Good morning anglers, this is Artificial Lure with your Yellowstone River fishing report for Saturday, May 3, 2025.

We woke up to a cool spring morning along the Yellowstone River, with temps starting in the mid-40s and expected to climb into the high 60s by afternoon. Skies are mostly clear early, but afternoon clouds and a light wind out of the west are forecast. Sunrise was at 6:05 AM and sunset will be at 8:32 PM, giving plenty of daylight for a full day on the water. Remember, the Yellowstone River is not subject to tides, so water levels are primarily influenced by recent rains and snowmelt. Flows are running a bit high but clear enough for good fishing after a relatively dry week.

Trout activity is picking up with the warming trend. Anglers this week have done well on cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and mountain whitefish, with a few reports of healthy brown trout being landed as well. The best bite has been during mid-morning and late afternoon, as the water warms and insect hatches pick up. Caddis and blue-winged olive hatches are coming off strong, especially near riffles and gravel bars.

For gear, dry flies like elk hair caddis and parachute Adams in sizes 14 to 18 are working well on top, particularly in the slower side channels and back eddies. Nymphing with beadhead pheasant tails, hare’s ears, and stonefly patterns has produced consistent action, especially in deeper runs. If you are tossing lures, small spinners in gold or silver and natural-colored crankbaits have raised some aggressive fish.

Live bait is not permitted in most sections of the Yellowstone in and around the park, so stick to artificial flies and lures. For those fishing outside of the park boundaries, worms can get results for whitefish and the occasional large trout, but artificial baits are the way to go for quality fish and compliance.

Hot spots to check out today are the section around Livingston, where side channels provide varied habitat for both trout and whitefish, and the stretch near Emigrant, known for its access and healthy numbers of cutthroat and rainbow trout. Reports from anglers drifting downstream of Gardiner say the bite is solid on the inside bends and near rocky structure.

Overall, fishing is only going to get better as the spring progresses and water temps warm up. Remember to check local regulations and respect the delicate balance of native fish in the river. Tight lines, and enjoy your day on the fabled Yellowstone!

This is Artificial Lure, wishing you good luck and smooth drifts!

Yellowstone River Angler Update - May 2, 2025

Hey folks, Artificial Lure here with your Friday morning fishing report. The Yellowstone is shaping up nicely today! Flows have stabilized and might drop even more by the weekend, making for some prime conditions for local anglers.

We've got ourselves smack in the middle of the famous Mother's Day caddis hatch that typically hits late April to early May, and let me tell you, it's producing some fantastic dry fly action. If you haven't been out already, you're missing quite the show! Blue Wing Olives are also making a good showing, giving you multiple bug options.

Just a heads-up though - we're on borrowed time with the snowpack at 105% of median in the Upper Yellowstone Basin. Expect runoff to kick in soon, possibly within the next couple weeks if temperatures stay warm. The high country melt usually turns our river to mud by mid-May, so get out while the getting's good.

For today's hot spots, I'm hearing great reports from the stretch between Carter's Bridge and the Highway 89 crossing. The riffles and runs there are holding good numbers of fish, though rowing can be a bit tricky. If you're after bigger specimens, try the Lower Yellowstone between Highway 89 and Big Timber. The action might be slower, but some real lunkers have been pulled from these waters lately.

Lure selection is straightforward right now - match the hatch with caddis patterns in sizes 14-16, or go with Blue Wing Olive imitations. If you're targeting those big boys downstream, streamers are your best bet. For the adventurous types, hopper patterns and large attractor dries have been surprisingly effective despite the season.

Weather-wise, we're looking at typical spring conditions - quick-changing and unpredictable, so layer up and be prepared for anything. The recent rain added a touch of color to the water, but there are still plenty of bugs to keep the fish feeding.

For wade fishing, the public access points near Livingston offer decent entry, but watch your footing as the river has some muscle this time of year. The back eddies are particularly powerful after Carter's Bridge.

All considered, this is one of those windows of opportunity that Montana anglers live for - good flows, active hatches, and not too many folks on the water yet. I'd get out there while you can before Mother Nature flips the switch to runoff mode.

