Clark's Fork Yellowstone River Fishing
Private Trip
River Fishing
Wyoming's only Wild and Scenic River features stunning mountain sceneryTarget rainbow, brown, cutthroat trout plus exceptional whitefish fishingIntimate 2guest capacity trips on freestone waters near Cody
Picture yourself casting into Wyoming's only designated Wild and Scenic River, surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Beartooth Mountains. The Clark's Fork offers something special - a freestone river experience that combines stunning mountain scenery with diverse fishing opportunities. Located just 30 miles north of Cody, this top-rated fishing destination delivers consistent action for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, plus what might be the planet's best mountain whitefish fishery. While the average fish runs smaller than some of Wyoming's famous tailwaters, don't let that fool you - we still pull monsters from these waters every season.
The Clark's Fork flows crystal clear from the high country, creating that classic freestone environment that separates the real anglers from the weekend warriors. You'll be fishing pocket water, deep pools, and classic rifle runs where trout stack up to feed. The scenery alone is worth the trip - towering granite cliffs, dense pine forests, and alpine meadows that make every cast feel like a postcard moment. We keep our groups small at just two anglers per guide, so you get personalized attention and plenty of water to work. Lunch is included, and trust me, there's nothing quite like a streamside meal after a morning of solid fishing. The river character changes throughout the day as different hatches come off, keeping both the fish and anglers on their toes.
Freestone fishing requires a different approach than tailwater techniques. We're talking about reading fast water, identifying feeding lanes, and adapting to changing conditions. Dry fly fishing shines during the warmer months when caddis, mayflies, and terrestrials get the fish looking up. Nymph rigs work year-round, especially in the deeper pools and undercut banks where bigger fish hold. The Clark's Fork responds well to attractor patterns - think Royal Wulffs, Stimulators, and Elk Hair Caddis that can handle the choppy water and grab attention. We'll also run streamers through the deeper holes, particularly during overcast conditions or early morning when the browns are prowling. The key here is versatility - this river rewards anglers who can switch tactics as conditions change throughout the day.
Rainbow trout are the bread and butter of the Clark's Fork, averaging 12-16 inches with plenty of fight in the strong current. These fish are opportunistic feeders that respond to both dry flies and nymphs, making them perfect for anglers of all skill levels. They're most active during the warmer months from June through September, with peak activity during morning and evening hours. What makes rainbows here special is their wild nature - these aren't hatchery fish, they're stream-bred fighters with attitude.
Brown trout bring the mystery and challenge that keeps guides coming back year after year. These wary predators average 14-18 inches but can push well into the 20+ range, especially the fall spawners. Browns love structure - undercut banks, logjams, and deep pools where they ambush prey. Early morning and late evening are prime times, particularly during September and October when they're most aggressive. Landing a wild Clark's Fork brown is a badge of honor among serious trout anglers.
Cutthroat trout add that authentic Rocky Mountain flavor to your fishing experience. These native beauties range from 10-16 inches and are absolutely gorgeous with their distinctive red slashes. Cutthroats are more willing to take dry flies than their brown trout cousins, making them a customer favorite for visual fishing. Peak season runs from July through early September when they're feeding heavily on terrestrials and aquatic insects. Their willingness to fight and jump makes every hookup exciting.
Mountain whitefish might be the Clark's Fork's best-kept secret. This river produces whitefish like nowhere else on earth, with fish averaging 12-18 inches and some reaching 20+ inches. While they might not jump like trout, these native fish are incredible fighters in strong current. They're active year-round but peak during fall and winter months. Many anglers overlook whitefish, but once you feel that deep, throbbing fight in heavy water, you'll understand why guides get excited about them.
Brook trout round out the roster with their stunning colors and aggressive strikes. These char typically run smaller at 8-12 inches, but what they lack in size they make up for in beauty and willingness to take flies. Brooks prefer the cooler, higher elevation sections of the river and are most active during summer months. Finding brook trout mixed in with rainbows and cutthroats makes for a true grand slam day that few rivers can offer.
