Yellowstone Fishing Season Opens May 27, 2023!

The Upper Gibbon River

there are only 2 more days until Opening Day of Fishing in Yellowstone National Park! We are very excited to start another fishing season on May 27, 2023. The anticipation is almost over. we will be posting a fishing report after memorial DAy when we have scouted and taken some opening weekend trips. WE anticipate this year to be another truly amazing fishing season. Before you go fishing in the Park, remember to read and review the park regulations and get your fishing license. Please read the below information from recreation.gov. (https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/08486201-71ff-11eb-90d3-9eb840e09acc)

“Fishing has been a popular recreation activity in Yellowstone National Park for more than 100 years, and many people visit the park just to fish. With over 2500 miles of rivers and streams, as well as numerous lakes, Yellowstone waters present an excellent opportunity for the recreational angler.

Fishing regulations in Yellowstone National Park are structured to strongly support native fish conservation goals. Cutthroat trout are the sole, native trout of the park and were the dominant fish species here prior to Euroamerican settlement. Cutthroat trout, Arctic grayling, mountain whitefish, and other native fishes are important to the ecology of Yellowstone


Stay Safe and Legal: You are responsible for following all park regulations. Consult Yellowstone's park newspaper or rangers at visitor centers and backcountry offices to learn more. 

Lower Gibbon River

General Regulations:

  • The season begins May 27, 2023 and extends through October 31, 2023.

  • Anglers 16 years of age or older must be in possession of a valid Yellowstone National Park fishing pass to fish in the park. State fishing licenses are not valid and are not required.

  • More region-specific regulations can be found in the parks Fish Regulations PDF . Please inquire locally at the park for a printed copy of these regulations.

  • Anglers 15 years of age or younger may fish free of charge if accompanying adult has a valid fishing permit or a separate fee-free fishing permit is available in person. Accompanying adult is responsible for the child's actions and must ensure the child complies with all fishing regulations and provisions. 

  • Each angler may use only one rod at a time and only lead-free artificial lures (eg. spoons or spinners) or flies may be used.

  • Leaded fishing tackle such as leaded split-shot sinkers and soft-weighted ribbon for nymph fishing are not allowed.

  • Hooks must have points that are barbless and only one hook per lure with single, double or triple points.

  • Flies may have only one hook and up to 2 flies may be used per leader.

  • Except for feathers and other typical fly-tying materials, the hook must be bare. No organic or inorganic baits are allowed.

  • Felt-soled footgear is prohibited, which includes footgear with absorbent felt or other fibrous material on the soles.

  • All native fish are catch and release (Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, Mountain Whitefish, and Arctic Grayling)

  • Please review park conditions prior to your trip to ensure there are no closures. 

The Firehole!

Firehole River Bliss

Options

SEASON-LONG FISHING PASSThis pass is valid for recreational fishing at Yellowstone National Park and permits the passholder to fish Yellowstone waters from Saturday May 27, 2023 through October 31, 2023.Duration: SeasonalPrice: $75

7-DAY FISHING PASSThis permit is valid for recreational fishing at Yellowstone National Park and permits the passholder to fish Yellowstone waters for 7 (seven) days from the start date of the permit.Duration: 7 DaysPrice: $55

3-DAY FISHING PASSThis permit is valid for recreational fishing at Yellowstone National Park and permits the passholder to fish Yellowstone waters for 3 (three) days from the start date.Duration: 3 DaysPrice: $40”

https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/fishing.htm

We love taking anglers of all ages and experience levels!

We are excited to see you in Montana! give us a call with any fishing questions or to book your Yellowstone PArk Adventure!

Tight Lines,

Yellowstone River Outfitters

Brogan Ballard