Montana Private Lakes Fishing Report
Rating
/5
*Parks Fly Shop guides have personally surveyed the waters and given a rating.
Weather
39°F
Wind
Map
Annual Thaw Freeze Cycle
Graph coming soon!
Hatch Chart
Current Report
Great callibaetis hatches are lighting up the lakes right now, bringing hungry trout to the surface for some fantastic dry fly action, while a steady streamer bite below keeps things exciting for those fishing deeper. Whether you like drifting delicate dries or stripping aggressive streamers, the lakes are offering solid opportunities throughout the day, making this a prime time to get out and enjoy a mix of topwater and subsurface fishing.
River Descriptions: Private Lakes
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
- Story Ranch
- Sitz Ranch
- Merrill 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.
- These lakes begin icing off in April typically.
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!