As of September 23, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is gearing up for an exciting day of fishing, despite some challenging weather conditions.

**Current Weather Conditions:**
The area is still feeling the effects of recent cold and rainy weather, which has finally ushered in the fall season. Temperatures are cool, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit, with a gentle breeze of about 5-10 mph. While the rain has subsided, the river is still recovering from the recent downpour.

**Water Conditions:**
The Yellowstone River is currently muddy due to the heavy rain, particularly from the Lamar and Gardiner tributaries. As of September 22, the mud plug was at Carbella, and it is expected that the river will remain murky until late Saturday afternoon when it should start to clear. Streamflows are below average, making it easier to locate trout in deeper waters next to shallow areas, off riffles, shelves, and banks. Water temperatures are stable between 57-65 degrees Fahrenheit.

**Best Fishing Spots:**
Given the current conditions, the best spots to fish will be in areas where the water is starting to clear and has some consistent current. Look for trout in water that is 4-6 feet deep, particularly near structures like riffles, shelves, and banks. These areas provide the necessary flow and food sources that trout are seeking.

**Bait and Tackle Recommendations:**
For this time of year, especially with the fall baetis hatch, dry fly fishing can be very productive. Focus on Blue Winged-Olives, as they are the most active during late morning to early afternoon. For those preferring nymphs, tandem nymph rigs are still effective, though not as thrilling as streamer fishing. Big brown trout are actively chasing streamers, so dead drifting them slowly in medium to slow and deeper waters can yield impressive results.

**Fish Activity:**
Brown trout are preparing for their fall spawn, making them more aggressive and less cautious. This is an excellent time to cast large streamers on cloudy days, which can lead to heart-stopping strikes from trophy-sized fish. Rainbows are also active, particularly during the fall baetis hatch, where they can be seen sipping small mayflies out of current seams and eddies.

**Local Tips and Events:**
Local anglers recommend being patient and adaptable, as the river's clarity changes. With fewer anglers on the water, this is a great time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Yellowstone River, lined with yellow-leaved cottonwoods and the surrounding mountains dusted with early snow.

**Regulations and Restrictions:**
Always check the local fishing regulations for catch limits and any potential closures. Currently, there are no specific closures, but it's essential to respect the river's recovery from the recent rain.

**Best Times for Fishing Today:**
The ideal time for dry fly fishing will be from around 10 AM to late afternoon when the Blue Winged-Olives are most active. For streamer fishing, cloudy fall days are perfect, especially during the late morning and early afternoon.

With the right tackle, patience, and knowledge of the river's conditions, today promises to be an exciting day on the Yellowstone River. Enjoy the fall beauty and the thrill of reeling in those trophy fish