Yellowstone River Fishing Report
Yellowstone River Fishing Report
Updated 03/25/2026
Current Flow: ~ 2160 CFS at Livingston
The Yellowstone River has been a bit more hit or miss lately, but when conditions line up it has been fishing well and continues to show signs of early spring. Warmer temperatures have moved into the region, with daytime highs climbing into the 60s and even low 70s this week, helping bump water temps slightly out of that winter range. The most consistent fishing has been during the late morning into afternoon window as the river warms and fish become more active.
Like the rest of Southwest Montana, wind has been the biggest factor. Some days have been tough, but when you get a break in the wind—even for a few hours—the fishing has been solid. Planning around those calmer windows or targeting more protected stretches has made a big difference in consistency.
Nymphing continues to be the most reliable approach. Double nymph rigs with a stonefly or worm pattern paired with a smaller mayfly nymph or midge have been producing steady results. Fish are still holding in deeper buckets, slower seams, and softer runs—especially early in the day—so getting flies down has been key. As temps warm into the afternoon, fish are starting to spread out a bit more into feeding lanes and transitional water.
Streamer fishing has also been worth mixing in, especially on overcast or windier days. Smaller baitfish and sculpin patterns have been moving fish when fished slow and tight to structure. It’s still not peak streamer season, but action has been improving as water temps slowly climb.
Dry fly fishing has been limited but is trending in the right direction. Midges are the most consistent hatch, and we’re starting to see more Blue Wing Olive activity on cloudy afternoons. These windows have been short and condition dependent, but when things line up, especially out of the wind—fish are willing to come up.
Looking ahead, this warm stretch should continue to push things forward. Expect longer feeding windows, more consistent bug activity, and improving fishing day by day. The Yellowstone is starting to wake up, and while it can still be a bit weather dependent, it’s shaping into a solid early spring option before runoff begins to build later in the season.
Paradise Valley Spring Creeks are also a great spring option - Check Out our Spring Creeks Blog to learn more.
Recommended Flies:
Nymphs: Pat’s Rubberlegs #10–14, Perdigon #16–18, Zebra Midge #18–20, May it Be Baetis #18, Lightning Bug #18, Rainbow Warrior #18, Radiation Baetis #18, Frenchie #18
Streamers: Mini Dungeon, Sparkle Minnow, Sculpzilla (olive/black), Kreelex
Dries: Griffith’s Gnat #18–20, Extended Body BWO #16-18, Brooks Sprout Midge #18
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