It is the middle of summer after what was a historically cool and dry winter. The inevitable is here, and we face warm temperatures and hoot owl restrictions across the Yellowstone Region fisheries. We were incredibly lucky to have a wet June and epic fishing for most of spring and early summer. Now that things have changed, I share my thoughts on water temperatures and offer a positive outlook on current fishing conditions. I hope you’ve enjoyed the great fishing we have had so far this year.
Water Temperatures
First, let’s talk about water temperatures and the importance of tracking them regardless of time of year.
I believe it is in the best interest of all dedicated anglers to understand water temperatures and how they affect the fishing. Keeping up on water temperatures year-round will make you a better angler. It will give you insights into when hatches occur, how weather patterns affect water temperatures, and at what water temperatures fishing is best. All this is beneficial knowledge to an angler, no matter the time of year.
If you track water temperatures, you will find that trout fishing is not good when water temperatures exceed 68 degrees. And I believe one would come to this conclusion without knowing the research on how warm water temperatures affect trout. If you have fished during these conditions, you know that the fishing is slow during these heat spells. These negative experiences would begin to stack up, and you would avoid rivers with warm water temperatures because of the poor fishing.
Add in the increased risk of fish mortality, and it is a no-brainer that trout anglers should avoid fishing in warm water.
Plenty Of Fishing Options Remain
Due to warm water temperatures, I avoid many fisheries during the summer season. There are a variety of rivers that fish poorly for the few hottest weeks of the year. But never have I tossed in the towel and put the rods away for the hot summer. We still have many fishing options for trout and other species so that you can enjoy a day on the water.
From the small tributary streams to the high alpine lakes, there is plenty of cold water, hatches, and happy fish to chase. These fisheries are in their prime, and this is the only window we have to access and fish them each year. They may not hold the biggest trout, be the easiest to get to, or be close to home, but there is plenty of trout fishing and epic experiences to be found.
Now it’s always important to check water temperatures, no matter where you fish. Any fishery is subject to drought conditions no matter the elevation. But do not let the hot summer heat take away from your fishing experiences. Yes, the famous streams that are heavily floated and guided may be tough, but there is plenty more to explore above and beyond these fisheries. Adapt, research, and put in the effort to find cold water and enjoy this time of year.
As always, thanks for reading The Curious Angler. Get out there and take advantage of the summer season.
Nick
