rivers and streams to choose from and an abundance of huge trout, we can see why people come back year after year. This place is known as the trout fishing capital of the world and with so many top-notch rivers it’s easy to see why.

The rivers of the Gallatin Valley and the surrounding area provide some of the best trout fishing in the country. The area is known to cater to all kinds of fly fishermen and women, from the dry-fly die-hard to the nymph lovers to the streamer anglers.

What to Catch in Bozeman?

With so many bodies of water near Bozeman, there are many different environments for a wide range of fish to thrive in. Fish species commonly found near Bozeman include brown, rainbow, bull, cutthroat, and golden trout, as well as arctic grayling. If you intend to keep and eat your catch make sure to check the regulation where you plan to fish because some of the species are catch and release only. All of these species are stunning with beautiful colorations and distinct markings which only add to the natural beauty of the landscape.

Fishing Spots Near Bozeman, MT

Bozeman is surrounded by a multitude of world-class trout rivers and other fishing spots each with its own quirks and challenges. There are several major rivers, many lakes, and a network of spring creeks that also offer incredible fishing opportunities all over the Bozeman area. The rivers include Madison, Yellowstone, Gallatin, Missouri, Beaverhead, and Ruby rivers with unique differences between them all. There are several spring creeks in the area that provide high-quality trout fishing opportunities.

If you are an angler dedicated to fly fishing then Bozeman is a must-visit destination. Whether you are dedicated to dry flies, streamers, or nymphs there is a body of water with plenty of rod bending action. With so many places to make a cast and an abundance of fish to catch, there is nothing that can compare.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Matt was a terrific guide. Really enjoyed our conversations. I want to book with Matt again next June! Nate was great in that he communicated with me right away and provided information I needed for the trip. Overall a terrific experience. Would highly recommend to others

    Robin B. | September 18, 2024

    Trip: Hebgen Lake Full-Day Jet Boat

  • ★★★★★
    It was a great trip with Nate.

    Brian H. | August 3, 2024

    Trip: Madison River Float Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great float trip!

    Emmet D. | July 18, 2024

    Trip: Yellowstone River Float

  • ★★★★★
    Jordan is an absolute Master of his craft. His understanding of fish is unparralled. Honestly its like he is one. The yellowstone was blown out due to heavy rains so we audibled to a 17 mile float on the Lower Madison. We fished a new and totally unique set of techniques fishing indicators with crayfish pattern followed by a nymph. He told me exactly when to mend, when to let the flies drag a hair, and when to re adjust with a new cast to get the perfect action on the flies. I missed a lot of big eats and landed some beautiful (and fat) rainbows and browns! Back at the ramp no one had the succes we did. I learn so much from Jordan everytime im out there. Can’t reccomend booking a trip with him enough.

    David I. | September 26, 2023

    Trip: Yellowstone River Float Trips

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was great, from beginning to end. Ian was very helpful on the phone booking the trip, especially since we only booked it the night before. Nate and his team were helpful, and Matt was particularly generous with his time. His enthusiasm for his job and for our trip were contagious. We had a beautiful day on the water and had some success with the fishing, but the trip would have been great even if they weren’t biting that day.

