Fishing closed in much of Yellowstone National Park

In yet another instance of high temperatures messing up our recreational opportunities — and, far more importantly, our world in general, Yellowstone National Park has now closed many of its streams to fishing due to warm water temperatures and low river flows. This closure will protect the park’s native and wild trout fisheries and remain in effect until conditions improve.

What will be closed?

• The Madison River and all associated tributaries.
• The Firehole River and all associated tributaries.
• The Gibbon River and all associated tributaries downstream of Norris Campground.

The closure will be reassessed when water temperatures cool and flows return to more typical summer conditions. Park staff will continue to monitor park rivers and streams for warm temperatures and low flows, and watch weather forecasts.

The extended forecast calls for continued hot and dry conditions with a slight chance of isolated afternoon thunderstorms, which contribute to continued low stream flows and warm-water temperatures.

Additional closures or restrictions may be implemented if necessary.

Yellowstone Lake still open

Yellowstone Lake and other lakes will remain open to fishing from sunrise to sunset as specified in the Fishing Regulations 2024 booklet. All other rivers and streams not listed are closed.

Water temperatures have exceeded 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) in recent days and flows on many rivers, streams and creeks are low. These conditions are extremely stressful to fish and can be fatal.

Anglers are advised that when fishing in areas still open to do so during the coolest times of day and to land fish quickly, not playing hooked trout to exhaustion. Gently handle fish in the water as much as possible and let them recover before release.

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