Yellowstone Park, October 3rd, 2023

Lewis River Channel: Host of an Unmatched Brown Trout Migration

The most numerous brown trout spawning run in this area is beginning between Lewis and Shoshone Lakes. Browns from both lakes concentrate here this time of year in the river just below Shoshone Lake making an impressive presence. Most anglers motor across Lewis Lake, leave their boats at the north end of the lake, then walk up the river to present streamer and large woolly bugger patterns. The aggressive browns present range upwards in size to near 30 inches. However increased bank side angler traffic along the river reduces fish activity by mid day. Thus the most effective way to enjoy this event is to camp at the Shoshone Lake outlet campground and fish early in the day before anglers arrive from boating to the river, then return to the river during evening after boating anglers have departed. Before doing this adventure it is wise to determine weather conditions as unsettled weather is frequent this time of year in Yellowstone Park. With thorough planning, this visit to enjoy numerous large brown trout can be unforgettable.