Episodes

  • Chilly Fall Fishing on the Yellowstone River with Trout Hunting for Larger Browns

    Chilly Fall Fishing on the Yellowstone River with Trout Hunting for Larger Browns
    Nov 22 2024
    As of November 22, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some excellent late fall fishing opportunities, despite the onset of colder weather.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather is chilly, with overnight temperatures dipping below freezing and daytime highs in the mid-40s to low 50s. Expect cloudy skies with occasional sunshine, which is ideal for the late fall hatches. There is no tidal report to consider, as the Yellowstone River is a freshwater system.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is around 7:30 AM, and sunset is approximately 4:30 PM, giving you a good window for fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has shifted with the cooler temperatures. Trout have moved into deeper, slower runs and pockets, seeking more consistent water temperatures and food sources. Brown trout are in their spawning season, so they are less active but can still be caught, especially with larger streamers.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a mix of rainbow and brown trout being caught. The larger brown trout, particularly those preparing for spawning, are the main target for trophy hunters. Smaller rainbows are also active, especially during the fall baetis hatches.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For nymphing, tandem rigs with beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and Rubber Legs are highly effective. Egg patterns, pink or orange nymphs, and small mayfly nymphs like bead baetis are also good choices[1][3].

    Dry fly fishing is hit or miss but can be rewarding on cloudy days with Blue-Winged Olive hatches. Use extended body BWO patterns, film critic, or hatchback BWO. For smaller mayflies, try size 18 parachutes like Purple Haze or Sparkle Dun[1][3].

    Streamer fishing is another strong option, especially for larger trout. Use large streamers in various profiles and colors to attract aggressive fish.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Below Livingston**: This stretch of the Yellowstone River is known for its consistent fishing, especially with nymphs and streamers. Look for deeper runs and pockets where trout are actively feeding[1][3].
    - **Upper Madison Valley Section**: Although technically part of the Madison River, the Valley Garden section near the Yellowstone River confluence is full of fish. Swinging streamers or nymph fishing in the buckets here can be very productive[1].

    Remember to avoid fishing near redds or through skinny water to respect the brown trout spawning season. Enjoy the late fall fishing on the Yellowstone River, but be prepared for the cold and variable weather conditions.
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    3 mins
  • Late-Fall Fishing on the Chilly Yellowstone River in Montana

    Late-Fall Fishing on the Chilly Yellowstone River in Montana
    Nov 17 2024
    As of November 17th, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some excellent late-fall fishing opportunities, despite the chilly weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather is expected to be cool and potentially windy, especially in the Paradise Valley area, so make sure to check the localized forecasts. With the colder temperatures, water temperatures have plummeted, moving trout into slower, deeper runs.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:30 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing day, especially for those targeting the afternoon Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) hatches.

    ### Fish Activity
    Trout have moved into deeper and slower runs, so target the top of longer runs and the deeper pockets adjacent to riffles, shelves, and banks. Brown trout, particularly large ones, are preoccupied with spawning, making them more aggressive and susceptible to larger streamers.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good number of trout caught, particularly rainbows and browns. The larger browns are actively pursuing smaller trout and baitfish, making streamer fishing highly effective. Nymphing is also producing well, especially with tandem nymph rigs.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For streamer fishing, articulated sculpin imitations like Sculpzillas, Skiddish Smolts, and Zonkers are working well. If you prefer nymphing, beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and Rubber Legs are top choices. For dry fly fishing, smaller parachutes like the Purple Haze, Sparkle Dun, and BWO cripple patterns in size 18 are effective during the afternoon hatches.

    ### Hot Spots
    The sections of the Yellowstone River below Livingston and up into the park are fishing well. The Valley Garden section of the upper Madison River, which feeds into the Yellowstone, is also full of fish and worth a visit. For specific spots, look at the undercut banks and tailouts of long runs, and the deeper holes near Big Timber.

    ### Additional Tips
    Avoid fishing near redds or through skinny water as this is brown trout spawning season. Use finer tippets and fluorocarbon lines due to the low, clear water conditions. If you see BWOs hatching, try extended body BWO patterns or film critic flies. For October caddis, twitching a size 12 royal chubby or size 14 orange stimulator can be very effective.

    With the right gear and knowledge, you should have a productive and enjoyable day on the Yellowstone River. Just remember to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold and wind.
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    3 mins
  • Yellowstone River Late Fall Fishing: Pursuing Trophy Trout in Cooler Conditions

    Yellowstone River Late Fall Fishing: Pursuing Trophy Trout in Cooler Conditions
    Nov 16 2024
    As of November 16, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some excellent late-fall fishing opportunities, despite the chilly weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Water Conditions
    The weather is cool and cloudy, with temperatures expected to remain in the mid-40s to low 50s, making it ideal for trout activity. Water temperatures have plummeted, pushing trout into slower, deeper runs. Streamflows are well below average, but this makes it easier to locate the fish.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at around 7:15 AM, and sunset is at approximately 4:30 PM. These times are crucial as trout tend to be more active during the low-light hours.

