Paradise Valley Spring Creeks Fishing Report 12/2/25

December 2, 2025

Paradise Valley Spring Creek Fishing Report 

Mincey with a DePuy's rainbow.  Photo: R15

The Spring Creeks are one of the best winter fishing options we have around the Livingston / Bozeman area.  With warmer water coming out of the aquifers, the fish are often more active than those in the river, looking to feed on midges, scuds, sowbugs, or whatever else they can find.  

The beauty of fishing the spring creeks is that you can take a break and warm up anytime you like (verses floating the river and virtually having no shelter or way to warm up if the temperature drops or wind picks up).  Depuy's has some great warming huts equipped with wood and wood burning stoves.  But even hopping back in your car with the heater on your hands can be a welcomed reprieve from the elements.  Re-group, have a snack, warm your hands, possibly re-rig, and get back out there for another round of fun!

Give us a call for a wind report or for the latest intel.  1-406-222-7130.

Recommended flies

Dry flies: 

Harrop Hanging Midge Black #18-24
Harrop Hanging Midge Grey #18-24
Brook's Sprout Midge Emerger #18-22
George's Tailless Midge #20-22
Midge Cluster #16-22
Griffith's Gnat #16-20
CDC Cluster Midge #22-24

Nymphs:

Miracle Nymphs #16-22
Zebra midges (all colors) #18-22
Tungsten Zebra Midges (all colors) #18-22
Larva Lace Midge Larve (all colors) #18-22
Black Bead TZM (all colors) #18
Humbug Midge Rootbeer #18-20
Humbug Midge Olive #18-20
Graveyard Midge #18
Paulson's Pink Softy #14-18
Sow bug Soft Hackle Pink #16-18
Orang Ray Charles #16-18
Spring Creek Leech #10-12

Recommended Terminal Tackle: 

Rod:  A 3 or 4-weight fly rod are best for light presentation, tippet protection, and getting the best drift.

Tippet: TroutHunter 6X, 6.5X - (fluorocarbon or nylon), Scientific Angler's 6X, 6.5X - (fluorocarbon or nylon), Airflo 6X, 6.5X nylon, Rio Fluoroflex 6X, 6.5X.  7X or smaller is possible, but only with the right rod and operator, otherwise plan on loosing some flies when the fish go for the weeds...

Nymph Leader: 9-12' 6X knotless, 12' 6X George's Hand Tied Hot Butt Leader

Dry Fly Leader: 12' 6X knotless, 12' 6X George's Hand Tied Clear Butt Leader