YNP Report - August 1, 2024
Cooler, wetter weather conditions over the past several days have given park fisheries some much needed relief from hot dry conditions. However, Hoot Owl restrictions are still in place for some of our favorite rivers and streams in the park.
Effective Friday, July 26, 2024, the following Yellowstone National Park rivers and streams will close to fishing daily from 2 p.m. to sunrise the following day due to predicted warm-water temperatures and unprecedented low river flows.
- Lamar River downstream of Cache Creek to its confluence with the Yellowstone River.
- Soda Butte Creek (the entire creek).
- Slough Creek (the entire creek).
- Yellowstone River from Tower Junction north to the park boundary.
- Gardner River downstream of Osprey Falls north to the park boundary.
- Snake River from Forest Creek south to the park boundary.
FORTUNATELY, WATER TEMPS COOL QUICKLY OVER NIGHT AT THIS HIGH ELEVATION ALLOWING FOR FISHING DURING PART OF THE DAY - SUNRISE TO 2:00PM.
FROM THE NPS:
Water temperatures are at or are predicted to exceed 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius), and flows on many rivers, streams and creeks are at historic lows. These conditions are extremely stressful to fish and can be fatal. The closures will be reassessed when water temperatures cool and flows return to more typical summer conditions.
Staff will continue to monitor park rivers and streams and watch weather forecasts. The extended forecast calls for continued hot and dry conditions which contribute to continued low stream flows and warm-water temperatures.
Additional closures or restrictions may be implemented if necessary.
Despite the current restrictions, some great fishing options still exist in YNP, and the Gallatin remains at the top of the list. Small hoppers, PMD's, and caddis will drive good dry fly fishing from late morning through the afternoon and evening hours.
As we enter August, it's time to bump your terrestrial boxes up to the top of your fishing pack or vest. Any good terrestrial selection for the park these days should include some hoppers, ants, crickets, and spruce moths.
Yellowstone, Lewis, and Shoshone Lakes will also be great options this week after recent cool weather has brought down water temps at the surface. You can expect to see fish hunting for callibaetis mayflies and damsel flies in these gorgeous stillwater fisheries.
If you're up for a hike, and interested in exploring the YNP backcountry, the Lamar River above Cache Creek is worth the trip. Cache Creek enters the Lamar River roughly 3 miles from the trailhead. From this point upstream the Lamar is fully open without Hoot Owl restrictions, and will fish well with terrestrials like hopers, ants, and spruce moths. Focus your efforts on only the best pieces of holding water, and be prepared to cover some ground in between prime spots. As always, be prepared in the backcountry with bear spray, plenty of water (or a water filter), first aid kit, an extra layer, and rainwear.
If you have any questions about the fishing closures in YNP, or good fishing options in the upcoming week, please don't hesitate giving us a ring in the shop (406) 646-7801. We'd be happy to help you make the most out of your YNP fishing.
