Fishing Hebgen Lake, MT

AKA: Hebgen Reservoir

Boat and bank fishing

Last updated on February 7, 2026.

Popular Fish Species
Hebgen Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Fishing Boat Rentals
Marinas
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Hebgen Lake, MT

Popular Fish Species

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Excellent fisheries management by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Dept has helped to maintain a good population of trophy rainbow trout at Hebgen Lake. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. This lake is known for its healthy population of rainbow trout, which can grow to impressive sizes. Anglers can target rainbow trout using various methods such as fly fishing, spin fishing, or bait fishing. The clear waters of Hebgen Lake provide excellent visibility, allowing anglers to spot trout and make precise casts. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

Brown Trout Fishing

Fishing for trophy brown trout in Hebgen Lake is fulfilling many a fly fisherman's dreams. These elusive fish offer a rewarding challenge for anglers, and the lake is renowned for producing trophy-sized brown trout. Anglers often use fly fishing techniques with streamer patterns or nymphs to entice these wary fish. The beauty and size of the brown trout in Hebgen Lake attract anglers from near and far. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed. When the lake freezes over, enjoy ice fishing for trout.

Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout and brook trout at Hebgen Lake in Montana.

Less than a 15-mile ride from West Yellowstone, MT is Hebgen Lake, a trout anglers' paradise. This 11,000-acre lake is an impoundment of the Madison River with over 65 miles of shoreline. Visitors tend to focus more on fishing here, and less on boating and other water sports.

Fly fishing for big browns and rainbows is the primary draw, with the potential to catch a dream fish on every cast. Plenty of campgrounds and RV parks surround the lake as do boat launch ramps and marinas. Ice fishing in winter is available once there is safe ice.

Primary fish species residing in Hebgen Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Hebgen Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Click here for fishing boat rentals.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Click here for boat launch ramps.

Marinas

Click here for marinas.

Fishing License

Click here for a Montana Fishing License.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Yellowstone Holiday RV Campground - 406 646-4242

Rainbow Point Campground - 406 646-1012