    Danny O. | July 21, 2022

    Trip: Gallatin River Walk-n-Wade

  • ★★★★★
    One of the things I wanted to be dang sure I did while I was there was fish the Yellowstone in a drift boat, and was lucky enough to get it done. With lots of fishing travel under my belt you never know how it will go and in this case the plan came together and it was a good day to be alive. The Boss and I met our guide Nathan at the ramp at 8:00 and it was not long before we were on the water. The Boss and I are really fly fishing neophytes with lots to learn and Nathan was a perfect guide and teacher for our day on the water. He has fished those rivers for 35 years, was patient, technically proficient, and just an overall good guy to spend the day with. As I noticed in the park there were lots of grasshoppers and it turned out to be our plan for the day. In my case catching any particular fish on topwater is the bomb, and we spent most of the day fishing larger hoppers with a smaller floating “something or other” on a dropper around 8″ behind. And it was so interesting to see the fish react. A few smashed it, (At least for a trout.) most barely slurped it under, and others could not resist rolling on it, or just taking a look. It took me a bit to get the hang of setting the hook like you need to and after a while I managed to toss a couple of small rainbows completely over the boat. It really was a new way to fish for us and it took a while to get the hang of it but I intend to put those lessons to work in Colorado when I head there this fall. Since this was our 5 or 6th run at it the Boss commented that each place and method was different, it is all part of the learning process. I probably went about 10 for 20 with one whitefish, the Boss struggled. So late in the day Nathan put us on a nymph rig with an indicator. (Or as we regular folks call it, a bobber.) He wanted to be sure the Boss caught a fish and she finally boated a rainbow and a native whitefish. But the Boss was happy just sitting in the back and enjoying the day and the view, but I give her credit, she kept casting like a trooper. He was so patient as we tangled, crossed, casted like the rookies we are, and he just continued to act like the professional he is. (Except we all laughed like crazy when at one point when we were thrashing multiple messes he said; “Stop casting!”) Of course I told him I would trash him here so let me do it now – One of the best guides to spend the day with I have had the pleasure to fish with. So take that homie. From the Great Barrier reef, Belize, Colorado we have fished with our share and today was one of the best all around experiences we have ever had. The fishing was not fast by any means, but the bite was consistent. I was not surprised by the number of refusals with the traffic and it being late in the season. Nathan made several fly changes during the day until we finished the day with the nymph rig and put the last couple in the boat. He worked hard to put me on a little bigger fish and his efforts were appreciated. Probably if I would have bullshitted less and fished harder I might have boated one of the better fish I missed, but I could have cared less as numbers were not the reason for the day. Being a Saturday there was quite a bit of traffic, but it is a big river, and when compared to Froggie’s on the weekend no big deal. Of course we had a few incidents where both guides and the public cut us off, or were just plain were clueless. (Sound familiar you coastal boys?) As you know one of my rules to live by on our busy waterways – Be nice, be the bigger man, and just because you have the right of way let them go. Nathan naturally lives and practices that making our day on the water pleasant and fun and he is a credit to the profession. I can be pretty hard on guides. It really was comfortable fishing from the drift boat. The Boss loved the safe manner he operated and being able to stand up and cast from the leaning post, or whatever it is called. I learned a lot about the drift boat and how it preforms on the water. As we accelerate our search for our place in the mountains Montana has made the list. Of all the places I have fished Montana gets an A+ for the access available to the public. (So thanks Nathan for offering to be my new best friend and take me fishing all the time if we end up in the area. At least I thought I heard him say that!) And a big thanks to Jonathan of Captain Experiences for booking and following up on our trip. The home of Damn Good Fishing Guides, this site has guides all over the country and they lived up to their name when they hooked us up with Nathan. Nathan guides out of Bozeman, Montana, fishing the Yellowstone, Madison, and a couple of other great Montana rivers. Nate, the owner, kept us informed with a full written itinerary, with constant follow up both before and after the trip. It was a professional job all the way around. So if you are looking for a guide anywhere, or wanting to fish the Yellowstone area, give Jonathan a call and he will put you with the best. Overall a first class trip. So when it is all said and done it was a great way to spend a day along with our park expedition. And here is a taste of what is next, as soon as I organize all of the park stuff. We saw almost everything we wanted to this trip and were so fortunate to see the wolves everyday along with enough wildlife to keep us happy. (For a while!) And to Nathan, I have added the Madison to my bucket list. Thanks for reading my stuff.

    Doug C. | September 4, 2020

    Trip: Yellowstone River Float

  • ★★★★★
    Had a really great time fishing the Yellowstone, Upper Madison on drift boats. Caught nice browns and rainbows. Wades the Gallatin and caught nice fish on dry flies. Our guide was Matt and he was great to work with not to mention he’s a trained chef so the lunches were fantastic. Highly recommend these trips. The booking process was simple and effective thanks to Captain Experiences.

    Jay W. | August 25, 2019

    Trip: Full Day Float (Multiple Rivers)

How are fishing conditions in Bozeman?

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