    ### Fish Activity
    Trout have moved into deeper and slower runs, particularly next to shallow water, adjacent to riffles, shelves, and banks. They are actively feeding in areas with consistent current and food sources. Brown trout, especially larger ones, are preoccupied with spawning, making them less cautious and more susceptible to larger streamers.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good number of trout caught, including both rainbows and browns. The larger brown trout are the main target for trophy hunters, who are dragging large streamers through the deepest holes. Smaller trout are also active, particularly on dry flies during the Blue-Winged Olive hatches.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For nymphing, tandem rigs with beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and Rubber Legs are highly effective. Egg patterns and pink or orange nymphs are also good choices. For dry fly fishing, extended body Blue-Winged Olives, film critics, or hatchback Blue-Winged Olives work well. If you see October caddis, try twitching a size 12 royal chubby or size 14 orange stimulator. Streamers such as zonkers and crayfish patterns are productive, especially in the low-light morning hours.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Paradise Valley**: This area is known for its consistent fishing conditions and is a great spot to target trophy trout with large streamers.
    - **Below Livingston**: This section of the Yellowstone River has been reporting good catches with both nymphs and streamers. The deeper runs and slower currents here are ideal for late-fall fishing.
    - **Gallatin Canyon**: Although this is on the Gallatin River, it's nearby and worth mentioning for its early afternoon dry fly fishing opportunities, especially in shaded areas.

    Overall, the Yellowstone River is in great shape for late-fall fishing, with the cooler temperatures and cloud cover making for an excellent day on the water. Just be prepared for the cold and windy conditions that can arise this time of year.
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    3 mins
  • Late-Fall Yellowstone River Fishing: Trout Tactics, Hot Spots, and Weather Tips

    Late-Fall Yellowstone River Fishing: Trout Tactics, Hot Spots, and Weather Tips
    Nov 15 2024
    As of November 15, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some excellent late-fall fishing opportunities, despite the chilly weather.

    ### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 45°F and a low of 28°F. Sunrise is at 7:17 AM, and sunset will be at 4:34 PM. Be prepared for potential wind, especially in the Paradise Valley area.

    ### Water Conditions
    Streamflows on the Yellowstone River are currently well below average, making it easier to locate trout. The water temperatures have plummeted, moving trout into the slow, deep runs and pockets, typically 4-6 feet deep with some current[5].

    ### Fish Activity
    Trout activity is picking up with the cooler temperatures. Nymphing and streamer fishing are the most effective techniques right now. Trout are actively feeding on stoneflies, worms, eggs, prince nymphs, and various generalist nymph patterns. Blue-winged olive hatches are still present, especially on mild, overcast days, making dry fly fishing viable in the early afternoons[3][4].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For nymphing, use tandem rigs with beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and Rubber Legs. Egg patterns, especially those with pink or orange beads, are also productive. Streamer fishing is heating up, with articulated sculpin imitations like Sculpzillas, Skiddish Smolts, and Zonkers working well. On bright days, fish streamers under an indicator for better results[1][5].

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best areas to fish is below Livingston, where the river offers a mix of deep holes and undercut banks ideal for streamer fishing. Another hot spot is the section near Big Timber, where the slower runs and deeper pockets are holding a good number of trout[3][5].

    ### Recent Catches
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of brown and rainbow trout, with some larger browns taken on streamers and smaller trout on nymphs and dry flies. The dry fly bite has been hit or miss, but those who timed it right with the Blue-winged olive hatches had some success.

    Overall, November is a great time to fish the Yellowstone River, with fewer anglers on the water and productive fishing conditions. Just be prepared for the cold and potential wind.
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    3 mins
  • Late-Fall Fishing on the Yellowstone River - A Montana Angler's Guide

    Late-Fall Fishing on the Yellowstone River - A Montana Angler's Guide
    Nov 10 2024
    As of November 10, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some excellent late-fall fishing opportunities, despite the chilly weather setting in. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
    Today, expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit. Sunrise is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:30 PM. Check localized weather forecasts, as wind conditions can vary significantly between Paradise Valley and Big Timber.

    ### Water Conditions
    Streamflows on the Yellowstone River are currently well below average, making it easier to locate trout. Focus on deeper water next to shallow areas, adjacent to riffles, shelves, and banks. Trout are holding in water that is 4-6 feet deep with some current, as this is where food is consistently available.

    ### Fish Activity
    With the cooler temperatures, trout have moved into deeper and slower runs. Brown trout, particularly, are preoccupied with fall spawning, making them more susceptible to large streamers. Rainbow trout are actively feeding on small mayflies, especially during the fall baetis hatch.

