Social distancing streamside

As the streamside foliage changes color, so do the fish. Buttery brown trout and hefty rainbows fill the minds of anglers who have been waiting for this spectacular season all summer long. Fall is the prime time for fishing in the Rocky Mountains, as trout are moving upstream to spawn and bulk up for the tough winter that lies ahead. For us lucky MSU students, it’s a can’t-miss opportunity to hit the river and maybe catch the trout of a lifetime.

One fun aspect of fall fishing is the variety of flies you can throw. You can catch the October caddis hatch in the evenings or you can strip huge, tandem streamers until your arm gets sore. If those styles of fishing aren’t your thing, you can still nymph and count on catching a good amount of fish. But especially for streamer fishing, there is no better time than now to throw that “meaty” fly you’ve had in your fly box all summer. Some streamers that local folks have plenty of success with include the “Sculpzilla,” “Dolly Llama” and “Silk Kitty.” These flies are big and hefty and are the ticket to hooking one of the big browns Bozeman rivers are notorious for .

Some locations that Bobcats should consider fishing include the Lower Madison, Gallatin and Yellowstone rivers. These stretches of water are heavily fished by tourists and locals alike in the summertime, but fall brings a little break from the crowds. You’re much more likely to run into only experienced, serious fishermen this time of year, as the vacation season is over, and folks are busy hunting. The plethora of experienced fishermen should by no means deter new anglers from hitting the water, though, as there is plenty of bank access to go around.

So while your mind may begin to focus on the upcoming ski season at Bridger Bowl, remember that this is the best time to hit the river and chase big fish. For anglers and outdoor lovers alike, it's a great excuse to get off campus and into the beautiful countryside that we all love and enjoy. Make sure to dress appropriately and be prepared for the chance of experiencing all four Montana seasons in one day. With that being said, good luck to all and tight lines.