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

Yellowstone River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

42

Yellow Dog Flyfishing's Tip of the Week

Nymphing will be the best way to catch fish. Maybe a streamer. Maybe fish rising to BWO's. Be ready for anything. 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 12/3/25

Cold through the rest of the week but warmer temperatures are expected next week. Fishing can be tough in the winter on the stone but with the warmer temps it could be good next week. If the wind is low.

Techniques & Tips as of 12/3/25

Nymphing with small stonefly nymphs or perdigon will be the best bet. 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

Best Time to Fish:

Afternoon

Best Stretch:

Above Livingston

Best Access:

Above Emigrant Fishing Access.