Anne with her “Lagoon Monster.” Photo by Nick. 5.9.2020.

Fishing Report 5.11.2020

We have been blessed with some cooler temperatures these past few days. The Yellowstone River has had time to stabilize a bit and gain some clarity which is awesome. On warmer days, there are tons of Mother’s Day Caddis out. With the increased water clarity, the fish have been looking up. If you get out on the Yellowstone River this week, there will likely be a decent sampling of Caddis, March Browns, Beitis, and Midges on the water. Obviously, having minimal wind and good water clarity will create the best conditions for dry-fly anglers. Fish the foam holes, slow water, and cast to risers. You can always drop a soft-hackle or Waltz Worm off your dry-fly, too. Generally speaking, the river will have better visibility the higher up stream you go…. but, the water temps will be warmer around Livingston and further DOWNSTREAM. Pick your poison when you choose your float. If it is windy (likely) or the fish just aren’t looking up, nymphing with a Rubber legs and a smaller nymph (Waltz Worm, soft hackle, etc) dropped off the back has been the most productive.

Water Clarity Update

Honestly, about a week ago we thought the Spring fishing season on the Yellowstone was over. Our weather got really warm, everyone was WEARING flip-flops on the river, the Snow started to melt, and the Yellowstone became high and muddy, fast. But, don’t count out Mother Nature. This past week, the weather has gotten a little cooler, and the clarity has increased. Below are a few pictures of how the clarity has improved from last wednesday when it started to get a little CHILLY. Ideally, we are looking for 18 inches of visibility or so. Fish can’t eat if they can’t see, but 18+ inches is all they need right now to go after a fly.

This week 5.11.20

Our weather this week looks like it will stay on the cooler side. This is great if you want to float the Yellowstone RIver with one of our Yellowstone River Fishing Guides. We expect the clarity to improve and maintain throughout this week, and fishing should be good! We have guides available who would love to guide you on either the Yellowstone RIver or the Boulder River. Both are freestone Rivers, and are getting clearer as we speak. WE are currently offering our LOCAl’S Special trips for local anglers or anglers who have already QUARANTINEd in Montana for AT LEAST 14 days. Go on a full-day guided fishing trip for the price of a half-day trip! Bring your own lunch.

COVID-19 and Yellowstone National PArk Update

Montana is currently in phase 1 of our state’s OPENING. Starting This Friday, May 15, Montana will progress into phase 2- all gyms, movie theaters, museums, etc. will be open with limited restrictions..
Yellowstone national Park has not issued an open date, yet… But, hopefully around the end of this month/ early June!
Montana still has a 14 day QUARANTINE for out of state anglers. Neighboring states are planning to lift or have already lifted their QUARANTINES…… We expect Montana to follow, and will keep updates coming!
Montana has 20 active cases of COVID-19 (as of 5.10.20). We are washing our hands, using 9ft rods for social distancing, and wear buffs on and off the river.

Great fishing options right now

Floating the Yellowstone River
Floating the Boulder River… depending on flows
Fishing the Spring Creeks in Livingston
Fishing our local secluded private lakes
the Missouri River (2 day minimum)

Yellowstone River Outfitters- Carbella to Point

Great weather and water clarity on 5.9.2020

We are currently taking bookings for both this summer and summer 2021! If you have any questions about the most up to date fishing reports, Yellowstone Reports, or want to book a trip….. give us a call! Bring your rain jacket this week and an extra layer. It will be worth getting out, and you don’t know until you go!

Tight Lines,

Yellowstone River Outfitters