Montana Spring Creeks Fishing Report
Rating
/5
*Parks Fly Shop guides have personally surveyed the waters and given a rating.
Weather
48°F
Wind
Map
Annual THaw Freeze Cycle
Graph coming soon!
Hatch Chart
Current Report
Midges, BWOs, and very soon to be PMDs! Hatches have been blanketing. From now until Late June you will get some of the best dry fly fishing one can get.
Flies we recommend: Film Critic PMD, Extended Body PMDs, Soda Fountain, Split Case PMDs, and May Midges.
River Descriptions: Private Spring Creeks
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
- Deputy’s Spring Creek
- Armstrong Spring Creek
- Nelson Spring Creek
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.
- There is no run off
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!