Montana is a special place. Here in Bozeman, our most iconic rivers are the Gallatin, Madison, and Jefferson rivers which form in Three Forks, MT about 30 mins West of Bozeman. Here is a brief overview of all the rivers.

The Gallatin River

The Gallatin River begins in Yellowstone National Park and ends when it helps form the Missouri River in Three Forks, MT.

The Gallatin River is home to some beautiful sceneries. It features world class fly fiishing, kayaking, and white water rafting. When it goes through the gallatin canyon, it is one of the most scenic sites you can see.

On the Gallatin River, fly fishing is among the most well-liked pastimes, and for good reason. Numerous fish species, such as cutthroat trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout, can be found in the river. The Gallatin River is renowned for its hatches, which take place all year long. Stoneflies, caddisflies, and blue-winged olives are a few of the most well-liked hatches.

Another well-liked pastime on the Gallatin River is whitewater rafting. The river has a range of Class I to IV rapids, making it suitable for both inexperienced and seasoned rafters. The Gallatin Canyon, which has a string of Class III and IV rapids, is one of the most well-liked sections of the river for rafting.

The Madison River

Beginning in Yellowstone National Park, the Madison River travels for about 140 miles west before joining the Jefferson River to form the Missouri River. James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, has the river bear his name.

Anglers from all over the world come to the Madison River to take advantage of the excellent fly fishing opportunities available there. Numerous fish species, such as mountain whitefish, brown trout, and rainbow trout, can be found in the river. The hatches that take place on the Madison River all through the year are also well-known. Caddisflies, stoneflies, and salmonflies are some of the most well-liked hatches.

One of the most popular sections of the Madison River for fly fishing is the "50-mile riffle," which is a stretch of river that runs from the Madison Dam to Ennis, Montana. This section of the river is known for its consistent hatches and large populations of trout.

The Madison River also provides fantastic opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting in addition to fly fishing. The river offers a variety of Class I to IV rapids, making it accessible to both inexperienced and seasoned paddlers. Additionally, the Madison River is renowned for its breathtaking landscape, which features soaring mountain peaks, luxuriant forests, and vast meadows.

The Jefferson River

Beginning in the southwest of Montana, the Jefferson River travels for about 83 miles before joining the Madison and Gallatin rivers to form the Missouri River. The third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, is honored by having the river bear his name.

The Jefferson River is known for its excellent recreational opportunities, including fly fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish. The Jefferson River is also known for its hatches, which occur throughout the year.