Upper Snake River Facts

Location:

The Snake River is formed high in the wilderness of Yellowstone’s southwest corner.  It flows through some of the most remote and wild country Yellowstone National Park has to offer. 

The Upper Snake River is almost inaccessible, meaning very few people fish this section every year.  If you like wilderness solitude, come fish the Upper Snake River. 

Features:

The Upper Snake River offers Yellowstone Cutthroat trout as well as scattered Snake River Cutthroats.  Brown trout, brook trout and whitefish also inhabit the river.  The Upper Snake runs through some very rugged country. 

Much of its journey through Yellowstone is in a canyon, making the water fast, rough and almost inaccessible.  Fish on the Upper Snake are not picky, the basic caddis and mayfly imitations will do well.  Attractors and terrestrials produce fish also. 

Seasonal Strategies:

The Upper Snake River has a tremendous runoff.  Do not attempt to fish this river until July, as the water is simply to powerful and muddy until then.  The river fishes best starting in early August.  Mayflies and caddis provide topwater action, while Beadhead nymphs and soft hackles will cover the rest. 

Terrestrials and attractors work great in late summer and early fall.  During the fall, large brown trout move into the Upper Snake to spawn.  A large nymph or streamer is your best bet. 

Special Regulations:

Catch and release all cutthroat trout.  Check the Yellowstone fishing regulations for more information regarding the Upper Snake River.

Access:

Access to the Upper Snake River is difficult.  The South Entrance Road follows the river for a short distance, but other than that you have to either hike in or have an outfitter pack you in on horseback. 

Special Cautions:

Grizzly bears are very common in this area, never travel in groups smaller than three in the back country.  Take heed to all the usual precautions when camping in bear country.

Links:

Upper Snake River Blog Entries and Updates

Upper Snake River Flows two miles south of the YNP South Gate

For the most current fly recommendations and hatch information, click on Upper Snake River Blog Entries and Updates