River Flow: 3,390cfs at Umtanum
Water Temp: Temps - 66 - 72F
Trending: Fairly Stable. Water will remain high for summer to aid in lower river irrigation.
Water Clarity: 36"+ Vis
Hatches Upcoming and Current:
Yakima River Fishing Report – Get Up, Get Out, Get Bent
We’re running Hoot Owl hours on the Yakima right now—guides are off the water between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., give or take depending on the daily forecast and water temps. It’s a moving target, but we do this voluntarily to protect our trout and keep the good vibes (and epic fishing) going strong. We've had one of the best seasons in recent memory—why wreck a good thing by stressing fish in warm water? Early bird gets the trout, so plan for a 6 a.m. launch, enjoy that cool water and soft light, and be off the river before the sun cooks your waders dry.
The fishing? Still solid in the mornings. Dry flies are getting it done right out of the gate, and while most trips are half days, we’re able to stretch a few full days up in the cooler upper river sections. What’s different this year is where the fish are holding. Normally, we’re targeting the edges, but after a weird runoff season and big July irrigation bumps, the trout never fully migrated back to the banks. There are still some tucked under cuts and shady wood, but a lot of fish are chilling in mid-river slots. Watch the guides—you’ll see them digging through the sneaky stuff by mid-morning, picking pockets like pros.
For those looking to wade, the Naches and Tieton are your jam. Mornings are best with terrestrials—ants, beetles, bees, or any freaky bug that looks like it crash-landed into the current. Dry-dropper rigs will carry you through midday if you're still poking around after breakfast.
Lastly, the Klickitat River is showing promise for some early steelhead numbers. We’ve got some spots left at our Steelhead Lodge this fall, and trust us—those won’t last. Book a few days, grab a buddy, and come swing for glory. Nobody’s going to schedule your fishing for you. Let’s go!
