Come One, Come All

Stream access from a landowner’s perspective.

The Gallatin River is a haven for Bozeman anglers. It’s close to town, has large numbers of trout, and can provide ample solitude, especially for those willing to hike up or down the riverbed for a few miles, thanks to Montana’s fabled stream-access law.

My husband Gordon, who passed last year, and I used to do exactly that some afternoons, starting from our riverfront property. Owning land on the Gallatin was something we worked toward our whole lives, and when we could finally afford a property, we bought it full-well knowing the laws regarding stream access.

Landowners, as well as river recreationists, have a responsibility to know and respect the stream-access law. Both parties should understand that access is a special right.

Over the years, we had many diverse encounters with folks fishing the river adjacent to our land. Most were resoundingly positive. Some were surprising. One day, we ran into a few fishermen walking downstream on our land. As we approached them, we realized one was having medical problems with his heart. We immediately scooped him up with our Jeep and took him to his lodging just downstream. We stayed in touch with him for a couple years.

Landowners, as well as river recreationists, have a responsibility to know and respect the stream-access law. Both parties should understand that access is a special right. Gordon and I wholeheartedly supported it. He used to say that a man’s character can be measured by how he acts when he’s alone. Likewise, our characters can be measured by how we act on the river. Being thoughtful and respecting the rights of other river-users and the river itself will lead to a positive, fulfilling experience for everyone.

Pack out what you pack in. Leave the river cleaner than you found it.

I am so thankful for the beautiful Gallatin, and for the ability to live near it and to steward it. Every time I fish, I bring a bag with me to pick up any trash that’s been swept downstream. Styrofoam, plastics, shoes, paddles, and parts of boats—it all can get taken by the river and spit out. Every little bit of trash taken off the river counts, and we all need to take good care of it, regardless of whose land we are near or how we accessed the river. Pack out what you pack in. Leave the river cleaner than you found it.

It’s my hope that everyone in Montana can enjoy the serenity of a day spent fishing, duck hunting, or just boating on the state’s many waterways—all while abiding by the law. Never forget that we’re all in this together—you, me, and the river. Next time I see you using the rights afforded by the state’s access laws, I look forward to a wave and a nod, and all is good.