Fly Fishing Stream Conditions Report: Yellowstone River

This year: Flow has been variable this month, with some reports indicating high flows and stained water, while others mention low flow around 2440 CFS and 8000 CFS at different points. Clarity has ranged from stained to clear. Fishing quality has been good to great recently. Access notes mention some sections around Livingston are still great to wade fish. Hazards include obstructions or jagged rocks just under the surface in shallower, muddier water. Fishing has been productive in the afternoons. Nymphing is the most reliable method, using two-fly setups with enough weight to reach the bottom. Focus on holding water and slower runs, especially with colder water temps. Streamer fishing has been very good, particularly for larger browns. Fish streamers slow and deep along banks and structure. Dry-dropper rigs offer flexibility during warmer parts of the day. Keep everything down and in the right water; add weight if not ticking bottom. Switch streamer flies often, using dull flies on bright days and bright flies on dark days. Large Green Drake imitations are effective mid-day. Fish are looking up for BWOs and baetis in softer water during afternoons. Blue Wing Olives and Midges have been observed. March Browns and Caddis are also present. Recommended patterns include Prince Nymph, Eastern March Brown Dun, Micro Dungeon, The Headstand, Pat's Midge, Back Flop Jig, Sculpzilla, and Popcorn Beetle. Worm patterns paired with baetis nymphs or pheasant tails are also working.

Best time of day: Afternoon

Prior years: Flow has been good with clear water recently, though some reports mention stained water and high flows. Fishing quality is good and improving. Mid-day fishing has been most productive, especially in Paradise Valley. Be aware that flows can rise quickly, posing a hazard for wading. Nymphing has been the most productive technique, with fish eating large prince nymphs, Baetis nymphs, and midges. Swinging and stripping streamers and wet flies, or dead drifting nymph rigs through pools below riffles has also worked. In warmer afternoons, fish are podding up and eating BWOs, and you might even get away with a Chubby Chernobyl. Expect hatches of Caddis and Blue Wing Olives, with Midges also present. Patterns like Pat's Rubber Legs, Baetis nymphs, and midges are working well. Dry fly anglers can try a Humpy or Chubby Chernobyl, especially during prolific hatches. Streamer fishing is also heating up.