Yellowstone Park, July 20th, 2024

Nez Perce Ford

Fishing restrictions apply on all the Madison River drainage streams, but others are in good conditions for fishing, Currently the Yellowstone River above the falls features green drake and PMD hatches with some wind blown giant stone flies. Water from deep, cool Yellowstone Lake keeps the river here in good shape for Yellowstone Cutthroat survival. It is similar to being a tail water fishery, but it is a natural phenomena. Northeast corner streams ( Lamar River, Slough, Soda Butte Creeks) feature PMD, sally and a few golden stone hatches with hoppers and other terrestrial insects coming on. All this makes for great top water conditions. However because these are roadside, they become somewhat crowded during daytime hours. Walking upstream on both the Lamar River and Slough Creek to fish can offer relief from other enthusiasts. Fall River Basin streams are approaching base level flows. Mayfly numbers are declining here, but terrestrial insect populations are building.