Yellowstone National Park is home to a rich and diverse array of fish species, both native and non-native, that play a crucial role in the park’s delicate ecosystem. From the iconic Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout to the introduced Lake Trout, the park’s waters offer a unique and captivating fishing experience for visitors and enthusiasts alike.
Native Fish Species
Yellowstone National Park is home to a variety of native fish species, each with its own unique characteristics and ecological significance.
Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
The Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) is the most widespread native trout in the park, providing a vital food source for various birds and mammals. These resilient fish are known for their vibrant coloration and are a prized catch for anglers.
Westslope Cutthroat Trout
The Westslope Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus lewisi) is found in the Gallatin and Madison river drainages within the park. Conservation efforts have been successful in restoring populations to nearly 70 stream miles and 280 lake acres.
Arctic Grayling
The Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arcticus) historically existed in the Gallatin and Madison river drainages, with introduced populations now found in Grebe Lake, Wolf Lake, and Cascade Lake.
Mountain Whitefish
The Mountain Whitefish (Prosopium williamsoni) is native to the park’s lakes and streams, contributing to the ecosystem and providing recreational fishing opportunities.
Other Native Species
The park is also home to a variety of other native fish species, including Longnose Dace, Longnose Sucker, Mountain Sucker, Utah Sucker, Speckled Dace, Redside Shiner, Mottled Sculpin, and the Snake River Cutthroat Trout.
Non-Native Fish Species
In addition to the native fish species, Yellowstone National Park has also seen the introduction of several non-native fish species, which can have significant impacts on the ecosystem.
Brown Trout
The Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) was introduced from Europe and is known for being an aggressive predator, thriving in the Firehole River.
Lake Chub
The Lake Chub (Couesius plumbeus) was introduced by bait fishermen into Yellowstone Lake, McBride Lake, and Abundance Lake.
Brook Trout and Rainbow Trout
The Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) and Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) have also been introduced and are competing with native species for resources and habitat.
Lake Trout
The Lake Trout (Salvelinus namaycush) is a particularly problematic non-native species, as it has negatively impacted the native Cutthroat Trout populations in Yellowstone Lake.
Cutthroat Trout x Rainbow Trout Hybrid
The Cutthroat Trout x Rainbow Trout Hybrid is another non-native species found in the park, resulting from the interbreeding of the two species.
Fishing Regulations and Information
Fishing in Yellowstone National Park is a popular activity, but it is subject to specific regulations and guidelines to ensure the conservation of the park’s aquatic resources.
- All native fish, including Cutthroat Trout, Mountain Whitefish, and Arctic Grayling, must be released unharmed.
- Anglers must obtain a valid fishing permit and adhere to catch limits, gear restrictions, and seasonal closures.
- Popular fishing spots include the Yellowstone River, Madison River, Lamar River, and Yellowstone Lake.
- Guided fishing tours and boat rentals are available on Yellowstone Lake.
- Year-round fishing opportunities are available at the Madison River and Gardner River.
Conservation Efforts
The National Park Service and various conservation organizations are actively working to preserve and restore the native fish populations in Yellowstone National Park.
- The Native Fish Conservation Program focuses on preserving the Yellowstone Lake Cutthroat Trout and restoring fluvial trout populations.
- Conservation actions have successfully restored and expanded Westslope Cutthroat Trout populations to nearly 70 stream miles and 280 lake acres.
Yellowstone National Park’s diverse and unique fish species are a testament to the park’s rich natural heritage. By understanding the park’s native and non-native fish, anglers and visitors can appreciate the delicate balance of the ecosystem and contribute to the ongoing conservation efforts that ensure the long-term survival of these remarkable aquatic creatures.
References
- National Park Service. (2024). Fish Ecology – Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/fish-ecology.htm
- National Park Service. (2024). Catch a Fish – Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/fishing.htm
- Yellowstone National Park Lodges. (2024). A Guide to Fishing in Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/connect/yellowstone-hot-spot/a-guide-to-fishing-at-yellowstone-national-park/
- Yellowstone. (n.d.). Fish of Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstone.co/fish.htm
- Wikipedia. (n.d.). List of fishes of Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_fishes_of_Yellowstone_National_Park