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Jaayson Neiuwkirk

Fall Fly Fishing for Cutthroat Trout in Yellowstone National Park

Fall in Yellowstone National Park is a magical time for fly fishing, especially if you're targeting the native cutthroat trout. The cooling temperatures, fewer crowds, and breathtaking autumn landscapes make it a prime destination for anglers seeking a peaceful yet rewarding experience. Yellowstone's rivers, lakes, and streams teem with healthy populations of cutthroat trout, particularly the Yellowstone and Snake River varieties. As the fish feed aggressively before the winter months, fall is the perfect time to cast a line.



Why Fall is Prime Time for Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout are native to the Yellowstone region, and fall offers ideal conditions for targeting them. As water temperatures cool, these trout become more active, feeding heavily in preparation for the winter. This season is also less pressured, as the summer crowds have thinned, allowing for more tranquil fishing experiences. Additionally, the stunning backdrop of fall foliage, clear waters, and snow-capped peaks creates an unforgettable fly fishing setting.


Key Reasons Fall is Special for Cutthroat Fishing:

  • Active Feeding: Cutthroat trout are hungry in the fall, gorging on aquatic insects, terrestrials, and small fish as they prepare for the cold season.

  • Low Angler Pressure: With fewer visitors in the park, anglers can enjoy more solitude and access to prime fishing spots.

  • Changing Water Conditions: Cooler water temperatures create favorable conditions for fish to be more active throughout the day.


Best Locations for Fall Fly Fishing in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park spans both Wyoming and Montana, and its waters are renowned for world-class trout fishing. When targeting cutthroat trout, several rivers and lakes in the park stand out as prime locations:

  1. Yellowstone River

    • The Yellowstone River is iconic for its native Yellowstone cutthroat trout. The section below Yellowstone Lake is particularly productive in the fall. These waters hold some of the park’s largest cutthroat trout, and fall is a great time to target them as they transition back from their summer spawning season.

    • Fly recommendations: Use streamers like Woolly Buggers or small baitfish imitations to target cutthroats feeding on minnows. Terrestrial patterns such as hoppers or ants can also be effective in the early fall.

  2. Lamar River

    • The Lamar River, located in the northeast corner of the park, offers exceptional fall fishing for cutthroat trout. The river meanders through beautiful valleys, with plenty of deep pools and riffles where cutthroats hold.

    • Fly recommendations: Dry flies like the Parachute Adams and Elk Hair Caddis work well on sunny days, while nymph patterns such as Pheasant Tails or Hare’s Ear are effective in deeper runs.

  3. Slough Creek

    • Slough Creek is famous for its large cutthroat trout and scenic meadows. The lower and upper meadows provide excellent opportunities for sight fishing. Fall offers quieter conditions here, allowing you to patiently cast to rising fish.

    • Fly recommendations: Try small dry flies like the Blue Wing Olive or Midges, especially during cooler parts of the day. During warmer afternoons, terrestrial patterns like beetles and ants can still be effective.

  4. Snake River

    • Flowing through the southern part of the park, the Snake River is home to the Snake River cutthroat trout, known for their aggressive takes and strong fighting spirit. The river features a mix of riffles, runs, and deep pools, making it ideal for various fishing techniques.

    • Fly recommendations: Swinging streamers or soft hackles can be highly productive in the fall. For surface action, large attractor dry flies like the Stimulator can entice cutthroats to strike.

  5. Yellowstone Lake

    • Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America and a great spot for targeting big cutthroat trout in the fall. While the peak fishing season occurs earlier in the year, fall still offers great opportunities for landing large trout as they feed along the lake’s shoreline.

    • Fly recommendations: Use baitfish patterns or leech imitations for subsurface fishing, as cutthroats tend to feed on minnows in the shallows.


Best Flies for Fall Cutthroat Trout

Fall cutthroat trout in Yellowstone are opportunistic feeders. Their diet shifts toward smaller aquatic insects, terrestrials, and baitfish. Having a variety of fly patterns in your box is essential for success.

  • Parachute Adams: A reliable dry fly that mimics a range of mayflies, effective during fall hatches.

  • Blue Wing Olive (BWO): As the weather cools, BWOs become a primary food source, especially in overcast conditions.

  • Hopper Patterns: Terrestrials like grasshoppers remain effective well into early fall. Cast them near the banks to attract aggressive cutthroats.

  • Ants and Beetles: Smaller terrestrial patterns like ants and beetles are great choices for cutthroats still rising for surface meals.

  • Streamers (Woolly Bugger, Sculpin): Larger cutthroats will often chase down streamers, especially in deeper water or during overcast conditions.

  • Nymphs (Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear): When cutthroats are holding deeper in the water column, nymphing with these patterns can be highly effective.


Techniques for Fall Cutthroat Fishing

  • Dry Fly Fishing: Fall hatches, though less frequent, can still provide excellent dry fly fishing opportunities. Target fish feeding on mayflies or midges by casting small dry flies upstream and letting them drift naturally. Pay attention to subtle rises near the surface.

  • Nymphing: Nymphing is highly productive in the fall, especially when the water is cold and fish are feeding below the surface. Use a strike indicator to detect subtle takes and adjust your depth to find where the fish are holding.

  • Streamer Fishing: Swinging or stripping streamers can trigger aggressive strikes from large cutthroat trout. This is particularly effective in deeper pools or along undercut banks. Streamer fishing is a great way to cover water and target larger fish.


Gear Recommendations for Fall Fly Fishing

  1. Rod and Reel: A 5-weight rod is versatile enough for most cutthroat trout fishing in Yellowstone, though a 4-weight may be preferred for more delicate presentations. Ensure your reel has a smooth drag system to handle larger trout.

  2. Waders and Boots: Fall brings cooler temperatures, so insulated and breathable waders are essential for staying comfortable. Pair them with sturdy boots with good traction, as riverbeds can become slippery.

  3. Layers and Rain Gear: The weather in Yellowstone can be unpredictable in the fall. Layering is key, starting with moisture-wicking base layers, followed by insulating mid-layers, and topped with a waterproof jacket to stay dry during rain showers.

  4. Polarized Sunglasses: Spotting fish in Yellowstone's crystal-clear waters is easier with polarized sunglasses, which reduce glare and allow you to see cutthroats holding below the surface.


Conservation and Respect for the Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique and delicate ecosystem, home to some of the last remaining populations of native cutthroat trout. Practicing catch-and-release and handling fish with care ensures that future generations of anglers will enjoy the same experiences. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the park’s fishing regulations, including barbless hook requirements and specific closures, to protect this pristine environment.


Fall fly fishing for cutthroat trout in Yellowstone National Park offers an unparalleled experience of natural beauty, solitude, and world-class angling. Whether you’re casting dry flies to rising fish in a meandering meadow stream or swinging streamers for larger trout in a fast-moving river, fall provides an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Yellowstone's native fish in one of the most spectacular settings on earth.

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