Good morning, anglers! Here’s your Yellowstone River fishing report for Monday, April 14, 2025. Early spring fishing conditions are shaping up well in this iconic waterway, with activity heating up across various sections of the river.

Right now, water flows are below average, which creates great visibility and makes targeting trout a bit easier. Expect daytime highs around the 50s, with calm weather improving your chances on the water. Sunrise today was at 6:38 AM, and sunset will be at 8:00 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to cast your line.

**Fish Activity and Patterns**
The trout are transitioning out of their winter mode but are still concentrated in slower, deeper runs and pools. Rainbow trout are actively spawning, and spring baetis and midge hatches are becoming increasingly reliable. Mid-morning to mid-afternoon is proving to be the prime window for trout activity as water temperatures inch upward. Recent catches include rainbow trout, brown trout, and native cutthroat trout, alongside mountain whitefish.

**Best Baits and Lures**
- *Nymphs*: Stonefly patterns like Pat’s Rubberlegs (sizes 8-12), beadhead pheasant tails (sizes 16-20), and zebra midges (sizes 16-22) are performing well. Target slower currents near riffles and shelfs for concentrated bites.
- *Streamers*: Smaller patterns such as Lil’ Kim and Frozen Fox are recommended. For more action, try articulated streamers fished deep and slow in cooler water.
- *Dry Flies*: Keep a few Blue Wing Olive (BWO) dries or Griffith’s Gnats handy, especially for afternoon surface activity.

**Hot Spots**
For the best results, head to these areas:
1. *Paradise Valley*: The stretch from Emigrant to Pine Creek offers stunning scenery and excellent fishing for rainbows, browns, and cutthroats. Notable access points include the Carbella and Emigrant fishing sites.
2. *Yankee Jim Canyon*: This section is a dry fly angler’s paradise, with pocket water and rapids producing solid catches. Large dry flies are effective here.
3. *Gardiner to Livingston*: A prime area for nymphing with plenty of holding water near riffles and depth transitions.

**Tips for Success**
Nymphing with double-rig setups has been the most consistent technique lately. Use weighted anchor flies to slow your drift in feeding lanes. On warmer, overcast days, keep an eye out for emerging BWOs for potential dry fly opportunities. Don’t forget to work the water patiently, as trout are still favoring slower sections.

Before heading out, ensure you have the appropriate Montana fishing license, and if fishing in Yellowstone National Park, a separate park permit will be required. Remember to practice catch-and-release for native species and respect spawning redds to protect future generations of fish.

Tight lines and happy fishing!