Rich’s Yellowstone River Fishing Report – 5/20/26

The Yellowstone is shaping up nicely heading into the weekend, with flows around Livingston currently hovering near 5,800 CFS and expected to gradually rise through the weekend as warmer afternoons continue to push snowmelt into the system. Even with the bump in flows, the river is in better shape than it was a week ago. Water clarity remains colored but very fishable, and fish are clearly taking advantage of the improving visibility. The best action has been coming from softer seams, inside edges, slower buckets, and flooded structure where trout can get out of the heavier current and ambush larger meals. This is still very much a big bug game, so don’t be afraid to fish darker, heavier patterns with some size to them. Olive Jigged Zirdles, Jigged Olive Duracells, and Pat’s Rubber Legs in black, coffee, or dark olive continue to be top producers, along with larger stonefly patterns, worms, and darker streamers. Streamer anglers should focus on slow banks and transition water, especially during the warmest parts of the afternoon when fish are getting more active. Overall, the Yellowstone is trending in the right direction despite runoff conditions, and as clarity continues to improve the fishing should only continue getting better.