As of December 19, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is experiencing the full grip of winter, which has significantly slowed down the fishing activity. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the river:
### Weather and Conditions
The weather forecast indicates cold and snowy conditions, with daytime temperatures barely rising above freezing. This means the river will be icy, especially in the mornings and evenings. Be cautious of low flows and ice dams that can make navigation challenging.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise is at around 8:00 AM, and sunset is at approximately 4:30 PM. The best fishing times will be during the warmer parts of the day, typically after lunch.
### Fish Activity
Trout have moved into deeper and slower runs and pockets, seeking consistent flow and food sources. They are not as actively feeding as they were a few weeks ago, but you can still get into some solid action during the warmer hours.
### Types and Amounts of Fish
Reports from the past few days indicate that the section from Carters Bridge to Livingston is producing the best results. You can expect to catch rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. The numbers are not as high as in warmer months, but consistent effort can yield several fish per day.
### Best Lures and Bait
Nymphing is the name of the game right now. Use stoneflies, small attractor nymphs like beadhead Pheasant Tails and Copper Johns, and egg patterns. Rubber legs trailed by a prince nymph or a small dark Perdigon are also effective. For streamers, larger flies like the double gonga, sex dungeon, and Schultz’y sculpin have been working well. If you see fish rising, dry flies such as buzzballs or Griffith’s gnats can be successful.
### Hot Spots
- **Carbella Access**: Just below the Yellowstone River Bridge, this spot is known for its variety of trout.
- **Point of Rocks**: Above the Yankee Jim Canyon, this area offers good holding spots for winter trout.
- **Tom Miner Bridge**: In Paradise Valley, this spot is renowned for large trout and beautiful scenery.
- **Emigrant Fishing Access**: Just south of Emigrant, this area provides good winter fishing conditions.
Remember to respect the trout and avoid areas where they are spawning. Stay safe, and enjoy the winter fishing on the Yellowstone River.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