Tight lines until next time!

Artificial Lure here bringing you today’s fishing report for the Yellowstone River on April 30, 2025, straight from the banks near Livingston. We’re in a typical Montana spring swing—snowmelt has bumped the flows and the river’s running a bit off-color, especially after that recent rainstorm that hit the area. No tides to worry about on the Yellowstone, but flows are definitely day-to-day with the weather. Water clarity isn’t perfect right now, but that hasn’t stopped the bite for folks willing to work a little harder.

Weather’s been cooperating for the most part: we’re seeing cool mornings, daytime highs in the upper 50s and low 60s, and plenty of patchy cloud cover. Sunrise was about 6:30 am and you can fish until sunset around 8:10 pm today—plenty of daylight to get after it[5].

Even with the run-off murk, fish are still on the feed. Trout are holding in deeper, slower runs—look for those four- to six-foot buckets and softer seams. Rainbows are holding steady post-spawn, browns are lurking in the usual haunts, and you’ll find a few chunky cutthroats mixed in. Most catches this week have been in the 12-16 inch range, with the occasional 20-incher keeping things interesting. If you want high-density action and clear water, the spring creeks in Paradise Valley like DePuy’s and Armstrong’s are a top pick right now—lots of wild trout, but technical fishing[3].

As for what’s working, nymphing remains your most consistent play. Go with stonefly nymphs, BWO (Blue Wing Olive) nymphs, midges, and red worms. With the water a bit dirty, don’t overlook flashy or bigger patterns. Streamers have also picked up steam—especially articulated black flies like an Ebony or Peanut Envy. If things clear up and you see surface action, get ready for BWO and caddis hatches. Keep a few BWO dries and caddis patterns handy—those quick splashy rises are your clue[4].

If you’re looking for hot spots, try the stretches just upstream of Livingston for trout holding in classic buckets, or the Paradise Valley reaches where the river slows and deepens around the bends. The mouths of spring creeks entering the river are also prime.

That’s your Yellowstone River update for today. Bring your patience and some good nymphs or dark streamers, and you’ll find willing trout. Good luck out there and respect the redds—let’s keep those fish coming back for years to come.

Good morning from the banks of the Yellowstone River, this is Artificial Lure reporting from southwest Montana with the latest fishing conditions for April 21, 2025.

The river is in classic early spring form this week. Recent rains and snowmelt have given the Yellowstone a noticeable bump in flow and a bit of color, but don’t let that keep you off the water. The river remains very fishable and, in fact, those off-color stretches can produce some memorable days for anglers willing to adjust their tactics. Fish have transitioned out of winter dormancy and are shifting into spring feeding patterns, searching out food in back eddies, foam holes, and the slower, deeper runs next to moderate current tongues. While the water is clearing up, the best action is still coming in the late morning through the afternoon as things warm up. Mornings remain chilly, but when those temperatures push up into the 50s, the fish activity noticeably increases, and the bites start to come more regularly[1][2].

Trout are stacking up in those winter holding positions, so if you find one you’ll likely find a few more. The hot technique right now is nymphing, with Squirmy Worms, San Juan Worms, and highly visible stonefly patterns leading the charge. Pair those with a bead head attractor nymph in size 16-18, or drop in a larger midge larva or baetis nymph if things get slow. Dead drifting and slow, deep streamer presentations can pick up fish, though nymphing is still putting the most numbers in the net[1][2][5].

Surface action is starting to turn on too, especially on the Paradise Valley spring creeks where the baetis hatch has been solid over the past week. Fish are keying in on baetis nymphs and emergers most consistently, and they’re eating them over midges. On the Yellowstone, expect some mid-morning midge activity but have your March Brown patterns ready for afternoons. The upcoming Mother’s Day caddis hatch is right around the corner, but for now, stoneflies, baetis, March Browns, and caddis larvae are all productive[5].

