Yellowstone River
FishableMontana
Current Conditions
The Yellowstone River is running at 1,180 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Oct 9, 2026, 9:00 PM from USGS gauge 06191500 (Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 2000–4000 CFS | Fishable to 8000 CFS | Marginal to 13000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is in the optimal range for trout. Expect good insect activity and feeding.
About the Yellowstone River
The longest undammed river in the lower 48, the Yellowstone flows from Yellowstone National Park through Paradise Valley and into eastern Montana. Known for its legendary salmon fly hatch and spectacular scenery, it offers diverse fishing from mountain meadow streams to broad prairie river.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl #6 | ||||||||||||
Golden Stonefly Stimulator #8 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Parachute Hopper #8 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 |
Active Hatches — October
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18, Sparkle Dun #18, RS2 #20
River Map
River Sections
Gardiner to Livingston
wade/float access1,180 CFS
Paradise Valley section. Stunning mountain scenery with excellent access. Prime salmon fly water in early summer.
Livingston to Big Timber
float access1,610 CFS
Broad valley water with large runs and pools. Float fishing is king here with big browns holding in deep slots.
Guides on the Yellowstone River(99)
These fishing guides list the Yellowstone River as one of their home waters.
Big Sky Anglers
West Yellowstone, Idaho
Westbank Anglers
Wilson, Idaho
WorldCast Anglers
Victor, Idaho
3 Dog Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
Absaroka Beartooth Outfitters
Big Timber, Montana
Adventures Outfitting
Ennis, Montana
Al Gadourys 6X Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
All Valley Anglers Outfitting
Cameron, Montana
Angler’s West Montana Guide Service
Helena, Montana
Avalanche Basin Outfitters
White Sulphur Springs, Montana
Bear Paw Outfitters
Livingston, Montana
Big Sky Expeditions
Helena, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Yellowstone River?+
The Yellowstone River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Yellowstone River in October?+
In October, the Yellowstone River sees Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Yellowstone River?+
Avonture lists 99 fishing guides who operate on the Yellowstone River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Yellowstone River?+
The Yellowstone River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations (waterdata.usgs.gov). Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 2000–4000 CFS.
What fish species are in the Yellowstone River?+
The Yellowstone River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds