Be sure to stay tuned for updates from the Park Service here.

What to expect from fishing the Firehole, Madison, and Gibbon Rivers?

We are excited to have these three fine fisheries open again after a well-deserved break during the hot summer months. The Firehole, Madison, and Gibbon Rivers are the cornerstones of our fall fishing, and they are each coming into good shape for the fall season. Terrestrials are still the main attraction here making for a fun morning outing with hoppers and ants along undercut banks that haven't been fished since June. As temps drop and weather moves in next week, consider a morning session swinging soft hackles and streamers on the Madison. If temps continue to drop we may see these rivers fully open for the remainder of the season. 

Northeast Corner – Slough, Soda Butte & Lamar

There might not be a better time to be fishing in the Northeast corner of Yellowstone Park than the beginning of September, especially with the weather that we have been having, and what's on tap. There's a fun mix of terrestrials and fall hatches on the water, and fish are eager to feed as thousands of years of evolution is telling them that winter is coming. As is always the case in the Cutthroat Corner, mornings will be slow while temps are still in the 40's-50's. Take your time getting out on the water on these beautiful autumn days, and squeeze as much out of the afternoon and evening hours as you can. Flies to have for the upcoming week include  JoJo's Drake Mackerel, Baltz's HiVis Paranymph, and Pavlovich's Sweet Dreams Hopper.

Yellowstone River – Caldera Stretch

September can be a terrific month to find technical dry fly targets on this section of the Yellowstone River. The fish that remain in the system this time of year are often large, and wise. So, don't go without your A-Game. Long casts, long leaders, and good drifts are required to fool these feeding fish. This will remain a spinner game (size #12-18 in rusty) in the mornings, but be prepared to find fish feeding on emerging mayflies (size # 16-18 in olive), often just below the surface. 

Yellowstone River – Canyon Stretches

Cool September mornings are perfect for long hikes into remote backcountry sections of the Yellowstone Canyons, and warm afternoons are ideal for fishing terrestrial like hoppers and ants to remote cutthroat trout - it's a perfect combination. 

Yellowstone Backcountry Essentials: Gear Checklist for Anglers

Whenever you head into the Yellowstone backcountry, preparation is key. This wild and beautiful landscape can also be unpredictable and unforgiving. To stay safe, comfortable, and ready for anything, make sure you pack these essential items:

• Bear spray (and know how to use it)
• Plenty of water and/or a reliable water filter
• Sunscreen for high-altitude UV protection
• Insect repellent for mosquitoes and biting flies
• Lightweight rain jacket for sudden storms
• Extra warm layer (such as a lightweight puffy or fleece)
• Basic first aid kit with bandages and medications
• High-energy snacks for emergencies
• Map and navigation tools (digital or printed, and the skills to use them)

Exploring remote canyons, rivers, and trails in Yellowstone is rewarding, but safety comes first. With the right backcountry gear, you’ll be ready for long hikes, fishing adventures, and everything the wilderness throws your way.

Gallatin River

Dry fly eats on the Gallatin are getting harder and harder to come by as the season rolls on. Increasingly, fish are holding in tighter and sneakier spots. Pay extra attention to undercut banks, and dark pockets below rocks or deadfall. Good drag free drifts are a must here now if you're hoping to fool the biggest of these sneaky fish who have seen plenty of flies by this point in the season. As always on the Gallatin, the best dry fly fishing will be in the late-mornings and afternoons after temps have had a chance to climb. Beforehand, nymph fishing larger runs and pockets can provide fun fishing.