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!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 31, 2025.

Spring's finally sprung, but Old Man Winter's still throwing a few punches. Today's looking partly cloudy with highs near 50°F and lows dipping to 32°F overnight. Sunrise was at 7:01 AM and sunset will be at 7:50 PM, so we're getting plenty of daylight to wet our lines.

The Yellowstone's running a bit high and off-color due to some recent snowmelt, but don't let that scare you off. Water temps are hovering around 44-46°F in most spots. No need to worry about tides here in our mountain paradise - we leave that ocean stuff to the coastal folks.

Fish activity has been picking up as we edge deeper into spring. Rainbows and cutthroats are getting more active, with some nice 16-20 inchers being caught. A few lucky anglers have even landed some bruiser brown trout in the 22-inch range. Mountain whitefish are still around in good numbers too.

For lures, I've been having luck with small gold or silver spoons, especially in deeper runs. Soft plastic minnow imitations in white or pearl have also been producing. If you're a fly fisher, don't leave home without some Woolly Buggers, San Juan Worms, and small stonefly nymphs. March Browns and spring Baetis are starting to show up, so keep an eye out for rising fish.

Bait anglers are doing well with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Just remember, it's artificial lures and flies only in some sections, so check those regs before you head out.

As for hot spots, the stretch near Emigrant has been fishing well lately. The water around the 9th Street Bridge in Livingston is another good bet, especially if you're shore fishing. For you adventurous types willing to hike a bit, the canyon section upstream of Gardiner can offer some solitude and big fish this time of year.

Remember to layer up - it might be spring, but it's still chilly out there. And don't forget your polarized glasses to help spot those fish in the slightly murky water.

Tight lines, and I'll catch you on the river!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 30, 2025. Spring is trying its best to arrive, but Old Man Winter ain't quite ready to let go just yet. We've had a mix of sunny days and cold snaps lately, keeping the fish and us anglers on our toes.

Today's looking partly cloudy with highs near 45°F and lows dipping to 28°F overnight. Sunrise was at 7:22 AM and sunset will be at 7:32 PM, so we're gaining daylight by the day. The Yellowstone's running a bit high and off-color due to some recent snowmelt, but don't let that scare you off. Water temps are hovering around 42-44°F in most spots.

Fish activity has been picking up as we edge closer to spring. Rainbows and cutthroats are starting to get more active, with some nice 14-18 inchers being caught. A few lucky anglers have even landed some bruiser brown trout in the 20-inch range. Mountain whitefish are still around in good numbers too.

For lures, I've been having luck with small gold or silver spoons, especially in deeper runs. Soft plastic minnow imitations in white or pearl have also been producing. If you're a fly fisher, don't leave home without some Woolly Buggers, San Juan Worms, and small stonefly nymphs. Bait anglers are doing well with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Just remember, it's artificial lures and flies only in some sections, so check those regs before you head out.

As for hot spots, the stretch near Emigrant has been fishing well lately. The water around the 9th Street Bridge in Livingston is another good bet, especially if you're shore fishing. For you adventurous types willing to hike a bit, the canyon section upstream of Gardiner can offer some solitude and big fish this time of year.

Remember to layer up and bring some hand warmers - it's still chilly out there. Tight lines, and I'll catch you on the river!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 28, 2025.

Spring's finally showin' its face around these parts, but Old Man Winter's still tryin' to hang on. Today's lookin' partly cloudy with highs near 50°F and lows dipping to 30°F overnight. Sunrise was at 7:02 AM and sunset'll be at 7:42 PM, so we're gainin' daylight by the day. No need to worry about tides here in our mountain paradise - we leave that ocean stuff to the coastal folks.

The 'Stone's runnin' a bit high and off-color due to some recent snowmelt, but don't let that scare ya off. Water temps are hoverin' around 44-46°F in most spots. Fish activity's been pickin' up as we edge closer to spring. Rainbows and cutthroats are gettin' more active, with some nice 14-18 inchers bein' caught. A few lucky anglers have even landed some bruiser brown trout in the 20-inch range. Mountain whitefish are still around in good numbers too.

For lures, I've been havin' luck with small gold or silver spoons, especially in deeper runs. Jake's Spin-A-Lures have been workin' wonders too. Soft plastic minnow imitations in white or pearl have also been producin'. If you're a fly fisher, don't leave home without some Woolly Buggers, San Juan Worms, and small stonefly nymphs. March Browns and spring Baetis are startin' to show up, so keep an eye out for risin' fish.

