07/16/2026
Yellowstone National Park River/Fishing Closures
As of July 16, 2026
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, Wyo. – Beginning today, temporary full closures to fishing on the Firehole and Madison rivers and their tributaries are in effect. The Gibbon River and all associated tributaries downstream of Norris Campground are also temporarily closed to fishing.
In recent days, peak water temperatures have ranged from 80 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Coupled with high air temperatures, these conditions are lethal to trout, and there have been reports of dead fish in the Firehole River. The closures will protect the park’s native and wild trout fisheries and will remain in effect until conditions improve.
The weather forecast for the coming week calls for slightly cooler temperatures and isolated thunderstorms. Staff will continue to monitor the water temperatures, and the closures may be lifted, or additional restrictions and closures may be put in place, depending on condition assessments. Currently, there are no restrictions on fishing other park lakes, rivers and streams due to high water temperatures and low river flows.
What remains open to fishing?
• Yellowstone Lake and other lakes will remain open to fishing from sunrise to sunset as specified in the 2026 Fishing Regulations booklet.
• All other rivers and streams not listed as closed.
As of now, the open rivers in Yellowstone are still fishing great, as is the Upper Madison River in Montana.
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