2026 Fishing Season Forecast
Posted on April 11th, 2026 in Season Forecasts, Weather & Water Conditions
Introduction: We’re Heading for Serious Drought
We got a below-average amount of snow this winter, winter was record-warm, the snow started melting six weeks early, and the summer outlooks are calling for hot and dry conditions. Those are the facts we’re dealing with this year. Here’s how it will impact the fishing.
First, some photos, since they’re worth a thousand words.
In this first one, the core of our operations area is that 79% basin in southern Montana. Portions of our operations area extend into that 66% basin and the 84% to the northwest. As you can see, we’re low, but still better off than anywhere else in the West. Colorado, Utah, and Oregon are in absolutely dire straits.
2026 Yellowstone Area Streamflow and Fishing Predictions
Posted on February 22nd, 2026 in Season Forecasts, Weather & Water Conditions
Introduction
Winter snowpack and how this snowpack melts from April through mid-June are the most important factors in determining summer water levels and fishing conditions. They’re also important factors in “quality of life” aspects of summer fishing, such as how much wildfire smoke can be expected in late summer.
This is our post about snowpack and expected conditions for the 2026 season. This post will be updated every couple of weeks as conditions change, until roughly June 5 to June 15, when we expect all area fisheries to be finished with the spring melt and ready to go for the summer season. The most recent revision date is given below.
Updated on March 22, 2026
There are substantial changes in this update due to the recent spell of record heat as well as a forecast calling for more above-normal temperatures.
Westwide snowpack as of March 21, with YCFF operations area circled.
2025 Holiday Sale: Three Full-Day Guide Trips for $1900
Posted on November 26th, 2025 in Sales
That’s right! Save roughly $200 off our standard 2026 rates by booking your three-day guided fly fishing package before the end of the year. Makes a great Christmas gift. We won’t tell if you buy it for yourself…
Offer valid for three consecutive full-day trips for trips anytime during the 2026 season, for one or two guests. Get in touch to book.