Recent days have seen a mixed bag of browns and rainbows, with most trout in the 13 to 18 inch range and a few larger fish reported by boaters swinging big streamers in the deeper runs. Anglers working the pools below riffles with nymph rigs have been rewarded with solid numbers, especially after water temps climb out of the low 40s[5].

For the best odds, focus on spots near Livingston below Carbella for wade anglers, and the town stretches closer to Pine Creek or Mallard’s Rest for floaters. If you’re after some classic creek action, Armstrong and DePuy Spring Creeks are hot right now with reliable baetis hatches bringing fish up top[1][5].

No tidal report here on the Yellowstone, but sunrise today is 6:27 AM and sunset is 8:14 PM, giving you plenty of daylight. Layer up for those brisk mornings, watch for the wind, and get out there while the river is still clearing and the fish are hungry. Tight lines from your local source, Artificial Lure[1][2][5].

Good morning anglers, this is Artificial Lure with your April 20th Yellowstone River fishing report, straight from Montana’s heart.

We’re rolling into late April and the river is showing its springtime mood swings. Recent rain and early snowmelt have bumped up flows, adding a bit of color to the water but not enough to keep folks off the river. If anything, the slightly off-color water is making fish a little less wary — so long as you pick your spots and mind your approach.

Mornings are still chilly, with water temps slow to climb, but things really start heating up late morning into the afternoon as the sun works its way overhead. Sunrise today is at 6:23 AM, with sunset at 8:18 PM, so you have plenty of daylight. If you’re fishing early, focus on deeper, slower runs where trout are still holding from winter. Late morning brings midge and baetis hatches, especially on calm days, enough to see some fish rising if you’re patient.

The best action right now is coming on nymph rigs. Top picks include beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Rainbow Warriors, and Zebra Midges in sizes 16 to 22. With the river carrying extra color, Squirmy Worms and San Juan Worms paired with a visible stonefly nymph have been drawing steady strikes. Dead drifting and slow stripping streamers — think olive or black buggers — will move the bigger browns, especially in side channels and near structure, but nymphing is still your best bet for numbers.

Reports from the Paradise Valley spring creeks are just as strong, with consistent baetis hatches bringing fish up for emergers. Fish are feeding well on nymphs and emergers over midges, another sign that spring is in full swing.

If you’re looking for hot spots, Carter’s Bridge to the Highway 89 Bridge is a local favorite, with back eddies and riffles holding pods of rainbows and browns. The stretch from 89 to Big Timber — the Lower Yellowstone — can be less crowded and is known to cough up some of the river’s largest fish this time of year. As always, check ramp accessibility if you’re floating, since spring flows can cause surprises.

No tidal report for us this far inland, but keep an eye on river gauges for flow bumps if you’re planning a trip. Weather today is expected to be in the low 50s by the afternoon, with a chance of wind later. Fish activity has been solid, with plenty of healthy rainbows and browns in the net, especially for anglers nymphing the softer edges and foam lines.

That’s the latest from the Yellowstone — good luck out there, and remember, respect the river, and she’ll reward you. Tight lines!

This is Artificial Lure, back with your Yellowstone River fishing report for Saturday, April 19, 2025.

Weather-wise, spring is finally showing itself around the Yellowstone, but don't let the sunshine fool you—nights are still chilly and the river's running cold, thanks to snowmelt from the high country. Daytime highs are pushing into the 50s and low 60s, with patchy clouds expected. Sunrise hit around 6:30 am and sunset will be close to 8:10 pm today, giving you plenty of daylight to work the water. No tidal swings out here, just steady flows beefed up by runoff.

River conditions are typical for mid-April: water clarity has taken a hit from all the melt and the river's holding that classic early spring off-color look. The fish don't mind as much as you might think. Trout are hugging those consistent runs, usually four to six feet deep with a steady but not ripping current. You want to avoid the real fast stuff for now[2][1].

Fish activity is solid, with rainbows holding steady post-spawn, browns still cruising in the buckets, and a few chunky cutthroats showing up. Anglers this week have reported good numbers—nothing crazy, but folks are putting fish in the net most outings, with 12 to 16-inch trout being the norm and the occasional two-foot surprise. Paradise Valley spring creeks are fishing well too, if you want to sneak in some smaller water[3].

