Planning a winter fly fishing trip to Southwest Montana? This Bozeman-area fishing report highlights current conditions, including mid-40s to low-50s temperatures, calmer winds, and strong midge hatches creating prime afternoon opportunities. Anglers are finding the best action on the Lower Madison River, Gallatin River near Big Sky, the Paradise Valley Spring Creeks, and even the Missouri River for those willing to travel. While winter fishing requires patience, precise timing, and a focus on slow holding water, dedicated anglers can still enjoy productive trout fishing without battling the harshest cold of the season.
Here is the latest southwest Montana fishing report from Montana Angler as of February 13, 2026:
Summary of current conditions
Temps this weekend are forecast to be in the mid-40s or low 50-s throughout much of the Bozeman area. Wind forecasts also look calm compared to what they have been on these warm, winter days that have been so common. Reports of strong midge hatches are circulating as well. The Upper Madison is a good bet during these warm spells, but most local anglers have been focusing on the Lower Madison. If you go, do not expect great fishing–but at least you can go fishing without freezing your extremities! Best bets right now are going to be the Lower Madison, the Gallatin near Big Sky, and the Paradise Valley Spring Creeks. If you want to make the drive, the Missouri River is an option as well.Comfort and safety are key, as well as timing. Winter-time water levels are always on the low side, and there is a lot of definition to the water. The key to winter fishing is finding slower holding water and fishing in the afternoon when water temperatures are at their peak.
Important winter hatches
Midge hatches can be strong in some locations in the late morning and early afternoon when warmer, mild weather settles in. Otherwise, the fishing is a nymphing game.Early winter fly box
Fly selection is simple in the colder months. If there is a midge hatch, choose your favorite midge dry or cluster pattern. Palomino midges and Griffith’s gnats are good enough. For sub surface, try a rubber legs, egg or worm pattern on top and a smaller midge larva or baetis nymph on bottom.Where to find trout in early winter
Water temps are cooler and trout have moved out of the heavy water and riffles in favor of softer holding water. Trout will be very heavily concentrated in large, slow runs and nearly absent everywhere else. It pays to skip a lot of water and only focus on these slower runs. Fish slow and deep in the peak afternoon hours.
Photo via Montana Angler
