Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone River is Montana’s crown jewel, and it holds the title of the longest undammed river in the lower 48 states. With its numerous boat ramps and expansive stretches of pristine water, the Yellowstone offers endless fishing opportunities. In fact, you could fish for two weeks without encountering the same stretch of water twice, making it a dream destination for anglers.
The river is renowned for its exceptional dry fly fishing, beginning in early June with the iconic Mother’s Day Caddis hatch. By July 4th, the river welcomes the start of summer with the legendary salmon fly hatch, quickly transitioning into "hopper season," which can last well into September. Big dry fly imitations with droppers are the standard approach, and if you love watching trout rise to a dry fly, the Yellowstone is the place for you.
For those who prefer the “tug” of a powerful fish, the Yellowstone River delivers excellent streamer fishing in the spring and fall. This technique often targets the legendary brown trout, which grow to impressive sizes in these waters. Regardless of the season, the Yellowstone offers opportunities to catch rainbows, browns, and our very own native Yellowstone cutthroat trout.
Whether you’re chasing hoppers, swinging streamers, or enjoying the thrill of dry fly fishing, the Yellowstone River promises a fishing experience like no other.
Photo credit: Josh Roper
Madison River
Fly Fishing the Lower Madison River with Swan’s Fly Fishing
The Lower Madison River is one of the most iconic and scenic fly fishing destinations in Montana. Known for its stunning beauty and consistently great fishing, it’s our go-to drift boat fishing spot in the spring. The lower reaches of the Madison offer a calm and relaxing drift, making it an ideal choice for anglers of all skill levels. With its gentle waters and picturesque landscapes, this stretch of the river provides a truly comfortable and memorable fishing experience.
As a classic tailwater, the Lower Madison offers excellent fishing year-round, thanks to regulated water flows that ensure consistency. Spring brings some of the river’s most exciting opportunities, including the renowned Mother’s Day Caddis hatch, which is a must-see event in late April through early July. The river’s abundant insect hatches, coupled with its clear, flowing waters, make it a perfect location for dry fly fishing.
When the Yellowstone River is iced over or blown out due to runoff, the Lower Madison is a reliable and productive alternative. It’s a year-round gem that promises great fishing even in challenging conditions.
For those looking for even more adventure, we also offer specialized guides for the Upper Madison River, where you can experience the legendary salmon fly hatch—a spectacle that every angler should witness at least once in their lifetime.
At Swan’s Fly Fishing, we’re passionate about sharing these exceptional waters with you. Whether you're casting in the Lower Madison's tranquil tailwaters or exploring the Upper Madison's wild hatches, we’ll ensure your time on the river is unforgettable.
Stillwater River
Fly Fishing the Stillwater River with Swan’s Fly Fishing
If the Yellowstone River is our crown jewel, then the Stillwater River is the hidden diamond in the rough. A true gem of Montana, the Stillwater challenges anglers with its swift currents and dynamic fishing opportunities. Far from "still," this river requires a level of skill and precision, as we navigate its waters in a specially designed fly fishing raft. It's an experience that demands quick thinking and sharp casting—almost like a fast-paced video game where the river keeps you on your toes, constantly moving toward the next great fishing spot.
The Stillwater River offers numerous opportunities to wade fish along its riffles, runs, and pools, allowing anglers to step out of the raft and immerse themselves in the action. Whether you're casting dry flies or targeting larger fish with streamers or nymphs, the Stillwater presents a thrilling challenge. Fishing here typically begins in mid-July and continues through August, offering ample chances to hook rainbows and browns, with average sizes ranging from 10–16 inches, though fish up to 20 inches are regularly caught.
As a tributary of the Yellowstone River, the Stillwater holds a special place in our hearts, offering a more adventurous fishing experience that rewards those willing to embrace its fast-moving waters. If you're looking for a thrilling, high-energy day on the river, the Stillwater is the perfect place to test your skills and enjoy some of Montana's best fishing.
Photo credit: Matt Swan
Depuy’s Spring Creek
Fly Fishing Depuy’s Spring Creek with Swan’s Fly Fishing
Depuy’s Spring Creek is the epitome of a classic western spring creek—a destination that passionate anglers travel far and wide to experience. It’s on the “must-fish” list of nearly every serious fly fisherman, and for good reason. I often compare fishing at Depuy’s to golfers traveling to Scotland—it's not just about catching fish, it’s about testing your skills in an iconic, challenging setting.
A guided trip on Depuy’s Spring Creek, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, will undoubtedly elevate your fishing abilities. This private fishery stretches for approximately 3 miles and is home to a healthy population of wild brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. The gin-clear waters and consistent conditions make it an exceptional location for anglers seeking a truly special experience.
What makes Depuy’s unique is its reliability. Due to the consistent water temperatures, insect hatches are predictable and plentiful year-round, offering anglers a truly unparalleled fly fishing experience. Mayflies, midges, caddis, terrestrials, and other aquatic insects create an ideal environment for fish and allow anglers to experience classic dry fly fishing, even in the winter months.
If you’re seeking a world-class fly fishing experience in a pristine, challenging setting, Depuy’s Spring Creek is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. A rod fee is required to fish the creek and is added to the guide rate, ensuring limited access to this remarkable fishery.
Photo credit: Jeff Moore
Armstrong’s Spring Creek
Fly Fishing Armstrong’s Spring Creek with Swan’s Fly Fishing
If you’ve spent any time researching fly fishing in Montana, chances are you’ve come across a stunning photo of an angler casting near the iconic “Red Barn” at Armstrong’s Spring Creek. This classic western spring creek is a bucket-list destination for seasoned anglers looking to challenge their skills while immersing themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Paradise Valley.
A guided trip to Armstrong’s—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler—will undoubtedly make you a better fisherman. The creek’s consistent water temperatures ensure predictable and plentiful insect hatches, creating an unparalleled fly fishing experience. Mayflies, midges, caddis, terrestrials, and a variety of other aquatic insects thrive in the crystal-clear waters, providing ample opportunities for dry fly fishing throughout the year.
Armstrong’s Spring Creek is a place where the art of fly fishing is refined, and where anglers can test their skills in one of the most scenic settings Montana has to offer. A rod fee is required to fish Armstrong’s and is added to the guide rate, providing exclusive access to this remarkable fishery.
Photo credit: Josh Roper