Bug-wise, midges are still present, but Baetis (Blue Winged Olive) mayflies and even a few March Browns are becoming the show. On overcast days, especially late morning into early afternoon, dry fly purists might get a shot at some heads. Still, most fish are coming subsurface.

Best bets for flies and lures:
- Nymphs: Zebra Midges, Perdigons, WD-40s in size 18, and brown Girdle Bugs or TJ Hookers in size 8–10
- Streamers: Small Zirdle Buggers, black or brown Woolly Buggers, dead-drifted or slow stripped
- Dry Flies: Small (#16–22) BWOs and midge clusters like a Griffith’s Gnat—only tie one on if you’re seeing noses poking up[1][5].

Hot spots to try today are Carter’s Bridge down to Mayor’s Landing for a float, or the fast water above Pine Creek access for waders. Also, the confluence areas near DePuy and Armstrong spring creeks are holding hungry fish.

If you head out, dress in layers, bring extra tippet, and be prepared to swap tactics—nymphing will get you numbers, but keep an eye out for rising fish mid-afternoon. Good luck and tight lines out there.

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!

Greetings from the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone River, Montana, where spring fishing is beginning to pick up. Today, April 12, 2025, the river is transitioning into its spring mode, offering a mix of opportunities for dedicated anglers.

The morning air is crisp, with forecasted highs near 50°F and potential overcast skies. Expect late morning to mid-afternoon to be the most active fishing windows, as the water warms up slightly. Sunrise is at 6:40 a.m., and sunset will be at 8:02 p.m., giving a generous amount of daylight for fishing. Streamflows near Livingston remain below average, making it easier to locate trout in deep runs adjacent to riffles and banks.

The spring Baetis and March Brown hatches are now becoming prominent, with some mid-evening surface action reported. Nymphing remains the most reliable method. Drifting beadhead pheasant tails, copper johns (size 16-20), or zebra midges (size 16-22) through slow, deep runs is proving effective. For dry fly anglers, keep Para Adams or Para Purple Haze patterns (sizes 10-18) in your box for rising fish. Streamers such as Frozen Foxes or smaller articulated patterns can also entice a few larger browns and rainbows when fished deep and slow.

Recent catches from Paradise Valley and upstream towards Gardiner include solid numbers of wild brown trout, rainbow trout, and native Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Notable catches include brown trout up to 21 inches and rainbows in the 18-inch range. The lower Yellowstone is also producing some whitefish, though trout action is the main draw.

For hot spots, consider the stretch from Yankee Jim Canyon down through Paradise Valley, particularly around Carbella Access and Mallard's Rest. This section offers stunning scenery and a mix of riffles, pools, and undercut banks – ideal for targeting active fish. For a bit more solitude, the waters just below Gardiner or the spring creeks in the valley provide technical but rewarding fishing.

Baitcasters might want to focus on fishing deeper pools with lures like gold or silver spoons, while fly anglers should stick to their nymphing rigs or slow fished streamers. With the iconic Absaroka backdrop and clear spring waters, now is an excellent time to enjoy the unique character of this mighty freestone river.

Happy fishing, and tight lines! Keep warm, stay safe if wading into the chilly waters, and enjoy the pristine wonders of the Yellowstone River!

Fishing Report for Yellowstone River, Montana – April 11, 2025

Today’s fishing on the Yellowstone River is shaping up to be promising for spring anglers. With the snowpack melting and water clarity improving, trout activity has started to increase. Temperatures in the Yellowstone region today range from around 40°F in the morning to a high of 64°F in the afternoon, with overcast skies expected. These cooler, cloudy conditions create ideal fishing circumstances, particularly for dry fly enthusiasts.

Sunrise this morning was at 6:39 AM, with sunset slated for 7:55 PM, giving anglers plenty of daylight to hit the water. Streamflows are moderate, and the water temperature is slowly rising, currently hovering just below 50°F. The river is transitioning out of winter mode, making it a prime time to target trout in slower, deeper runs with consistent current.

