Yellowstone River Fishing Report

Updated 01/30/2026

Current Flow: ~1,370 CFS at Livingston

Winter fishing on the Yellowstone River remains a viable option for anglers who plan carefully around conditions. The river still holds plenty of open water and deeper pools where trout are concentrated, but ice along the banks and larger ice shelves can form on the big freestone water this time of year, so pick access points and wading spots thoughtfully. With recent milder weather and temperatures warming into the 40s–50s over the next week, those ice shelves and slush should break up quickly and improve overall fishability.

Nymphing continues to be the most consistent tactic right now, with most fish holding deep in slower runs and seams where they can conserve energy. Anglers are having success on heavier nymph rigs with stonefly-style attractors like Brown Pat’s Rubberlegs and Perdigons, trailed by smaller patterns like zebra midges, pheasant tails, and smaller perdigons to get down quickly in winter currents. Streamer fishing is also worth a look, especially on cloudier, calmer afternoons when fish are more willing to chase, though results tend to vary from day to day.

Dry-fly activity is limited but not completely absent — look for midge activity on calm, warmer mid-day windows, and be ready with a small parachute midge, cluster midge, or Griffith’s Gnat if you see subtle surface cues. While the Stone isn’t necessarily a “top” winter fishery, focused midday sessions with the right tactics and flies can still produce hookups, and the comfortable, mild forecast should make winter days on the Yellowstone more pleasant and productive in the coming week.

Paradise Valley Spring Creeks are also a great winter 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