As of January 18, 2025, the Yellowstone River in Montana is experiencing its winter slowness, with cold weather dominating the forecast. The river has been slushy until around noon, making early morning fishing challenging.
### Weather and River Conditions
The current weather is cold, with temperatures in the mid-teens to low twenties Fahrenheit. Sunrise was at around 8:00 AM, and sunset is expected at about 4:30 PM. The river levels are low, and the water is clear, but the cold temperatures have slowed down fish activity.
### Fish Activity
Fish activity is subdued due to the cold weather. However, for those willing to brave the conditions, there are still opportunities to catch trout. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a few rainbow and brown trout, mostly in the deeper pools and slower sections of the river.
### Best Lures and Bait
Given the cold water, nymphing is the most productive method. Use beadhead nymphs such as Hare's Ear, Pheasant Tail, or small midge patterns fished 15-24 inches below a highly visible dry fly. For those who prefer dry fly fishing, small midges and Blue Wing Olives can still attract some rises, although the action is slower.
### Hot Spots
One of the best sections to fish right now is from Gardiner to Yankee Jim Canyon. This stretch is loaded with pocket water and sizable rapids, making it ideal for dry fly fishing when the weather warms up slightly. Another hot spot is the "Town Stretch" from Mallard's Rest to the 89 bridge near Livingston, known for its high concentrations of rainbow trout and large browns. Be cautious, as this section has multiple channels, eddies, and riffles that can be challenging for inexperienced boaters.
### Additional Notes
It's crucial to be aware of the potential presence of non-native species like smallmouth bass, which have been spotted in nearby rivers and could threaten the native trout populations. If you catch any non-native fish, please kill and report them to the authorities.
Overall, while the fishing is slower due to the cold weather, the Yellowstone River still offers some of the best trout fishing in the country, and with the right gear and knowledge, you can still have a successful day on the water.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
