Hebgen Lake Fishing

Abundant populations of healthy rainbow and brown trout and a reputation as the finest dry fly fishing lake in North America define Hebgen Lake. With close proximity to West Yellowstone and excellent access, fishing Hebgen Lake is not to be missed.

  • Located conveniently just 20 miles from West Yellowstone.
  • Excellent hatches from early spring through mid September make this one of the finest dry fly lakes in America.
  • Shore Fishing is best during the Trico hatch during late spring and early summer.
  • During the late summer Caddis fly hatches, standard dry patters such as the Parachute Adams work well.

Overview

Hebgen Lake combines spectacular scenery amid Yellowstone country with abundant fishing opportunities.  The lake, which originated from the formation of a man-made damn is 16 miles long and between 2 - 4 miles wide. Located approximately 20 miles west of West Yellowstone on a high plateau, it can be windy. While float tube opportunities exist in some of the smaller bays, motorboat, canoe, pontoon boat, or inflatable kayak would make a better craft choice for fishing the moving schools of trout and can be rented at local outfitters.

Fishing Seasons

The chrominid hatch happens in early spring through June. A second hatch of Trico comes on in early July and is followed by the Callibaetis mayflies which continues through August and sometimes into September. An experienced guide or fly shop can give you more hatch details.

Most Popular Species of Fish

The lake boasts strong numbers of good size rainbow and brown trout. Trout average 14 - 18 inches depending on age and species. With its large size, there are definitely sweet spots on the lake. Asking locals, or hiring a guide will help ensure finding the schools of trout rather than the schools of chub.

Getting There

Scenic beauty and the convenient location of Hebgen Lake make this a popular fishing destination, located to the west of the junction of HWY 287 and US HWY 191 just 20 minutes outside West Yellowstone.  Access is excellent as HWY 287 parallels Hebgen Lake along much of its northern side. 

View the local providers:

Wild Trout Outfitters - Hebgen Lake trips - Your choice - walk/wade trips, drift boat float trips, float tube trips to Hebgen & Quake Lakes. Plus, we hit all major rivers (Gallatin & Madison) with experience & results.
Your choice - walk/wade trips, drift boat float trips, float tube trips to Hebgen & Quake Lakes. Plus, we hit all major rivers (Gallatin & Madison) with experience & results.
Phone (800) 423-4742
Guided fly fishing trips to the Madison, Henry's Fork and Yellowstone Park, with expertise on local likes like Hebgen, Quake, Cliff & Wade. We know where they're biting.
Phone (800) 854-9559
Boat rentals, fuel & tackle are available at our marina. Close to Madison River, reasonable rates on cabins, camping, store and grill. Extra special off-season rates.
Phone (877) 302-7200

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