    ### Catch Reports
    Yesterday saw a mix of trout species caught, with a notable increase in larger brown trout taking large streamers. Nymphing with tandem rigs also produced a good number of rainbows and browns. The most successful flies included beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, and Prince Nymphs, along with streamers like articulated sculpin imitations and zonkers.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For nymphing, use tandem rigs with beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, and Prince Nymphs in sizes 14-20. Egg patterns and worms are also effective. For dry fly fishing, target the fall baetis hatch with extended body Blue-Winged Olive patterns, such as the Para Purple Haze or Sparkle Dun in size 18. If you encounter October caddis, try twitching a size 12 Royal Chubby or size 14 Orange Stimulator.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best areas to fish is below Livingston, where the river offers a mix of deep holes and slower runs. Another hot spot is the section from Livingston up into Yellowstone National Park, where the cooler temperatures have improved fishing conditions significantly. The top of longer and slower runs, especially where they meet riffles or shelves, are prime locations to find feeding trout.

    Overall, November can be a magical time to fish the Yellowstone River, with the potential for trophy trout and productive fishing despite the cold and windy conditions. Dress warmly, be prepared, and you should find some success on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Yellowstone River Primed for Late-Fall Trout Fishing

    Yellowstone River Primed for Late-Fall Trout Fishing
    Nov 9 2024
    As of November 9, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some excellent late-fall fishing opportunities. With the cooler weather setting in, water temperatures have dropped significantly, prompting trout to move into the slower, deeper runs.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather is expected to be cool and cloudy, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. Sunrise is at around 7:15 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:30 PM. These conditions are ideal for both dry fly and streamer fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been consistent, particularly with the recent Blue-Winged Olive hatches, although these hatches have been waning. However, the fall baetis hatch is still active on mild, overcast days, especially in the early afternoons. Trout are now holding in deeper water, typically 4-6 feet deep, next to shallow water, adjacent to riffles, shelves, and banks where there is some current.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Anglers have been reporting a mix of rainbow and brown trout, with the larger brown trout actively pursuing smaller trout and baitfish as they prepare for spawning. The river is known for its trophy-sized trout, and this time of year is prime for catching them.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For nymph fishing, tandem rigs with beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and green machines have been highly effective. Egg patterns and pink or orange nymphs are also good choices. For dry fly fishing, smaller parachute patterns like the Purple Haze, Sparkle Dun, and Brook's Sprout Baetis in size 18 are working well for the tiny mayflies. Streamer fishing with large, articulated patterns such as the Dungeon, Ditch Witch, or Goldie can produce heart-stopping strikes from trophy-sized fish.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots right now is below Livingston, where the river offers a variety of fishing options. The section above Point of Rocks is also excellent for dry fly fishing, especially with cool, cloudy weather. For those looking to target deeper runs, the Valley Garden section of the upper Yellowstone River is full of fish and is a great place to swing a streamer or fish nymphs in the buckets.

    Overall, the Yellowstone River is in great shape for late fall fishing, and with the right gear and knowledge of the river, anglers can have a very successful day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Fall Trophy Trout Hunting on the Famed Yellowstone River

    Fall Trophy Trout Hunting on the Famed Yellowstone River
    Nov 8 2024
    As of November 8th, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some exciting fishing opportunities, despite the cooler and sometimes windy conditions of the fall season.

    ### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 45°F and a low of 28°F. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 4:34 PM. Check the localized weather forecasts, as conditions can vary significantly between Paradise Valley and Big Timber.

    ### Water Conditions
    Streamflows on the Yellowstone River are currently well below average, making it easier to locate trout. The water is clear, and trout are congregating in deeper runs and pockets, particularly where there is some current. Look for areas next to shallow water, adjacent to riffles, shelves, and banks.

    ### Fish Activity
    November is a prime time for trophy trout hunting on the Yellowstone River. Large brown trout, preoccupied with fall spawning, can be caught using large streamers, especially on cloudy days. Dry fly fishing is also productive, particularly during late mornings when the fall baetis hatch is active. Trout are feeding consistently in water that is 4-6 feet deep with moderate current.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good number of trout caught, including large brown trout and rainbows. The larger trout are actively pursuing smaller trout and baitfish as they prepare for spawning.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For nymphing, tandem nymph rigs with beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and Rubber Legs are highly effective. Dry fly anglers should use smaller parachute patterns like the Purple Haze, Sparkle Dun, and Brook's Sprout Baetis in size 18 to target the tiny mayflies and Blue-Winged Olives. Streamer fishing with articulated sculpin imitations, zonkers, and crayfish patterns can yield impressive results, especially in the undercut banks and tailouts of long runs.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Paradise Valley**: This area is known for its deeper holes and undercut banks, making it ideal for streamer fishing.
    - **Big Timber**: The sections around Big Timber offer good dry fly fishing opportunities, especially during late mornings when the baetis hatch is active.

    Overall, the Yellowstone River is in great shape for fall fishing, with consistent trout activity and a variety of effective fishing techniques. Just remember to dress warmly and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
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    3 mins