Updated October 15, 2026
    Access point

    Carbella Accesson Yellowstone River

    The classic end-point for floats through the upper canyon section.
    Yellowstone River reportDirections45.0714°N, 110.8033°W

    River flow last 30 days

    08001,600Sep 16Sep 22Sep 271,705 cfs
    Flow now
    1,680cfs
    Below the typical range (1,710–1,770 cfs)
    Last 7 days
    Steady
    1,704 to 1,828 cfs
    Bite report · week of Jun 21

    Yellowstone River flow at 6970 cfs

    1. 01Yellowstone River flow at 6970 cfs, water temp 69°F.
    2. 02PMD and white miller caddis hatches daily.
    3. 03Fish can be selective on dries; subsurface patterns are key.
    4. 04Slough Creek (YNP) is the most productive go-to spot currently.
    5. 05Firehole and Madison Rivers fishing well with PMD/caddis activity.

    What to tie on at Carbella Access

    Picked from recent reports for this stretch.

    nymph85%

    Zebra Midge

    #18#20#22#24

    A mandatory winter staple on the Yellowstone. In February, midge larvae are the most abundant food source; fish these in black or red sizes 18-22 behind a heavier nymph.

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    nymph80%

    Tungsten Bead Pat's Rubber Legs

    #4#6#8#10

    While stoneflies aren't hatching, the large nymphs are always present in the substrate. The tungsten version acts as a perfect 'anchor' to get your rig down to the bottom in heavy winter flows.

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    dry80%

    Griffith's Gnat

    #18#20#22#24

    During the warmest part of the day, midges will cluster on the surface. This is your best and often only chance for dry fly action in February.

    streamer80%

    Woolly Bugger (Olive)

    #4#6#8

    A versatile searching pattern that imitates leeches and baitfish, effective for enticing aggressive trout in varying water conditions.

    nymph80%

    Hare's Ear Nymph

    #12#14#16#18

    An essential general searching nymph, mimicking various active mayfly nymphs that are always present in the river.

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    dry80%

    Elk Hair Caddis

    #14#16#18

    A classic imitation for the abundant caddis adults, including 'white miller caddis,' actively hatching now.

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    dry80%

    Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) Comparadun

    #18#20#22#24

    Consistent BWO hatches are expected in early spring, especially on overcast days. This low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.

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    streamer80%

    Black Woolly Bugger

    #4#6#8

    A versatile streamer, effective year-round for predatory fish like trout, imitating leeches and baitfish. It's a high-percentage searching pattern for larger trout in higher flows.

    dry80%

    Mother's Day Caddis

    #14#16#18

    The prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected in late April through May. This dry fly is a perfect imitation for adult caddis.

    Montana season by season

    What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.

    Fly shops nearby

    Local flies, current advice and guided trips.

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