Fly Fishing the Yellowstone River

Fly fishing the Yellowstone River near Paradise Valley, Montana is a dream come true for many anglers. Stunning scenery, and an abundance of fish, it’s no wonder why this location is considered one of the top fly fishing destinations in the world.

The Yellowstone River is the longest undammed river in the contiguous United States and runs for 692 miles through Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota. The river flows through Paradise Valley, which is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and is home to some of the best fly fishing in Montana.

Stunning Scenery on the Yellowstone

One of the best things about fly fishing the Yellowstone River is the stunning scenery. The river winds its way through the heart of Montana, which is surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. Wildlife is also abundant in the area, and it’s not uncommon to see eagles, bighorn sheep, elk, and even grizzly bears.

Yellowstone Fly Fishing Access

When it comes to fly fishing on the Yellowstone River, there are several popular stretches of water that are worth exploring. The section of the river that runs through the Paradise Valley. A particularly popular area with several access points along the river.

Where to start

One of the best places to start your fishing trip is at the Yellowstone River Bridge. This access point is located just south of Livingston, and provides easy access to some of the best fishing on the river. From here, you can explore the river upstream or downstream and find plenty of opportunities to catch trout.

Another popular access point is the Carbella Fishing Access Site, which is located about 14 miles south of Livingston. This site provides easy access, making it a great spot to launch a drift boat or spend the day wade fishing .

Off the beaten Path

If you’re looking for a more remote fishing experience, then the upper section is a great option. This section of the river runs through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and is only accessible by foot or horseback. The fishing in this area is excellent, and the scenery is some of the best in the world.

When it comes to fly fishing on the Yellowstone River, there are several techniques that anglers use to catch fish. Popular methods include nymphing, dry fly fishing and streamer fishing. This method can be effective all season long.

Rods and Equipment for the Yellowstone

When it comes to gear, a 9-foot fly rod in 5-6 weight for fishing on the Yellowstone River. This rod length and weight provide enough power to cast large flies and sensitive enough to accurately casting dry flies. A reel with a smooth drag system is also important. Trout in the Yellowstone River can be quite strong and can be a handful when in heavy current.

In terms of flies, there are several patterns that work well on the Yellowstone River. Nymph patterns such as the Hare’s Ear, Pheasant Tail, Pat’s rubber legs and Copper John are all popular choices. Dry flies can range from big stoneflies, hoppers and attractors.