Bait anglers are doin' well with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Just remember, it's artificial lures and flies only in some sections, so check those regs before you head out.

As for hot spots, the stretch near Emigrant has been fishin' well lately. The water around the 9th Street Bridge in Livingston is another good bet, especially if you're shore fishin'. For you adventurous types willin' to hike a bit, the canyon section upstream of Gardiner can offer some solitude and big fish this time of year.

Remember to layer up - it's still chilly out there. Tight lines, and I'll catch you on the river!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 26, 2025. Spring's trying its best to arrive, but Old Man Winter's still hanging on a bit. Today's looking partly cloudy with highs near 45°F and lows dipping to 28°F overnight. Sunrise was at 7:13 AM and sunset will be at 7:38 PM, so we're gaining daylight by the day. No need to worry about tides here in our mountain paradise - we leave that ocean stuff to the coastal folks.

Water temps are hovering around 42-44°F in most spots. The Yellowstone's running a bit high and off-color due to some recent snowmelt, but don't let that scare you off. Fish activity has been picking up as we edge closer to spring. Rainbows and cutthroats are starting to get more active, with some nice 14-18 inchers being caught. A few lucky anglers have even landed some bruiser brown trout in the 20-inch range. Mountain whitefish are still around in good numbers too.

For lures, I've been having luck with small gold or silver spoons, especially in deeper runs. Soft plastic minnow imitations in white or pearl have also been producing. If you're a fly fisher, don't leave home without some Woolly Buggers, San Juan Worms, and small stonefly nymphs. March Browns and spring Baetis are starting to show up, so keep an eye out for rising fish.

Bait anglers are doing well with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Just remember, it's artificial lures and flies only in some sections, so check those regs before you head out.

As for hot spots, the stretch near Emigrant has been fishing well lately. The water around the 9th Street Bridge in Livingston is another good bet, especially if you're shore fishing. For you adventurous types willing to hike a bit, the canyon section upstream of Gardiner can offer some solitude and big fish this time of year.

Remember to layer up - it's still chilly out there. Tight lines, and I'll catch you on the river!

Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 24, 2025. The weather's been warming up nicely, with highs around 50°F today. Sunrise was at 7:12 AM and sunset will be at 7:38 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines.

The Yellowstone's running clear and low for this time of year, sitting at about 698 CFS near Corwin. Water temps are still chilly, hovering in the low 40s. Despite the cold water, we're seeing some good action as fish start to get more active.

Rainbows and browns have been the main catches lately, with a few cutthroats mixed in. Most folks are having luck nymphing with smaller patterns like Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, and Zebra Midges in sizes 16-20. Don't forget to trail an egg pattern or San Juan Worm - those have been hot tickets too.

For you streamer junkies, now's the time to start chucking the big stuff. Olive and black Woolly Buggers, Sculpzillas, and Sparkle Minnows have been moving some nice fish. Let 'em sink and strip slow.

If you're itching for some dry fly action, keep an eye out for midges and the occasional Blue-Winged Olive hatch. A size 18-20 Griffith's Gnat or Parachute Adams can do the trick if you spot risers.

For you spin fishing folks, Panther Martins and small Rapalas in gold or rainbow trout patterns have been producing. Don't forget about the good ol' Mepps spinner too - can't go wrong with a classic.

Hot spots to check out: The stretch from Yankee Jim Canyon down to Emigrant has been fishing well. For a shot at bigger browns, try the lower river near Big Timber. If you're looking for some solitude, the section below Livingston towards Grey Cliff has been less crowded.

Remember, it's still early season, so dress warm and be careful wading. The bite's been best mid-day when the sun's high, so no need for that crack-of-dawn start. Tight lines, folks!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 23, 2025. Spring's trying its best to arrive, but Old Man Winter's still hanging on by his fingernails. We've had a mix of warm and cold days lately, keeping us and the fish on our toes.

Today's looking partly cloudy with highs near 45°F and lows dipping to 28°F overnight. Sunrise was at 7:13 AM and sunset will be at 7:38 PM, so we're gaining daylight by the day. No need to worry about tides here in our mountain paradise - we leave that ocean stuff to the coastal folks.

