Bighorn River Fishing Report 8/4

Flows recently dipped down to 1,350 cfs, due to some blockage at the Afterbay gates.  We are expecting them to level back out at 1,500 cfs any day now. Even with the slight fluctuation, the late-summer rhythm on the Bighorn is holding strong, and September is shaping up to be an incredible month on the water since many of our hatches have run a bit later this season.
Bug activity remains a major highlight across the system, though the fish are starting to show a bit more education as we move deeper into the season:
  • Upper 3 Miles: Black caddis are still showing up fairly strong, but the trout in these upper stretches have seen quite a few patterns by now, so a stealthy approach and clean drifts are essential.
  • 3-Mile to Bighorn: The lower end is fishing exceptionally well, with tan caddis making a strong showing.
Best Approaches:
  • Morning Nymphing: The early bite continues to be very reliable. Start your morning with proven producers like Orange Scuds, Tailwater Sowbugs, or Carpet Bugs.
  • Afternoon Transitions: As the day heats up and caddis and PMD activity picks up, switch to a trailing rig. Drop a Poodle Sniffer, a Blowtorch, a Frenchie, or a Pheasant Tail off the back of your lead fly to target active fish.