Yellowstone River Fishing Report
Date: 12/23/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Yellowstone River is still fishable right now, but conditions have been very wind-dependent. With no snow along the banks and relatively mild temperatures for December, access hasn’t been an issue. Late morning into the afternoon has been the best window when the wind lets up.
Nymphing has been the most reliable way to find fish. Stonefly patterns, zebra midges, pheasant tails, and slim perdigons have all been working when fished deep. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X has been a good fit for most water. Making sure your flies are getting down has mattered more than changing patterns.
Fish have been holding in deeper water where the current is easier to manage. Spending time fishing those areas has paid off more than covering a lot of ground. Shallow water hasn’t produced much lately.
Streamer fishing can still move a fish or two when conditions allow. Smaller sculpin and baitfish-style patterns have been the better choice, but it hasn’t been consistent enough to rely on.
Dry-fly fishing has been limited. Midges are around at times, but surface activity has been minimal, especially on windy days.
Overall, the Yellowstone River is a workable option right now if you pick your timing carefully. Focus on deeper water, start later in the day, and keep things simple.
Additional Resources:
- Yellowstone River Fly Fishing In Winter
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Coffee/Black Restless Stone
Olive Mini Dungeon
Tungsten Jigged Prince
Olive Double Gonga
Brown Pat's Rubberleg
Tan and Yellow Double Gonga
Butano Lite Brite Perdigon
Prince Nymph
Yellowstone River Fishing
Read our "Yellowstone River Fishing Guide" for a detailed overview of fly fishing the Yellowstone River in Montana. This is a great resource for anglers fishing near Bozeman Montana and details the various river stretches and seasonal hatches with tips from our Bozeman fly fishing guides on Yellowstone River fly fishing.
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