Current Conditions:
The Yellowstone River is definitely low, and water temps are warming by early afternoon. The early bird is definitely going to get the worm on the Yellowstone River at the moment. Cooler weather is forecasted for next week, but still the best fishing is going to be in the early mornings. The hopper bite is just starting and should improve in the coming weeks. The best fishing is still early in the morning. Hot days ahead will push trout into the fast water so avoid the long frog water slicks right now and look for the riffles. There are still some nocturnal stones down low and dry fly fishing is good at dawn down there with rubber legs underneath producing some fish.
The Yellowstone River from HWY 89 Bridge to HWY 212/310 Bridge is under Hoot Owl Restrictions. That means the river is closed to fishing from 2 PM to Midnight. You can always check with FWP’s Restrictions and Closures page for the most up-to-date angling restrictions.
The Month Ahead:
The current conditions will hold out for the next few weeks, but as we get deeper into August, water temps can actually drop some with longer and cooler nights. Trout will transition more to terrestrials on the surface, and the standard nymphing patterns will hold out underneath. The most important factor is time of day and water temps. If hot days persist, get up early and fish the fast water.
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.
Visit Our Shop for These Top Yellowstone River Flies Right Now:
Elk Hair Caddis in size 10-14
Para Adams in size 12-22
BH Pheasant Tail in size 12-16
BH Prince in size 12-16
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