Should you fish the Yellowstone River in February? Sweetwater’s Rich Ridgeway says, “Heck yes!” He got into some nice fish yesterday in the Paradise Valley (check out the colors and kype on that big rainbow) and this is his advice if you’re heading out this warm (and not too windy) weekend:
Fishing on the Yellowstone River is currently in a late-winter pattern, with water temperatures around 41°F and flows near 1,230 CFS, creating manageable, wade-friendly conditions. Recent weather brought cloudy skies with occasional light mist, air temperatures around 47°F, and winds ranging from 4–24 mph with gusts up to 47 mph, making casting challenging at times but providing favorable low-light conditions for trout activity. Fish are holding deep in slower runs and tailouts, with the best action typically occurring midday as water temperatures peak. Nymphing deep and slow remains the most consistent approach, with productive patterns including pheasant tail variations, Prince Nymphs, perdigons, and small stonefly nymphs, while small, dark streamers can also move fish under overcast conditions. Conditions can change quickly this time of year; warmer weather is expected into the weekend and next week, though overnight temperatures may still drop below freezing. If you’re planning to float, make sure your boat and access points are clear of ice before heading out.
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