Fly Fishing Gros Ventre River - Kelly to Moose

Fly fishing Gros Ventre River Kelly to Moose is one of the most renowned and productive fly fishing destinations in Wyoming, and for good reason. Situated in Jackson Hole within the Snake River Basin, this freestone stretch offers miles of fishable water but punches well above its weight. With diverse flows and a nutrient-rich aquatic ecosystem, it supports healthy populations of Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Brown Trout.

Fly fishing Gros Ventre River Kelly to Moose's diverse channel flows through diverse terrain with expansive views of the surrounding Jackson Hole landscape. Its character is dynamic—pocket water, boulder gardens, and deep pools—but don't be fooled: the fish here are large, smart, and selective. Spring (April–June) brings excellent dry fly fishing as runoff stabilizes and hatches begin in earnest. Summer (July–September) offers consistent action with terrestrial patterns and evening caddis hatches, while fall (October–November) brings aggressive streamer and soft hackle opportunities as fish prepare for winter.

Fly fishing the Gros Ventre River – Kelly to Moose Section offers one of the most scenic and approachable wild trout experiences in the Jackson Hole region. Flowing west from the rugged Gros Ventre Range into the valley floor, this stretch meanders through cottonwood groves, sage flats, and open meadows with panoramic views of the Tetons. The section between Kelly and Moose combines easy access with classic freestone character, making it a local favorite for anglers seeking solitude and dry-fly action just minutes from Grand Teton National Park.

The river here is a true freestone: clear, cold, and highly dynamic with shifting channels and gravel bars. Its moderate gradient produces a variety of water types — riffles, deep bends, undercut banks, and midstream islands. The character transitions from a tighter, faster stream near Kelly to a broader, slower river near Moose where it joins the Snake. Seasonal flows fluctuate with snowmelt, but by midsummer the river settles into excellent wade-fishing conditions ideal for dry flies and light nymphing.

This reach holds a strong population of wild Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout — native to the system and uniquely patterned. Most fish run 10–16 inches, with occasional larger trout approaching 18–20 inches, particularly later in the season. These cutthroats are aggressive surface feeders, making the river a top dry-fly fishery throughout summer and early fall. Rainbows and whitefish are present in smaller numbers, but the cutthroat defines the Gros Ventre experience.

Hatches are consistent and diverse. Spring brings blue-winged olives and midges, followed by caddis and yellow sallies in early summer. The hallmark of this section is its late-summer terrestrial fishing: hoppers, beetles, and ants drive steady action from July through September. On overcast days, mayflies reemerge in the fall, providing excellent opportunities for technical dry-fly presentations. Because the Gros Ventre is a freestone stream, timing around runoff (usually late May through mid-June) is crucial.

Flows between 150 and 600 CFS make for safe, productive wading. At higher levels, crossings become difficult and clarity may drop, but bankside seams remain fishable. Access is superb — the Gros Ventre Road and various public pull-outs near Kelly provide multiple entry points, and anglers can explore further downstream toward Moose via National Park access corridors. The combination of proximity, scenery, and consistent surface action makes this stretch ideal for day trips and photography.

Fly fishing the Gros Ventre River between Kelly and Moose is a must for anglers visiting Jackson Hole. With wild native cutthroat trout, stunning views of the Tetons, and easy public access, it delivers everything that defines the Wyoming freestone experience — wild water, wild fish, and wilderness views all in one place.