The Clark's Fork Yellowstone delivers that authentic freestone fishing experience that's getting harder to find these days. With five different trout and char species, world-class whitefish fishing, and scenery that rivals any postcard, this trip offers real value for serious anglers. Whether you're after that trophy brown, want to experience diverse species fishing, or simply need to get away from crowded waters, the Clark's Fork has what you're looking for. Our small group size ensures quality instruction and plenty of fishing time, while the included streamside lunch lets you soak in the Wild and Scenic surroundings. Don't wait - prime dates fill up fast, especially during peak season. Contact Wyoming Trout Guides today and secure your spot on one of the region's most renowned fishing destinations.
Float Wyoming's only Wild and Scenic River in the AIRE Super Puma – a 13-footer that handles like a sports car on water. This narrow, fast raft with fishing frame gives you the perfect platform to work the Clark's Fork's prime waters for rainbows, browns, cutthroat, and legendary whitefish. Built for two anglers, the Super Puma's grippy design lets you navigate tight spots and hold your line in current while you cast to rising trout. The freestone waters flowing from the Beartooth mountains offer smaller average fish but don't be fooled – monsters still come to net each season. With room for your gear and easy casting angles, this raft turns a float trip into a proper fishing machine on some of the most scenic water you'll find anywhere.
Salvelinus FontinalisBrookies in our high country tributaries are small but gorgeous - usually 6-10 inches with those bright orange fins and colorful spots. They stick to the coldest, cleanest water in small pockets and beaver ponds. Late spring through early fall is your window before the water gets too cold. These fish are pure wilderness fishing - you'll hike for them, but the scenery and solitude make it worthwhile. They're aggressive and will hit almost anything that looks like food. Keep your presentation simple with small dry flies or basic nymphs, and approach quietly since the water's usually shallow where you'll find them.
Tylosurus AcusBrowns are the wary ones here on the Clark's Fork - usually running 10-18 inches but occasionally pushing 20-plus. They prefer the deeper holes and undercut banks, staying hidden during bright daylight. Fall is prime time when they get aggressive before spawning. These fish are smart and spooky, which makes landing one really satisfying. They fight hard with bulldogging runs rather than jumps. The golden-brown coloring with dark spots makes them beautiful fish, and they eat great too. My advice: use smaller flies than you think and approach from downstream - they spook easily when they see you coming from above.
Oncorhynchus ClarkiiCutthroats here show that distinctive red slash under the jaw and average 10-15 inches. They hang out in the cleaner, well-oxygenated runs and aren't as spooky as browns. Spring and early summer are best when insect hatches are strong. These native fish are willing biters and fun to catch on dry flies when they're rising. They're also excellent table fare with firm, flavorful meat. Cutthroats respond well to traditional patterns - elk hair caddis and prince nymphs work great. Pro tip: look for them in the foam lines and eddies where bugs collect, especially during evening hatches.
Prosopium WilliamsoniDon't overlook the whitefish on the Clark's Fork - this might be the best whitefish water anywhere. They average 10-14 inches and school up in the deeper runs and pools. Winter is peak season when they're most active and aggressive. They've got small mouths, so downsize your flies to 14-16. While some folks call them "trash fish," they're actually great eating when smoked or pickled, and they put up a decent scrap on light tackle. The key is getting your nymph right on the bottom - they feed down low on aquatic insects. Use plenty of weight and dead-drift your fly along the gravel.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbows on the Clark's Fork typically run 12-16 inches, with their signature pink stripe making them easy to spot. They love the faster water and rocky runs, especially where the current breaks around boulders. These fish are active feeders from spring through fall, but early morning and evening produce the best action. What makes them special is their fight - they'll jump and make strong runs that test your gear. The meat is excellent too, with that classic trout flavor. Here's a local tip: when the water's low in late summer, focus on the deeper pools below the riffles where they stack up to stay cool.
Cody