This is Artificial Lure, your local fishing and angling expert, bringing you today's Yellowstone River report for September 12, 2025.
Sunrise hit at 6:56am this morning, and we’ll see sunset around 7:39pm—so a solid window for those early and late sessions, which is exactly when the fishing’s firing right now. Weather in the region today’s got that classic September swing: mostly sunny for the morning, but don’t be surprised if you encounter scattered afternoon showers and isolated thunderstorms. Highs are in the lower 60s, with a gentle breeze that might build a bit toward the afternoon. Overnight lows drop into the upper 30s. According to the National Weather Service and local KBZK, we’re looking at fair but unpredictable conditions—keep an eye on the western sky for those pop-up storms.
Tides don’t directly affect us this far inland, so river flows and temps are what matter. The Yellowstone is running low, but water temps are comfortable—cold enough for the trout to move and keep feeding well into the day. Mornings are still king, as cooler nights help stretch out that prime window, but expect the fish to push hard into faster, more oxygenated water as afternoon warmth sets in.
Fish activity this week has been good for those willing to put in the legwork. Montana Angler reports that hoppers are leading the dry fly action—big #8-12 Heneberry and Thunder Thighs Hoppers on fast banks and riffles are the ticket. If the trout won’t commit, try downsizing to beetles or flying ants. We’re still seeing morning tricos and some evening caddis, while a few drakes have shown up in the National Park section. On overcast days, don’t be shy about running streamers through deeper pools and shaded runs—that early or late low light really gets those browns moving after big meals.
Anglers putting in miles have been rewarded with solid wild trout catches—browns, rainbows, and the odd large cutthroat, especially nearer Gardiner and above Livingston. Summer saw exceptional numbers of quality fish, and while things are slowing a bit, persistence pays off: check out recent Montana Angler guide photos for proof of hefty browns landed all summer. Recent catches are averaging 12–18 inches, with some standout fish over 20 coming to big bugs or streamers.
Best lures and flies for today:
- **Dry flies:** Heneberry Hopper #8-12, Thunder Thighs Hopper #8-12, beetle and flying ant patterns.
- **Nymphs:** Pat’s Rubberlegs #8-12, Mega Prince #10-12, FKA Prince #12-16, small bead head caddis imitations.
- **Streamers:** Sculpin patterns or flashy streamers during low light or just after storms.
If you want bait—and you’re on a section where it’s allowed—earthworms drifted behind rocks in turbulent riffles will move fish, especially after a little rain colors up the water. But honestly, this time of year, terrestrials on the surface are tough to beat.
For hotspots, target:
- The stretch between Emigrant and Pine Creek: classic riffle and bank fishing, with access and room to move.
- Above Gardiner into the Park boundary: pressured, but big wild browns are here, especially if you’re out at dawn or into dusk.
The Yellowstone’s tributaries—Lamar, Soda Butte, and Slough Creek—continue to fish better than the main stem for numbers due to cooler water and higher fish counts. If you want more solitude, hike a little into those side valleys for eager cutthroat and less pressured runs.
Thanks for tuning in to your Yellowstone River rundown with Artificial Lure. Make sure to subscribe for up-to-date fishing news, tips and stories from the water.
This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
Great deals on fishing gear https://amzn.to/44gt1Pn
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
