Bighorn River Fishing Report 5/31

The Bighorn River is currently in a resilient spring rhythm, with flows still at approximately 1,500 cfs. The water remains exceptionally clear, and this stability is expected to hold for the foreseeable future.

While the low, clear conditions and the popularity of the season make for a technical challenge, they also offer a rewarding experience for those who adapt. The fish are more selective and aware of their surroundings. We are seeing a higher concentration of boats and waders in the prime runs, so it is a wonderful opportunity to practice patience, embrace the camaraderie of the river, and exercise excellent etiquette as we share the water.

Tactics & Patterns

The most productive window continues to be the late morning through the early afternoon. As the fish become more discerning, nymphing remains the most effective technique to intercept them. To find success, key your fly box to the following patterns:

  • Sowbugs: Tailwater Sows, Carpet Bugs and Yum Yums

  • Midges: Zebra Midges, Green Weenies, Graveyard Midges

  • Scuds: Dorsey’s UV and JR’s Scud

  • Mayflies: A variety of Baetis-style perdigons  (Silver Bullet, Diabaetis, Black Magic, France Fly)

Not a lot for surface activity, but we are seeing some fish up on Midges and random Baetis later in the evenings…

We are still in the heart of the rainbow trout spawning season. Please remain aware of your surroundings and avoid wading through or anchoring near gravelly spawning beds. Protecting these areas is a small but critical investment in the next generation of Bighorn trout, and it’s a standard we are proud to uphold together as a community.

The river is clear, the trout are active, and the challenge is part of the charm!