How to get to Dome Mountain Ranch - Trip Planning
Dome Mountain Ranch is 31 miles south of Livingston, Montana immediately off Highway 89 South and 20 miles north of Yellowstone National Park.We are very easy to find!
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Air Travel to Bozeman,
Montana
Air travel into Bozeman (Gallatin Field) is recommended. Dome Mountain Ranch is about 35 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. Bozeman is served by Northwest Airlines, United Airlines, Horizon Air, and Delta Airlines. This link will give you information regarding daily arrivals and departures into Gallatin Field. Rental cars are available at the airport.
From the Bozeman Airport - Drive east on Interstate 90 for 38 miles, taking exit 333 at Livingston. Follow Highway 89 South for 31 miles.Watch for the sign on the right immediately after crossing the Yellowstone River bridge.
Traveling east/west on Interstate 90 - Take Exit 333 at Livingston. Follow Highway 89 South for 31 miles. Watch for the sign on the right immediately after crossing the Yellowstone River bridge.
Traveling from the south (including Yellowstone Park) - Follow Route 91 north to West Yellowstone, Montana. Enter Yellowstone National Park through West Entrance. Turn left in Park at Madison Junction to Mammoth Hot Springs. Exit park at north gate in Gardiner, Montana. Follow route 89 for 21 miles, watch for the signs, main lodge on left.
Recommended
Montana Fishing Gear List
The location of Dome Mountain Lodge affords the fly fisher a variety of waters from the main Yellowstone River, spring creeks, high mountain lakes, and the multiple streams of Yellowstone Park and surrounding Absoroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
What Size Rod?
Due to the size of the Yellowstone River we suggest at least a 5 wt. or heavier fly rod for good all around fly fishing. Floating line will also give the fly fisher the versatility to fish dry flies as well as sub surface patterns from nymphs to streamers. Most often, high mountain breezes will also make casting more technical which will require a rod with a stiff back bone to punch big western patterns to the right spots. This western wind is also appreciated by the trout that will wait for natural insects to be blown into water. This same 5 wt. rod will also be idea for the smaller streams and lakes in the surrounding areas.
Another consideration for fishing the Yellowstone is a rod in the 7-8 wt class range which allows a fly fisher more opportunity to effectively fish larger patterns which can work well to bring up exceptionally large Browns and Rainbows from the banks. These heavier and longer fly rods can serve as a great back up.
On the other hand, miles of gin clear freestone streams beginning high in the mountains offer secluded backcountry fishing opportunities. Many of these smaller tributaries have a canopy of foliage, making standing casting impossible. Some fly fishers enjoy lighter weight rods in the 1-3 class range in order to work tight spots and fish for aggressive native trout with spectacular colorations.
Fly Patterns?
Our well stocked fly shop is specifically set up with proven fly patterns that have worked well over the years on our surrounding waters. Regardless of the time of year you plan to visit, some standard patterns should always be in your fly box.
- Elk Hair Caddis
- Trudes
- Adams
- Foam Attractors of Choice
- Bead Head Nymphs
- Wooly Buggers
- Caddis Emergers
- Sculpin Streamers
The aquatic life on all the local waters is varied to the point that no fly fisher could ever hope to have all the “right” patterns, so beginning with searching patterns is a good technique. Most guides will employ the standard “hopper and dropper” technique which consists of a larger floating pattern with a lighter tippet tied directly to the shank of the hook with a smaller “dropper” on the bottom. Often presentation and reading the water is much more important than fly selection. For a more detailed list, please see our suggested patterns and hatch chart. In addition, don’t be afraid to throw your own creation, it might surprise you.
Other Gear:
Due to the wide variety of fishing options your gear should be carefully selected. A pair of comfortable light weight waders and shoes with felt or cleated soles will help keep your footing. On warmer days you may find it is more comfortable to fish with wading sandals and shorts. One mistake many fishers make is wading too far out into the water. Many fish rest right along the banks of the the bigger rivers, and often the smaller streams can be fished more effectively from the banks using a low profile and short, accurate casts.
Miscellaneous:
- Polarized Sun Glasses
- Tippet-from 2x-5x
- Extra Leader or two
- Strike Indicators
- Fly Floatant
- Weight
- Surgical Hemostats
- Nippers
We are more than happy to “pre-arrange” a beginners package for you with either quality rod rentals or purchase.
Cancellation Policy:
Dome Mountain Ranch offers a 30 day cancellation policy. Any cancellations prior to this time will offer a full refund. Fully Guided Float trips cancelled after 30 days prior to trip dates will require ½ cost of the deposit to be retained by Dome Mountain Ranch.
More information and frequently asked questions can be found on the Dome Mountain FAQ page.