Recent catches on the Yellowstone River have included healthy brown trout and rainbows, with some whitefish in the mix. Last weekend, a stunning 24-inch brown trout was caught near Livingston on a J.J. Special streamer, highlighting the potential for trophy fish this spring. Anglers have reported steady action from mid-morning to late afternoon when water temperatures peak.

Best lures and fly recommendations:
- **Nymphs**: Beadhead Copper Johns (16-20), Beadhead Pheasant Tails (16-20), Zebra Midges (16-22).
- **Dry Flies**: Blue Winged Olive patterns like Parachute Adams and Purple Haze (#16 and #18 sizes).
- **Streamers**: J.J. Special, Black/Olive Zonker, and Olive/Black Sex Dungeon, fished slow and deep along riprap banks and foam holes.

Hatches to watch for include the prolific Baetis (Blue Winged Olives) and midges, which are triggering surface activity during the warmest part of the day. On cooler, overcast afternoons, anglers might spot pods of rising rainbows and whitefish working eddies and banks.

Top fishing spots today include:
1. **Below Livingston**: The stretch between Livingston and Springdale is known for its productive riffles and deeper pools. Visibility here remains decent, making it a great spot for streamer and nymph fishing.
2. **Paradise Valley Spring Creeks**: These waters offer technical fishing but hold high densities of trout. Perfect for those looking to test their skills with small flies and stealthy presentations.

As always, come prepared for variable conditions, as spring weather in Montana can shift rapidly. Dress in layers, carry rain gear, and check river gauges to avoid any surprises. With the fish gearing up for the season, today could offer some memorable catches. Tight lines!

Fishing Report for Yellowstone River, Montana
Date: April 4, 2025

The Yellowstone River is beginning to show signs of spring, offering anglers a promising day of fishing despite the lingering chill. Sunrise today was at 5:38 AM, and sunset is set for 7:08 PM, giving plenty of daylight to cast your lines. Temperatures are cold, with highs reaching 38°F and lows dropping to around 20°F, so dress warmly and prepare for possible snow showers. The river is flowing at 1,040 CFS at Corwin, providing decent conditions for fishing.

Currently, nymphing is the most effective technique, as water temperatures remain cool. Effective patterns include beadhead princes, pheasant tails (sizes 16-20), zebra midges (16-22), and smaller rubber legs in brown or black (sizes 8-12). Midday midge hatches are observed on warmer days, so dry flies like Griffith’s Gnats or purple haze (sizes 16-22) may also lure rising trout. Streamers like Woolly Buggers or Zirdles can be productive when fished slowly in deeper waters.

Recent catches indicate a good mix of species, including Yellowstone cutthroat trout (10-24 inches), brown trout (14-24 inches), rainbow trout (12-22 inches), and Rocky Mountain whitefish (14-18 inches). Anglers report strong action in slower runs and deeper, protected areas where trout are concentrated. The best fishing hours are late morning to mid-afternoon when water temperatures rise slightly, increasing fish activity.

Hot spots include the stretch from Gardiner to Yankee Jim Canyon, known for pocket waters and scenic beauty—ideal for dry fly fishing targeting Yellowstone cutthroats. Another popular section is Paradise Valley near Emigrant, offering easy access and reliable fishing. For larger fish and solitude, consider the lower Yellowstone near Big Timber, where streamer fishing in slower pools can yield trophy browns.

For lures, the tried-and-true Jakes Spin-A-Lure remains a top choice for spin anglers, while fly fishers should focus on matching the seasonal hatches. During this time, blue-winged olives, midges, and early march browns are emerging. Anglers should avoid scented bait, as it is not allowed in Yellowstone, and ensure all hooks are barbless to comply with regulations.

With streamflows stable and pre-runoff conditions still in place, now is a great time to fish the Yellowstone River. Just prepare for variable weather and enjoy the tranquility of this legendary freestone river. Tight lines!