Brown Trout

Livingston, Montana, offers some of the best brown trout fishing in the West, largely due to its proximity to the legendary Yellowstone River. The Yellowstone here is a freestone river, meaning it runs clear and cold, providing ideal habitat for browns. Fall is prime time, as the browns become more aggressive pre-spawn, but spring runoff can also produce excellent fishing once the water clears. Focus on the deeper runs and undercut banks where these fish like to hold. For access, consider using the numerous fishing access sites along Highway 89 south of town. Be aware of fluctuating flows, especially during irrigation season, and always check river conditions before heading out. A local tip: Browns here are smart, so long, accurate casts with natural-looking presentations are key. Don't be afraid to fish streamers to entice the larger browns.