Freestonefly fishing glossary
A river or stream fed primarily by surface runoff and precipitation rather than springs.
Freestone streams are shaped by rainfall, snowmelt, and gravity. They tend to have more variable flows, temperatures, and water clarity compared to spring creeks or tailwaters.
Characteristics
- Rocky, boulder-strewn streambeds
- Higher gradient with riffles, runs, and pocket water
- More variable insect populations
- Flow and temperature fluctuate with weather
Famous freestone rivers include the Madison, Gallatin, and Gunnison.