Fishing Bridge

Fishing Bridge crosses the Yellowstone River where it flows out of Yellowstone Lake, near the East Entrance Road in Yellowstone National Park. Built in 1937 from logs, it was once a popular place to fish for trout; fishing from the bridge has been prohibited since 1973 to protect the declining population. Today, pause to watch cutthroat trout and birds such as pelicans and Canada geese, or take a short walk along the river’s west bank. A general store and gas station are nearby.

A bridge over the river’s outlet

Fishing Bridge crosses the Yellowstone River at the point where it leaves Yellowstone Lake. The log structure was built in 1937 and sits near Grand Loop Road and the East Entrance Road. Its position over the water gives you a view of the river and the lake’s northern shore.

The bridge was once a fishing spot, with anglers casting into an area used by spawning trout. As the lake’s cutthroat trout population declined, fishing from the bridge was prohibited in 1973. You can still watch fish in the water, but fishing here is not permitted.

Wildlife and nearby stops

The river and lake make this a place to look for cutthroat trout, while pelicans and Canada geese are among the birds found nearby. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. This is a wild area, so keep a safe distance from animals and stay alert for bears.

For a short walk, follow the west bank to the U.S. Geological Survey stream gauging station. Past the bridge, the general store has groceries, ice cream and souvenirs, and there is a gas station nearby. The area also has a visitor center and Trailside Museum.