Fishing Season: Year Round (Prime July 4 - October 15)

Yellowstone River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

46

Yellow Dog Flyfishing's Tip of the Week

Nymphing will be the best way to catch fish. Maybe a streamer. Check the wind conditions prior to heading out.

Directions open in app

Map of Yellowstone River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Fins & Feathers
Firehole Ranch
Madison Valley Ranch
The Tackle Shop Outfitters
Long Outfitting
Hubbard's Yellowstone Lodge

5-Day Outlook as of 4/8/26

The river is a bit dirty after the recent increase in flows. Pretty darn nice conditions expected all week. Fishing could be good as long as the river keeps some clarity.

Techniques & Tips as of 4/8/26

Nymphing with stonefly nymphs, worms, or perdigons will be the best bet. Fish your nymphs about 5 feet under your indicator with a split shot. Fish are mostly in the slow moving (walking speed) water. Streamers will be another good option.

Local Species Available Year Round (Prime July 4 - October 15)

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    Mountain Whitefish

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    Rainbow

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    Brown and Cutthroat Trout

Yellow Dog Flyfishing's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Bead Head Brassie™ Copper 16
Sparkle Dun Olive 16
Vernille San Juan Worm Red 8-10
Fly Formerly Known As Prince Peacock 12-16
Peanut Envy Black 4
Skiddish Smolt Silver 4
TH 20 Incher Peacock 10
Moto's Minnow Natural 6
Pat's Rubberleg Black, Brown, Tan 6-10
Zebra Midge Red 18

Bead Head Brassie™

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Item #0957

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Yellow Dog Flyfishing's Recommended Gear

Description: About Yellowstone River

The Yellowstone is the longest undamned river in the US. It's also one of the country's premier trout streams. The 'Stone has good populations of Brown, Rainbow, and Cutthroat trout. It's water types very from rugged canyon's to scenic pastoral floats. The Yellowstone has something to offer any trout angler.

Nearest Airport:

Gallatin Field Airport (BZN), Bozeman, Montana

Hatches:

Midges, BWO's

Best Time to Fish:

Afternoon

Best Stretch:

Above Livingston

Best Access:

Above Emigrant Fishing Access.