Stillwater River Fishing
One of Montana's most beautiful and under-rated resources, the Stillwater River begins north of Yellowstone National Park in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Known for having many of Montana's highest peaks, this mountainous region is home to hundreds of glacial-fed lakes and streams, plus both wild and planted strains of trout.
Stillwater River
© Vertical Media
Though it is called the Stillwater, the river can become a raging torrent during peak runoff months of June and July, making it a favorite for whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. In the lower reaches of the river, starting about 4 miles downstream of Nye, excellent fishing can be experienced on both lures and flies. Check local shops in Columbus, Absarokee, Nye and Red Lodge for local conditions.
On average, rainbows and browns range from 10-16", though fish up to 20" are routinely caught. This is definitely a dry fly river, with the favorite combination being the classic "hopper/dropper" style of two-fly rigs. Popular combos include Parachute Adams trailing a bead Prince Nymph, a Royal Wulff trailing a flashback Pheasant tail nymph, and as summer progresses, the Dave's hopper trailing a caddis pupa emerger. In the fall, as browns migrate up the river out of the larger Yellowstone River, look for shallow gravel bars and try Marabou Muddlers, and egg-sucking leech Black Wooly Bugger or Single Bunny streamer with a red throat.
There are numerous public access points offered by Montana's Fish, Wildlife and Parks. For a map of these access points, click here http://fwp.mt.gov/fishing/guide/q_Stillwater_River__1092800456391.aspx
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