As of November 15, 2024, the Yellowstone River in Montana is offering some excellent late-fall fishing opportunities, despite the chilly weather.

### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 45°F and a low of 28°F. Sunrise is at 7:17 AM, and sunset will be at 4:34 PM. Be prepared for potential wind, especially in the Paradise Valley area.

### Water Conditions
Streamflows on the Yellowstone River are currently well below average, making it easier to locate trout. The water temperatures have plummeted, moving trout into the slow, deep runs and pockets, typically 4-6 feet deep with some current[5].

### Fish Activity
Trout activity is picking up with the cooler temperatures. Nymphing and streamer fishing are the most effective techniques right now. Trout are actively feeding on stoneflies, worms, eggs, prince nymphs, and various generalist nymph patterns. Blue-winged olive hatches are still present, especially on mild, overcast days, making dry fly fishing viable in the early afternoons[3][4].

### Best Lures and Bait
For nymphing, use tandem rigs with beadhead Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and Rubber Legs. Egg patterns, especially those with pink or orange beads, are also productive. Streamer fishing is heating up, with articulated sculpin imitations like Sculpzillas, Skiddish Smolts, and Zonkers working well. On bright days, fish streamers under an indicator for better results[1][5].

### Hot Spots
One of the best areas to fish is below Livingston, where the river offers a mix of deep holes and undercut banks ideal for streamer fishing. Another hot spot is the section near Big Timber, where the slower runs and deeper pockets are holding a good number of trout[3][5].

### Recent Catches
Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of brown and rainbow trout, with some larger browns taken on streamers and smaller trout on nymphs and dry flies. The dry fly bite has been hit or miss, but those who timed it right with the Blue-winged olive hatches had some success.

Overall, November is a great time to fish the Yellowstone River, with fewer anglers on the water and productive fishing conditions. Just be prepared for the cold and potential wind.