Current Conditions
The Yellowstone has cooled off significantly with the recent rains and early cold fronts over the past few weeks. We are creeping back into the 25th percentile for flows instead of flirting with record lows. Fishing has picked up with cooler waters as well. The early mornings are producing with both streamers or choosing to skate some nocturnal stone patterns. Afternoon hopper fishing continues to remain very good. Trout are starting to move within the river so spend some locating them. As water temps cool fish will start dropping into progressively slower runs.
The Month Ahead:
Aquatic hatches are winding down with the exception of of a few early fall drakes and late tricos. These are basically golden stones but with stubby wings. Terrestrials are the main game for surface fishing with ants and hoppers present. Fish are opportunistic subsurface so attractor nymphs are also a great option.
Long Term Fishing Forecast:
The Yellowstone should be a great option in the fall. As temperatures drop trout will move back into the slower slicks, eddies and glides and the small mayfly fishing will improve over baetis and the random drakes. October fishing is always solid on the stone to aggressive browns.
