Summer in Yellowstone National Park unveils vivid landscapes and the challenge of balancing recreation with conservation. Starting June 19, 2025, select rivers—the Madison, Firehole, and Gibbon—close daily from 2 p.m. to sunrise to protect native trout, which suffer under warm water temperatures and low flows.

The mercury climbs, pushing water temperatures above 68°F (20°C), turning rivers into treacherous environments for trout. With diminished currents that normally refresh and cool the water, trout face lethal conditions in the afternoon heat. Park managers respond by closing these waters to fishing during the most vulnerable hours, giving fish a chance to recover and avoid exhaustion.

If you’re planning a fishing trip to Yellowstone, you’ll find that fishing in these rivers is allowed before 2 p.m., when water temperatures are cooler and currents more robust. This window encourages anglers to fish responsibly: land fish quickly, minimize handling, and release trout gently back into the river. Such practical guidelines help preserve the delicate aquatic ecosystem while maintaining the thrill of the catch.

Yellowstone Lake and other lakes remain open from sunrise to sunset, offering anglers alternative spots where water temperatures stay more stable. Meanwhile, other rivers and streams not listed continue fishing with standard park rules.

Warm rivers dare anglers to plan smart. Pack early mornings or late evenings for your fishing adventure, and keep a close watch on weather forecasts and water conditions. Always check updates from Yellowstone’s Public Affairs Office, as closures may lift when cooler temperatures return and flows rise.

This seasonal closure is more than a restriction; it’s an invitation to engage with the park’s environment responsibly. When you give rivers the time they need to heal, you ensure that Yellowstone’s wild trout fisheries remain vibrant and fierce, ready for the next angler to test their skill.