Another spring storm is settling over the Park this week, bringing several days of cool temperatures and welcomed moisture. After a winter of below-average snowpack, we've been fortunate to receive timely stretches of wet weather throughout June. This latest round should continue that trend, slowing the pace of the seasonal transition, keeping water temperatures in check, and buying us a little more time on some of Yellowstone's iconic spring fisheries.

FIREHOLE RIVER

The upcoming forecast looks ideal for one last weekend of classic spring dry fly fishing on the Firehole River. Recent warm weather had pushed water temperatures above safe fishing levels on much of the river, but several days of cool, wet weather should bring temperatures back down and trigger one final round of Baetis and Pale Morning Dun hatches before the river transitions fully into its summer pattern.

Look for hatches to begin by late morning under cloudy skies. If you're not finding bugs or rising fish, don't hesitate to move. Hatches can vary dramatically from one stretch of river to the next, and sometimes the difference between a slow day and an unforgettable one is just a mile or two up or downstream.

Even though the forecast looks chilly, it's still important to carry a stream thermometer and watch for water temps that exceed 70 degrees. As always, the further upstream reaches of the Firehole will have cooler water. 

Gibbon River

The Gibbon will also benefit from the return of cool, wet weather. All sections and games will be on the table this week, from dry-dropper session in the canyon water above and below the falls, to stealthy headhunting missions in the upper meadows. 

Gardner River

The Gardner River has provided some fun dry fly fishing with salmonflies over the past week, but the arrival of cool, wet weather will likely slow down that bite. If you can sneak in a quick session before the worst of the scuzz arrives on Saturday, you may still find fish looking for the big bugs. Otherwise, keep an eye out for Pale Morning Dun hatches throughout the cold, damp weekend.

Gallatin River

The Gallatin has produced some lights-out fishing this week with salmonflies, and swarms of caddis choking the banks and streamside willows. As the weather makes an abrupt change this weekend, expect to see the fishing shift to an afternoon mayfly game with hatches of Baetis, Pale Morning Dun, Flav, and Green Drake mayflies.

Hatches could be strong with the conditions that are forecasted, but keep in mind, this is the coldest river in the area, and the best activity likely won't occur until the afternoon hours. Dry-dropper fishing should keep the net wet while you wait for the bugs to roll. 

When warm, dry weather returns next week, expect to see the caddis game resume in full force. 

As always, check in with the shop for the latest conditions, fly recommendations, and river updates. We’re here to help you stay dialed in for your next adventure!