Montana Creeks & Streams Report
Rating
/5
*Parks Fly Shop guides have personally surveyed the waters and given a rating.
Weather
78°F
Water Temp
FLOW
Wind
Map
Hatch Chart
Current Report
The small streams of Montana are fishing excellently, with a plethora of hatches including BWOs, caddis, and some stoneflies. Bug selection should be straightforward—just about any hopper-dropper rig with a size 16-10 dry fly and a nymph in the size range of 18-14 should work perfectly.
USGS Flow Chart
River Descriptions: Montana Creeks & Streams
General Characteristics
- Yellowstone River flows over waterfalls and through a deep canyon with high banks for 30+ miles.
- Divided into Grand & Black Canyons by Lamar River mouth.
- Narrow, deep, fast river with challenging rapids (class IV & V).
- Mostly sheer banks and boulder shores.
- Physically demanding access requiring hiking/scrambling.
- Bottom: gravel/cobble, some boulders, mud (volcanic ash, rain).
- Spring runoff extended in Black Canyon, impacting flow.
Fishery
- Unique combo of decent-sized cutthroat trout.
- Take dry flies, nymphs, streamers.
- Prime spots rare, more unsafe areas than fishable ones.
Fishing Season
- All season after runoff subsides.
- Stoneflies (July), caddis & hoppers (August), mayflies (cooler temps).
- Western Green Drakes & Drake Mackeral prominent.
Recommended Access points
- Charlie White Lake
- Thompson Lake
- Fire Lake
- Elbow Lake
- Pine Creek Lake
- Castle Lake
- George Lake
Skill Level & FIsh Size
- Suitable for all skill levels.
- Average fish: 12-16 inches, potential for low 20s.
additional Notes
- Consider mud impact throughout the season.
Explore Our Guided Trips
Walk & Wade Trips
Explore Yellowstone National Park’s largest expanse of public trout water in the lower 48.
Float Trips
Great for those looking to relax, catch fish, and cover miles on the Yellowstone River.
Private Waters
Dive into exclusive angling experience through private ranch lakes and spring creeks.
Beginner Trips
Discover beginner friendly fly fishing–ideal for families and first time anglers!