The Yellowstone River will re-open to all day fishing starting at noon on Saturday, Aug. 19. The 105-mile stretch of river from Big Timber to Huntley has been closed to fishing between noon and midnight since July 28 because of high water temperatures.

“We are starting to see longer and significantly cooler evenings lately that have lowered water temperatures to an acceptable level for all-day fishing. Even though we are expecting a few more hot days, the evenings are predicted to remain cool, which is a critical element in keeping the water temperatures down,” said Jim Darling, Regional Fisheries Manager with FWP.

FWP closes streams to fishing when low water conditions or high water temperatures, combined with fishing pressure and competition for space and food, would lead to an unacceptable level of stress on fish. When fish seek refuge in pools, where the water is deeper and cooler, they are more vulnerable to anglers and predators. Fish also can die from the higher water temperatures, lower oxygen levels and reduced resistance to disease.

Montana’s streams and rivers contain wild trout that replenish their populations through natural spawning. It is critical that sufficient numbers of spawning-age trout are conserved to repopulate the fishery when conditions improve.

“We appreciate the cooperation we received from many anglers in making a short-term sacrifice to ensure the Yellowstone River fish population remains healthy for the long term,” Darling said.

For details on all emergency angling restrictions and other drought updates, visit fwp.mt.gov and click on Drought & Fire Updates. Information can also be obtained by calling FWP’s Region 5 office in Billings at (406) 247-2940.