Big Hole River Montana Fly Fishing Map | Public Access Guide

Big Hole River Pocket Guide Map

From Skinner Meadows to Twin Bridges—wild, scenic, and legendary waters await.

The Big Hole River in southwest Montana is one of the most iconic and ecologically diverse trout streams in the American West. It flows roughly 150 miles from Skinner Meadows near the Continental Divide to its confluence with the Jefferson River near Twin Bridges.

Predominant Fish Species in the Big Hole River, Montana

1. Brown Trout (Salmo trutta)

• Most common species throughout much of the river.

• Often grow large—especially in the lower stretches.

• Very active in the fall during the brown trout spawn.

2. Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

• Found throughout the middle and lower river.

• Numbers can fluctuate depending on runoff and water conditions.

• Offer exciting action, especially during spring and early summer.

3. Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arcticus)

• A rare, native, and non-migratory population survives in the upper Big Hole.

• This is one of the only rivers in the lower 48 states with native fluvial Arctic grayling.

• Protected species—catch and release only.

4. Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis)

• Common in the upper stretches and tributaries.

• Typically smaller than browns or rainbows, but aggressive feeders.

• Compete with grayling in some habitats.

5. Mountain Whitefish (Prosopium williamsoni)

• Abundant throughout the river.

• Often underestimated sport fish—fun on a fly rod, especially in winter or shoulder seasons.

Notable River Sections

• Upper Big Hole (Skinner Meadows to Wisdom): Grayling stronghold, small brook trout, good early-season dry fly fishing.

• Middle Big Hole (Wise River to Divide): Great brown and rainbow trout water, diverse insect hatches.

• Lower Big Hole (Divide to Twin Bridges): Bigger water, larger brown trout, good for floating and streamer fishing.

Hatch Highlights

• Salmonflies (early to mid-June)

• Golden Stones

• PMDs

• Caddisflies (especially Mother's Day Caddis in May)

• Tricos (late summer)

• Baetis (spring and fall)

Map Features

Pocket-sized on land. Powerfully detailed on water. Built for serious anglers—and smart retailers.

Ready to fish smarter, not harder? Our Big Hole River Fishing Map is your essential guide from the headwaters in Skinner Meadows through Wise River, Melrose, Glen, and all the way to Twin Bridges. Designed by local experts, this map highlights public access points, boat launches, river miles, and iconic trout waters—so you can chase browns, rainbows, brookies, and native fluvial grayling with confidence.

Covering all public lands—federal, state, and county—it also includes exclusive parking areas and lesser-known easements you won’t find on any other map. Whether you're floating from Divide to Glen, wading the riffles near Melrose, or exploring back channels off the beaten path, this map gives you insider-level knowledge right in your pocket.

Why Anglers Love This Map:

• Zero in on hotspots with detailed access and float information

• Navigate confidently with clearly marked public land boundaries

• Discover off-the-radar entry points and parking areas

• Make every hour count with proven, on-the-river insights

Pocket-Sized and Built to Last

Folded to 3” x 6” and unfolding to 15” x 12”, this rugged, tear-resistant map fits easily in any vest, pack, or glovebox—ready for wind, rain, and river miles.

Track your location, zoom in, and pair your print map with GPS-enabled functionality via a QR Code (sold separately). Ideal for planning or navigating on the fly.

Retailers: Looking for a Map That Practically Sells Itself?
This is a must-have for fly shops, outfitters, and outdoor retailers across southwest Montana. Durable, compact, and locally designed—it’s a grab-and-go product anglers trust.

Don’t just fish the Big Hole—know it, respect it, and make every cast count.