Yellowstone and Missouri trout shift to streamer season

What's biting

What's next

With water at 46°F, expect Brown Trout to stay aggressive on streamers through the afternoon, while the best dry-fly and small-nymph action tends to fall in the warmest part of the day. Flylords Mag notes that drifting streamers, not only stripping them, can move fish that follow without eating. Per Reno Fly Shop (NV), cooler water has trout focused on small bugs such as Blue Winged Olives and midges, a pattern that often carries over to Montana's tailwater-style stretches on overcast days.

Flows look steady, so no sharp change is likely over the next few days. A rain or snow event is the main thing that could add colour and push fish toward the banks, so check conditions before you go.

The First Quarter moon gives decent evening light for low-light streamer fishing. Per MT FWP Fishing News, spawning closures on some rivers began October 1, so confirm current rules for your stretch before heading out.

Context

Mid-October is typically the back half of the fall brown trout run in the northern Rockies. Fish are feeding up and moving toward spawning areas, and flows are usually at or near their seasonal low. Water in the mid-40s is normal for this time of year, and on schedule rather than early or late. Anglers should typically avoid wading over spawning redds and check state regulations before harvesting.