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Yellowstone River Fishing

Posted by: Toby Swank

Date: 02/04/2024

Fly Fishing Paradise Valley Montana

Paradise Found: Welcome to Paradise Valley, where the iconic Yellowstone River meanders through breathtaking landscapes, offering some of the finest fly fishing in Montana. With the snow-capped peaks of the Absaroka and Gallatin Mountain ranges lining the horizon and diverse waters teeming with trout, this valley lives up to its name.

The Blue Ribbon Stretch:

Carving its way through Paradise Valley, the Yellowstone River boasts over 40 miles of "blue ribbon" trout fishing – a designation signifying an exceptional quality fishery. From Carbella Fishing Access to Carter's Bridge, expect a vibrant mix of brown and rainbow trout, native Yellowstone Cutthroats, and mountain whitefish.

Variety is the Spice of Life:

Whether you prefer wading or floating, anglers fishing in Paradise Valley can experience both. Access points abound, each offering unique water types. Riffles, cut banks, eddies, and deep pools provide diverse habitats for fish, presenting an array of casting opportunities. While wading close to access points is rewarding, drift boat fishing unlocks vast stretches of the river, maximizing your coverage and respite from crowds.

Exploring Different Sections:

Carbella to Emigrant:

As the river slows down here, long pools, side channels, and thick vegetation create an idyllic trout fishing setting. Dry fly fishing thrives with excellent hatches, and the upper reaches hold more Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout.

The Bird Float:

Grey Owl to Mallard's Rest, known as "The Bird Float," is popular for a reason. Expect big Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout in its mix of pools and undercut banks. While summer brings recreational traffic, the stunning views and abundant wild trout are worth it.

Mallard's Rest to Carter's Bridge:

The river drops quicker here, offering excellent streamer water and productive hatches in pools. The character shifts significantly, providing a diverse Montana fishing experience.

Seasonality Matters:

Early Season:

Look for slower water and rising trout during BWO and Midge hatches in colder months. Fly fishing here during the Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch in late April or early May is an amazing experience. The upper Paradise Valley is among the first fishable sections after runoff in late June.

Mid-Season:

High water pushes fish into protected areas, making fast water and deep holes prime targets when water recedes.
The river explodes with prolific hatches of mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies, creating a feeding frenzy for trout throughout July.
Terrestrials like grasshoppers, ants, and beetles become crucial food sources for resident trout by late July and through August

Late Season:

As autumn arrives, Baetis and Mahogany mayflies provide opportunities for classic "match the hatch" dry fly fishing.
Cooler water temperatures and shorter days stir Brown Trout from their summer runs, creating legendary streamer fly fishing sessions for trophy trout.
The onset of winter brings cold, windy days and ice eventually begins to build along the banks and across the river by December.

A Drifting Dream:

Yellowstone River fly fishing shines when explored by drift boat. The dynamic free-flowing water, coupled with awe-inspiring scenery, makes it a favorite among guides and anglers alike. Even novice anglers can appreciate floating the Yellowstone River simply because of the long, scenic drifts that unfold while fly fishing Paradise Valley Montana.