Hatch Charts
This is only a rough breakdown of the most common hatches in the vicinity of Bozeman, MT. All of these hatches are dependent upon certain weather and water conditions and thus the time of each can, and usually is, variable.
STONEFLIES
Salmon Fly
Madison River – Hebgen Dam to Ennis— June 25 to July 15
Yellowstone River — July
Gallatin River — June 15 to July 15
Golden Stone
Madison River — July
Yellowstone River — June 20 to July 20
Gallatin River — July
Yellow Sally
Madison River — July 15 to August 15
Yellowstone River — June 20 to July 20
Gallatin River — July 15 to August 15
MAYFLIES
Pale Morning Dun
Madison River — July 1 to August 15
Yellowstone River — July 5 to September 10
Small Western Green Drake
Madison River — July 15 to August 10
Yellowstone River — July 20 to August 10
Gray Drake
Yellowstone River — July 15 to September 15
Callibaetis
Hebgen Lake — July 15 to September 15
Ennis Lake- July 15 to September 15
Trico
Hebgen Lake — July 10 to September 15
Madison River — August to September 30
Blue Wing Olive
Madison River — September 1 to October 15
Yellowstone River — August 1 to October 30
CADDIS
Madison River — June 25 to August 20
Gallatin River — July 1 to August 20
Yellowstone River — July 15 to August 30
TERRESTRIALS
Hoppers, ants, beetles, crickets
What equipment will I need?
At Peaks to Prairies your day of guided fishing includes almost everything you will need for a great day on the water. The price of the trip includes the use of quality Loop fly fishing rods and reels if you don’t have your own or would prefer not to travel with them. We also provide leaders, tippet and all flies to insure you have everything you need for a successful day on the water. If you would prefer to use your own fly fishing gear we would suggest a 9-foot fly fishing rod in either a 5 or 6 weight. Not included in the price of your trip are your Montana fishing license or waders and boots. There a number of fly shops in Bozeman who would be more than happy to rent you waders and we would be happy to help with those arrangements if needed.
Must haves: • Rain Jacket • Sunscreen • Polarized Sunglasses • Long Billed Hat
Which river will we fish?
Bozeman, Montana, is ideally situated for easy and fairly quick access to over 300 miles of beautiful, wild trout waters. Some of the rivers we guide out of Bozeman include some of the most famous Montana rivers; such as the Madison, Yellowstone, Gallatin and Missouri rivers. We also offer fly fishing trips to numerous smaller streams that can also provide exciting opportunities with oftentimes less fishing pressure than can be found on the larger, more famous rivers.
How should I dress for my day on the river?
Montana’s weather can be variable and we want you to be prepared. Summertime thunderstorms do occur and temperature swings can be significant. Layering is your best defense against the weather. During the summertime we suggest lightweight/quick-drying pants and either wading boots or sandals. You may need a light jacket and long sleeves in the morning and then shed layers as the day warms up. In the spring and fall seasons you may need a few more layers such as fleece pants, heavier jacket, warm hat and gloves. We always have room for your gear so feel free to bring whatever you need. I highly recommend visiting the weather link listed on the bottom of our main page to get an idea of what the weather is forecast to be during your visit. Please keep in mind however that this will only you give you an idea of what it is supposed to do, don’t count on it following the forecast to the letter!
Who will be my fly fishing guide?
Peaks to Prairies has a number of experienced guides to make your day on the river a memorable one. All our guides are true professionals who are committed to providing exemplary service. We will match you up with one of the guides that will best suit your wants and needs.
What time of year should I fish?
Our season is open year round but the majority of our trips are from April through October. Our peak season is July through September but it is also the busiest. If you are looking for a little more solitude for your day on the water, spring and fall can be very productive and often the crowds of summer are a non-issue.
Is lunch provided?
All of our full day trips include a quality deli styled lunch from one of our local caterers. We also provide an assortment of non-alcoholic drinks. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know when booking so we can accommodate your needs.
Gratuities for guides?
Our fly fishing guides work hard to make sure you get the most out of every fishing day. Even though guide tips are never expected they are always appreciated. 15%-20% of the price of the guide trip is common but anything extra that shows your appreciation is greatly valued.
How much advance notice do I need to book my trip?
Prime dates for the best guides can be booked many months if not a year in advance. Many times we can accommodate you within a few weeks of your chosen dates but the more advance notice we receive the better. Also, many of our fly fishing destination trips, such as the Missouri or Bighorn Rivers, require more advance notice to reserve the limited lodging options available at these locations.
What is our cancellation policy?
RESERVATION & CANCELLATION POLICY Booking: To guarantee your reservation, a 50% deposit per day, per guide booked is required. Trip deposits are payable by personal check or credit card and are due within 60 days of your first day of guided fishing. Without receiving your payment, your dates are NOT guaranteed any further and will be released. Last minute trips that are booked within 48 hours of a guided trip’s departure date will be subject to full payment for the guide fees at the time of making the reservation. Cancellation Policy: Peaks to Prairies is not responsible for inclement weather, airline schedules, illness, water conditions, or car rentals. If you have to cancel your trip, your deposit may be refunded if you provide us with written notice at least 30 days or more prior to your trip. Cancellation of a trip with or without a written notification less than 30 days before scheduled date(s), and the deposit is nonrefundable. Cancellations received within 24 hours of scheduled departure or “No-Shows” will result in full payment of the trip. No exceptions. If you are concerned about the possibility of something happening prior to your trip we reccomend the purchase of trip insurance.