Water temps are hovering around 42-44°F in most spots. The Yellowstone's running a bit high and off-color due to some recent snowmelt, but don't let that scare you off. Fish activity has been picking up as we edge closer to spring. Rainbows and cutthroats are starting to get more active, with some nice 14-18 inchers being caught. A few lucky anglers have even landed some bruiser brown trout in the 20-inch range. Mountain whitefish are still around in good numbers too.

For lures, I've been having luck with small gold or silver spoons, especially in deeper runs. Soft plastic minnow imitations in white or pearl have also been producing. If you're a fly fisher, don't leave home without some Woolly Buggers, San Juan Worms, and small stonefly nymphs. March Browns and spring Baetis are starting to show up, so keep an eye out for rising fish.

Bait anglers are doing well with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Just remember, it's artificial lures and flies only in some sections, so check those regs before you head out.

As for hot spots, the stretch near Emigrant has been fishing well lately. The water around the 9th Street Bridge in Livingston is another good bet, especially if you're shore fishing. For you adventurous types willing to hike a bit, the canyon section upstream of Gardiner can offer some solitude and big fish this time of year.

Remember to layer up - it's still chilly out there. Tight lines, and I'll catch you on the river!

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 22, 2025.

Spring is trying its best to arrive, but Old Man Winter ain't quite ready to let go just yet. We've had a mix of sunny days and cold snaps lately, keeping the fish and us anglers on our toes. Today's looking partly cloudy with highs near 35°F and lows dipping to 18°F overnight. Sunrise was at 6:32 AM and sunset will be at 6:20 PM, so we're gaining daylight by the day.

The Yellowstone's running a bit high and off-color due to some recent snowmelt, but don't let that scare you off. Water temps are hovering around 40-42°F in most spots. No need to worry about tides here in our mountain paradise - we leave that ocean stuff to the coastal folks.

Fish activity has been picking up as we edge closer to spring. Rainbows and cutthroats are starting to get more active, with some nice 14-18 inchers being caught. A few lucky anglers have even landed some bruiser brown trout in the 20-inch range. Mountain whitefish are still around in good numbers too.

For lures, I've been having luck with small gold or silver spoons, especially in deeper runs. Soft plastic minnow imitations in white or pearl have also been producing. If you're a fly fisher, don't leave home without some Woolly Buggers, San Juan Worms, and small stonefly nymphs.

Bait anglers are doing well with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Just remember, it's artificial lures and flies only in some sections, so check those regs before you head out.

As for hot spots, the stretch near Emigrant has been fishing well lately. The water around the 9th Street Bridge in Livingston is another good bet, especially if you're shore fishing. For you adventurous types willing to hike a bit, the canyon section upstream of Gardiner can offer some solitude and big fish this time of year.

Remember to layer up and bring some hand warmers - it's still chilly out there. Tight lines, and I'll catch you on the river!

Howdy folks, Artificial Lure here with your Yellowstone River fishing report for March 21, 2025. Spring's trying to make an appearance, but Old Man Winter's still hanging on tight. We've had a mix of sunny days and cold snaps lately, keeping us anglers on our toes. Today's looking partly cloudy with highs near 35°F and lows dipping to 18°F overnight. Sunrise was at 7:15 AM and sunset will be at 7:30 PM, so we're finally getting some decent daylight hours.

The Yellowstone's running a bit high and off-color due to some recent snowmelt, but don't let that scare you off. Water temps are hovering around 40-42°F in most spots. No need to worry about tides here in our mountain paradise - we leave that ocean stuff to the coastal folks.

Fish activity has been picking up as we edge closer to spring. Rainbows and cutthroats are starting to get more active, with some nice 14-18 inchers being caught. A few lucky anglers have even landed some bruiser brown trout in the 20-inch range. Mountain whitefish are still around in good numbers too.

For lures, I've been having luck with small gold or silver spoons, especially in deeper runs. Soft plastic minnow imitations in white or pearl have also been producing. If you're a fly fisher, don't leave home without some Woolly Buggers, San Juan Worms, and small stonefly nymphs.

Bait anglers are doing well with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Just remember, it's artificial lures and flies only in some sections, so check those regs before you head out.

As for hot spots, the stretch near Emigrant has been fishing well lately. The water around the 9th Street Bridge in Livingston is another good bet, especially if you're shore fishing. For you adventurous types willing to hike a bit, the canyon section upstream of Gardiner can offer some solitude and big fish this time of year.

Remember to layer up and bring some hand warmers - it's still chilly out there. Tight lines, and I'll catch you on the river!