Yellowstone River and Spring Creeks Fishing Report 11.30.25
Posted by Angela Montana on December 1, 2025
Just when we thought fall was on its last legs, the Paradise Valley has reminded us it’s not done showing off. Between warm spells, moody cloud cover, and a river system that refuses to sleep, late-season anglers have been treated to a stretch of fishing that feels more like a bonus round than the prelude to winter. Big fish, small fish, nymph eaters, streamer chasers—everyone seems to be awake and willing. And with another bump in temps on the way, there’s still time to sneak in a few more days of prime action before winter finally gets the last word. Note that this fishing report is a collaboration between Sweetwater guys Jan Axtell, Rich Ridgeway, and Dan the Boss Man. Check out the full report below by Sweetwater Fly Shop:
The Paradise Valley continues to produce great fall and early winter fishing. Prior to this weekend’s cold snap, warmer than average temperatures over the last few weeks and overcast days have made conditions on the Yellowstone River, Gardner River, and Paradise Valley Spring creeks very fishable with regular reports of large (and small) fish being taken on nymphs and streamers throughout the day. Warming weather this week should keep things going for at least a bit. Get out before the fishing slows down!
Nymphing has been good on the Yellowstone River this past week. Not seeing anything for emerging bugs, just some small midges about mid-day. You definitely don’t have to be the early one out there. That noon-2:30 area has been the strongest bite. Keeping it old school has worked well most of time: size 10,12 Prince nymph and a 10-12 Pheasant Tail. Don’t be afraid to try a variant in those like the Psycho Prince. Pats Rubber Legs is also another good one to throw in there. Start off deep with a little weight and work your way up and target the slower pockets and structure.
The streamer bite on the Yellowstone river has been good, if not lights out. Anglers are taking nice fish on a variety of articulated and single-hook streamers, especially on deep inside bends of the river and in the tail-outs. The biggest fish have attacked in the slower, deeper water. White, pale and bright yellow, olive, and black streamers have all caught fish recently, and don’t hesitate to change colors if the trout don’t seem interested in your offering.
There are still surface feeding fish on the local spring creeks, most notably to size 22 baetis hatching after 11:00am. Some midges are hatching throughout the day as well. As we progress into December and the Baetis hatches peter out, midge larvae will becoming increasingly important.
Note on personal safety: whether you’re walking and wading or floating the Yellowstone, the Gardner, or the Paradise Valley Spring Creeks, please be aware of the effect of air and water temps during late fall and winter fishing. The risk of hypothermia is increased be prepared for changing weather conditions throughout the day, and have a plan.
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