Tag Archive for: big horn river nymphing

Fall is quickly approaching the Bighorn Valley.  The mornings are cooler, making the morning fishing a bit slower, so don’t rush getting out on the water.  The big crowds have let up a bit as the whole river is fishing well and pressure has dispersed.  It appears as our Caddis are becoming a bit more sporadic and we’re still waiting on Tricos.  Read more...

What a great Summer season it’s been and it’s not over yet!  We’re rolling into the month of September strong – Caddis are very abundant throughout the whole system.  We’re seeing the largest bug activity on the upper 6 miles or so of the river.  The river is staying clear and cool, which the Bighorn trout are really liking! Read more...

We’re still in prime Summer time here on the Bighorn.   Great and hatches of PMD’s, Black Caddis and Tan Caddis are keeping fish on the feed.  Some of the upper sections are busier than others, but all sections are fishing great!

There are still some good windows of PMD’s, but the Black Caddis are getting thicker and thicker.  Read more...

We’ve got it all going on!  Black Caddis, PMD’s, Sallies and some Tan Caddis.  The best bug activity is happening below 3 Mile access, but expect more bugs on the Upper river shortly.  It’s very busy out there, but the fishing is excellent!

Subsurface the nymph gang is doing well with Tailwater Sows, Carpet Bugs, SH Rays, Split Case PMD’s, Frenchies, Hot Spot PMD’s and a variety of pheasant tail themed patterns. Read more...

It’s game on!  PMD’s finally are showing up in good numbers, at least below 3 Mile.  The fish are on them, but they are by no means easy.  Bring your best dry fly game and you will be rewarded with some big healthy fish.  We’re also seeing a good amount of Black Caddis, which should be a bigger deal once we get into the month of August. Read more...

The River is currently running at 2,200 cfs, which is considered low flow conditions for this time of year. Word on the street is that it could go even lower.  Water clarity remains excellent throughout most of the river, though anglers should be aware that there’s still a significant amount of moss present in the lower sections. Read more...

When crafting your Standard fly fishing leader, the choice between fluorocarbon and nylon can significantly impact your success. Both materials offer unique advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll explore below.

Strength and Durability

  • Fluorocarbon: Offers superior abrasion resistance, making it ideal for fishing larger flies and those effected by what might be under the surface of the water like rocks and sticks.
Read more...

June has been an interesting month on the Bighorn.  Lower than average flows, very cold water and fish that just aren’t exactly ‘gorging.’  There have been some good moments, but we can’t wait for July to arrive, especially when the PMD’s make their appearance.  We’re at least a couple weeks, if not more, from seeing consistent bug activity.  Read more...

The Bighorn River is known for its epic hatches, and during the summer months, caddisflies emerge in abundance, providing anglers with exciting fishing opportunities. Here are some top-performing caddis patterns to target these insects:

1. Double Duck Caddis

A classic caddis pattern, the Double Duck Caddis features two CDC wings that create a lifelike appearance and excellent flotation. Read more...

Fishing has been HOT here on the Bighorn.  PMD’s, Black Caddis and a few Tan Caddis are keeping the Bighorn fish interested up top and underneath.  It’s been a bit busier than usual, so be considerate of other anglers out there!

The upper 3 miles has the most consistent hatch activity from about 11:00 AM till dark. Read more...