Big Creek

Big Creek flows from the Spanish Peaks Wilderness into the Gallatin River near Big Sky, offering good fishing for rainbow and brown trout in a scenic mountain setting. The creek is easily accessed from the Big Sky area and provides a pleasant alternative to the busier Gallatin River. Upper reaches in the wilderness hold smaller but eager trout in classic mountain stream habitat. The lower creek flows through a mix of public and private land before joining the Gallatin. Fish average 8-12 inches with occasional larger browns in deeper pools and undercut banks. The creek fishes best from late spring through fall, with attractor dry flies and small nymphs effective throughout the season. Big Creek offers a quiet small-stream experience for Big Sky visitors seeking a break from the crowds on the main river and serves as a good introduction to mountain stream fishing for beginners.