Bighorn River Fishing Report 10/9
We are officially in a classic autumn transition period on the Bighorn. Bighorn Lake is experiencing its annual turnover, and the river has been taking on some characteristic “greener” water as things mix. Because of this seasonal shift, overall fishing has gotten a bit tougher. Hatches in general—and the caddis in particular—are definitely starting to fade.
The trout are adjusting to the changing conditions, which means you have to work a little harder for them, but the changing weather brings its own opportunities. On the bright side, streamer fishing has really started to pick up on those overcast, foul-weather days as fish look for larger meals.
What’s Working
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Nymphing: When the bite is technical, getting your flies right down in their zone is essential. Keep leaning on trusted confidence patterns like Tailwater Sowbugs, Orange Scuds, Pete’s Carpet Bug, the Red Bead Ray Charles, Hare’s Ears, CDC Pheasant Tails, Nightmare Jigs, Duracells, Frenchies, or Blowtorch Jigs.
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Streamers: Stick to the classics – Pete’s Bugger, Goldies, Rusty Trombones, Leeches, Bighorn Buggers, especially when the weather turns grey and nasty.
Stop by the shop to check out our turnover selection and get your boxes dialed in for fall conditions. We’ll see you out on the water!