What are the Best Places to Fish in Yellowstone in May?
If you’re visiting Yellowstone in May, you’re actually hitting one of the most underrated windows of the season. Fewer crowds, strong early hatches, and thermally influenced rivers make for excellent fishing—if you know where to go.
At Yellowstone River Outfitters, our experienced Yellowstone fishing guides specialize in helping anglers make the most of these prime spring conditions.
Firehole River
Gibbon River smiles!
Inside Yellowstone National Park
1) Firehole/Madison River
Best overall May walk-wade option
Open and fishable all of May
Thermally influenced (warmer water = more active fish early season)
Mostly Brown & Rainbow Trout
Flat, easy wading
Excellent Mayfly and Caddis hatches
Swinging wet flies can be very productive
Road parallels much of the river (easy access)
* The Firehole is often our top recommendation for early-season walk-wade trips with our Yellowstone fly fishing guides thanks to consistent hatches and forgiving wading conditions.
2) Gibbon River (Lower Sections)
Great mix of water types
Fishable all of May
Thermally influenced
Waterfalls create fish barriers (different species above/below)
Mostly Brown Trout, with Rainbow, Brook, and Westslope Cutthroat possible
Meadow stretches + canyon/rocky sections
Caddis, Mayfly, and Stonefly hatches
Dry-dropper rigs work well
Expect some hiking
*Ideal for anglers who enjoy variety and covering water with knowledgeable Yellowstone fishing guides who know where fish stack up in spring.
3) Gardner River (Below Osprey Falls)
Excellent early May option before runoff
Thermally influenced lower sections (Mammoth downstream)
Brown, Rainbow, Yellowstone Cutthroat, Brook Trout & Mountain Whitefish
More technical wading (rocky banks & pocket water)
Excellent dry/dropper and nymph fishing
Short drive from Gardiner, MT
* Perfect for anglers who enjoy pocket water and a slightly more adventurous walk-wade experience.
If you prefer fishing from a boat, May can be outstanding—especially early in the month before heavy runoff.
4) Yellowstone River
Early May = Mother’s Day Caddis
Prime early May float option
Annual Mother’s Day Caddis hatch
Fewer anglers than summer
Conditions can change quickly with runoff
*Floating this iconic river with Yellowstone River Outfitters gives anglers a chance at exciting dry fly action during one of Montana’s best spring hatches.
5) Secluded Private Lakes (Paradise Valley)
Stable spring conditions
Not affected by runoff
Great for targeting larger fish
Relaxed, scenic experience
Good for families and all experience levels
Additional private access fee applies
*A fantastic alternative when rivers are high—especially for families or beginner anglers working with Yellowstone fly fishing guides.
6) Madison River (Lower Madison)
Less impacted by runoff than the Yellowstone
Solid mid-to-late May float option
Typically meet guides in Bozeman, MT
7) Missouri River (“The Mighty Mo”)
Best overall Montana float fishing in May
Dam-regulated flows = consistent conditions
Outstanding spring fishing
Meet guides in Craig, MT (near Helena)
Worth fishing multiple days
*While farther from Yellowstone, it’s one of the most reliable spring fisheries in the state.
May Fishing Strategy Tips
Focus on thermally influenced rivers early in the month
Monitor snowpack and runoff closely
Be flexible with location choices
Carry Caddis and BWO patterns
Have dry-dropper and wet fly setups ready
Plan Your May Trip
May rewards flexibility—and local knowledge makes all the difference. The Firehole, Gibbon, and Gardner Rivers are prime in-park walk-wade options, while floating rivers or private lakes offer great alternatives depending on conditions.
If you’re planning a trip this spring, Yellowstone River Outfitters and our professional Yellowstone fly fishing guides are happy to help you choose the best option for your dates, skill level, and goals.
Tight lines!
Yellowstone River Outfitters
Private Lake Bow!
