Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Tantalus Creek - Norris Junctioin - Wyoming

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon #18-#24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
BWO Late Morning - Afternoon #18-#22 Parachute Adams, RS2
February Midges Afternoon #16-#22 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
BWO Late Morning - Afternoon #18-#22 Blue Dun, RS2
March Midges Morning - Afternoon #16-#24 Zebra Midge, Disco Midge
Stoneflies Morning - Afternoon #8-#10 Pats Rubber Legs, Montana Prince
April Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #18-#20 Blue Dun, RS2
Caddis Morning - Evening #14-#16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
May Caddis Morning - Evening #12-#14 Parachute Caddis, X-Caddis
Stoneflies All Day #6-#8 Pats Rubber Legs, Stimulator
June Green Drakes Afternoon - Evening #10-#12 Sparkle Dun, Green Drake Cripple
Yellow Sallies Afternoon - Evening #14-#16 Yellow Stimulator, Bullet Head Skwala
July PMDs Morning - Afternoon #16-#18 Comparadun PMD, Light Cahill
Terrestrials All Day #10-#12 Dave's Hopper, Foam Beetle
August Terrestrials All Day #12-#16 Chernobyl Ant, Foam Hopper
Tricos Morning #20-#24 Trico Spinner, Vis-A-Dun Trico
September Blue Winged Olives Afternoon - Evening #18-#22 Comparadun BWO, Tiny Blue Winged Olive
Terrestrials All Day #10-#14 Foam Beetle, Red Ant
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #18-#20 Blue Dun, Extended Body BWO
Midges Morning - Afternoon #16-#24 Disco Midge, Griffith's Gnat
November Midges Morning - Afternoon #18-#24 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
BWO Afternoon #18-#20 Blue Dun, BWO Emerger
December Midges Morning - Afternoon #18-#24 Griffith's Gnat, Disco Midge
BWO Afternoon #18-#22 Parachute Adams, BWO Emerger

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

For fly fishing enthusiasts, the Tantalus Creek – Norris Junction route offers some thrilling spots. Some of the best include:

  • Blacktail Deer Plateau: This area is accessible via the Tantalus Creek trail. It’s a haven for cutthroat trout.
  • Tantalus Creek Mouth: Near its entry point into the Yellowstone River, Tantalus Creek offers great fly fishing conditions full of brown and rainbow trout.
  • Norris Campground: The stream near the Norris Campground is teeming with trout.
  • Obsidian Creek Confluence: This spot near the confluence of Tantalus Creek and Obsidian Creek offers a good variety of fish.

While all these spots promise a great experience, it’s important to carefully choose the time as overcrowding can be an issue during peak season. The streams are open to fishing from the last Saturday in May through the first Sunday in November.

Best Access Points

The Tantalus Creek – Norris Junction area is a top destination for fly fishing thanks to its vibrant fish population and picturesque landscapes. Here are the most accessible points for getting straight to the best fishing spots:

  • Porcelain Basin: Near the Norris Geyser Basin, it offers crystal clear waters teeming with a varied fish population.
  • Ice Lake: Especially popular for its trout population. In the heart of Norris, it’s effortlessly accessible.
  • Norris Campground: A spot on the creek near the campground provides easy access to rich fishing waters.
  • Artist Paintpots: This area is further from popular spots, giving you a peaceful and seemingly untouched fishing environment.
  • Roaring Mountain: While a bit further away, the rewards are quieter fishing spots and a stunning backdrop.

All these access points provide an opportunity for great catches and memorable experiences. Plan your trip well, considering the season, weather conditions, and park rules.

Local Fish

  • Cutthroat Trout: Native species to the waters and a popular catch for fly fishers.
  • Rainbow Trout: Identified by their colorful skin, they’re a favorite among anglers.
  • Grayling: Known for their distinct dorsal fin, this fish is a common target in deeper waters.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Not as sought after due to its taste, but still a prevalent species in the region.
  • Brown Trout: An introduced species that has proven a good catch for fly fishing.
  • Brook Trout: Colorful and active makes them good sport for fly fishers.
  • Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: Named for their distinctive red/orange slash on the throat, they can be found in certain areas of the creek.
  • Golden Trout: Rarer to find, but their attractive coloring makes them a delightful catch.

About The River

Welcome to the magnificent lands surrounding Tantalus Creek and Norris Junction. What’s remarkable about this geographic gem in central Yellowstone National Park is not only its natural splendor, but also its rich history.

Legend has it that centuries ago, Native American tribes used this area as a gathering spot while hunting, fishing, and sharing stories. But the modern history kicked off in 1880 when it was officially discovered by John Norris, the second Superintendent of Yellowstone.

  • Tantalus Creek: Is a noteworthy and scenic spot located just west of Norris Junction. Known for its lively current and abundant trout, it’s a favorite among fly-fishing enthusiasts and aquatic biologists alike.
  • Norris Junction: This central hub serves as a crossroad connecting different park routes. It is named after John Norris and gained prominence as an essential node for transportation, tourism, and research activities.

Whether you’re a history buff, adventurer, or nature lover, the spectacular region of Tantalus Creek and Norris Junction will not disappoint.

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