Yellowstone River Fly Fishing Report
Current Yellowstone River Fishing Report
Updated 05/09/2026
Current Flow: ~ 5310 CFS at Livingston
The Yellowstone River is officially starting to transition into runoff mode, and this recent stretch of warm weather is accelerating things quickly. Flows are on the rise, the river is beginning to pick up color, and tributaries like the Lamar are already dumping mud into the system. With daytime highs pushing well into the 70s—and even close with 80 degrees early this week—expect the Yellowstone to continue getting bigger and dirtier over the next several days.
At this point, it looks like we’re entering the beginning stages of full runoff on the Yellowstone. As a true freestone river, it responds fast to warm temperatures and snowmelt, and conditions can change dramatically in just a day or two. If we get a cold snap sometime over the next month, there’s still a chance we could see a temporary drop in flows and a short window of clearer, more fishable water. But overall, expect runoff conditions to stick around for a while.
Weather and remaining snowpack will ultimately determine how long runoff lasts, but historically the Yellowstone usually starts coming back into shape sometime from mid-June into early July, depending on the year. Until then, there will likely be much better and more consistent options around southwest Montana, especially on tailwaters and smaller fisheries that aren’t as heavily impacted by snowmelt.
If you do decide to get out on the Yellowstone during runoff, make sure to use extra caution. Rising flows this time of year bring a lot of loose debris, unstable banks, and changing currents. Wading can become dangerous quickly, and floating conditions can also change day to day.
Fishing-wise, it’s not going to be the most productive stretch of the season, but there are still ways to find fish if you put in the time. Focus on slower water close to the banks—soft seams, back eddies, protected shoreline water, and slower structure where fish can get out of the heavy current. Larger profile flies tend to produce best in dirty water conditions. Rubberlegs, big stonefly nymphs, San Juans, and larger streamers are all solid choices right now, especially when fished tight to the bank where visibility is better and fish don’t have to move far to eat.
We’ll continue to keep an eye on flows and clarity over the next few weeks, but for now the Yellowstone is entering its classic spring runoff phase.
Paradise Valley Spring Creeks are also a great spring runoff option - Check Out our Spring Creeks Blog to learn more.
Recommended Flies:
Nymphs: Pat’s Rubberlegs #8-10, Prince Nymph 12-14, Mega Prince #8-10, Perdigon #10-12, Chicago Overcoat #10
Streamers: Black Dungeon, Sparkle Minnow, Sculpzilla (olive/black), Kreelex
Dries: Chubby Chernobyl #10
Learn More About Fly Fishing the Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone River is one of the most iconic and productive trout fisheries in Montana. As the longest undammed river in the lower 48, the Yellowstone provides constantly changing conditions shaped by weather, flows, and seasonal runoff, creating a dynamic fishery that rewards anglers who adapt day to day.
Flowing through Paradise Valley near Livingston, the river supports healthy populations of wild rainbow trout, brown trout, and native Yellowstone cutthroat trout. From large riffles and deep runs to side channels and cutbanks, the Yellowstone offers diverse water types that fish well with a variety of techniques—from nymphing and dry flies to streamer fishing.
Where to Fish the Yellowstone River
The most productive stretches of the Yellowstone River run from Gardiner through Paradise Valley and down past Livingston. Sections like Yankee Jim Canyon offer rugged, technical water with strong fish, while the valley stretches provide broader runs, gravel bars, and classic bank structure that hold trout throughout the season. As you move downstream, the river transitions from higher numbers of cutthroat trout to a mix of larger rainbow and brown trout, offering different opportunities depending on where and when you fish.
👉 Explore Our Complete Yellowstone River Fly Fishing Guide
Book a Guided Fly Fishing Trip on the Yellowstone River
A guided fly fishing trip on the Yellowstone River is the best way to approach this large, ever-changing fishery with confidence. Due to its size and constantly shifting conditions, understanding when and where to fish is key to success—something that comes from time on the water and daily observation.
Our Bozeman fly fishing guides closely monitor flows, clarity, and weather patterns to put you in the best position for success. Whether you’re floating miles of productive water, targeting key hatch windows, or learning how to break down big freestone rivers, we tailor every trip to your experience level and goals.
When conditions line up, the Yellowstone delivers some of the most exciting and rewarding fly fishing in Montana.