Yellowstone River
Montana · river · approx 45.80, -108.40
Located in Montana, Yellowstone River is classified as a river with approximate coordinates 45.800, -108.400. Wild brown trout. Anglers target Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout here, and the links below open the regulations, stocking, and license details you need for a compliant trip.
About this water
Wild brown trout.
Fishing characteristics
As a river, Yellowstone River is shaped by current, clarity, and flow. Species use seams, eddies, and slack water, and dam releases or rainfall can quickly change where fish hold.
Target species
- Brown Trout — Brown trout are adaptable stream and lake fish that grow large and often feed at low light or night.
- Rainbow Trout — Rainbow trout are adaptable cold-water fish of streams, rivers, and lakes, eager on flies, bait, and lures.
Access notes
River access at Yellowstone River ranges from wade-in banks and bridges to boat ramps; check flow, private-property boundaries, and put-in and take-out points. Confirm current access, any required permits, and local closures with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) before you travel.
Applicable regulations
Montana size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules apply to this water.
View Montana license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Waterbody-specific rules
No special waterbody-specific regulation is on file for Yellowstone River. It is governed by the general Montana fishing regulations (statewide size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules). Always confirm with the state agency before fishing.
View Montana license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Stocking notes
Stocking totals for Montana are pending verification. See the Montana stocking profile →
More public waters in Montana
Plan beyond Yellowstone River. These public waters are also in Montana and fall under the same state rules.
Planning your trip to Yellowstone River
A valid Montana fishing license is generally required to fish public waters — buy it from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) before you go, and check seasonal closures and any gear restrictions for river waters. The links above open the official Montana license, limits, and stocking pages.
When to fish Yellowstone River
Rivers fish best with stable, clear flows; spring runoff and dam releases change conditions fast.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to fish Yellowstone River?
Public waters in Montana generally require a state fishing license for anyone past the minimum age; check Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) for exact rules and any free-fishing days.
What species can I target here?
This water is associated with Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout.