Stillwater River

Stillwater River

MT

River

About Stillwater River

The Stillwater River, a beautiful and wild Montana river, offers a dynamic fly fishing experience across its 70-mile length, transitioning from the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness to rolling prairie and canyons. Anglers will find healthy populations of rainbow, brook, cutthroat, and brown trout, with larger brown trout exceeding twenty inches found below the town of Nye. Key insect hatches include Caddis and Hoppers, providing excellent dry fly opportunities. While the upper wilderness sections present significant whitewater and are challenging to float, the river boasts abundant wading access, particularly in the lower canyon and prairie regions where trout numbers are high. Expect pocket water fishing in the upper reaches and opportunities for streamer and nymph fishing for larger brown trout downstream.

Access

Hike InWilderness

Seasons

SummerFall

Terrain

CanyonAlpine

Water

FreestoneMountain Stream

Fish Species

Rainbow Trout

Brown Trout

Cutthroat

Brook Trout

Fishing Styles

Dry FlyNymphing

undefined USGS Water Conditions

Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.

Data sourced from the USGS National Water Information System

Methods

Wade Friendly

Float Friendly

Land Ownership

Public Forest Service

Quick Actions

Location

Trip Planning

Best fishing typically occurs during summer and fall. Check water conditions before heading out.

See what insects are emerging on Stillwater River's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.