The Yellowstone River continues to improve as flows drop and the river starts to clear up. It's still not what most anglers would consider low and clear, but there is enough visibility now to fish it effectively and people are starting to spend more time on it again.
Nymphing has been the most consistent way to catch fish. Stonefly nymphs, rubberlegs, PMD nymphs, and other attractor patterns have all been producing. Most of the fish have been coming from the softer water along the banks and slower seams where trout can get out of the heavier current.
Streamer fishing has been day to day. A cloudy afternoon can make it worthwhile, while the next day can feel pretty slow. Black and olive streamers have been the better choice for anglers looking to move a fish or two.
The thing most anglers are watching now is the stonefly hatch. We're getting close, and if the river continues to settle down there should be some good opportunities ahead.
The Yellowstone isn't all the way there yet, but it is fishing noticeably better than it was a week ago.
Additional Resources:
- Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide To June
Amber Jiggy Caddis Pupa
Peacock Elk Hair Caddis
Olive Double Gonga
Tungsten Jigged Prince
Prince Nymph
Coffee/Black Restless Stone
Butano Lite Brite Perdigon
Rainbow Warrior Jig
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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