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 spring transition is officially underway on the Bighorn River. While the first Baetis of the season are starting to show, rising fish are still rare, so keep your dry fly expectations tempered for now. It’s about to happen!
Nymphing remains the most productive method for finding consistent action in these tailwater conditions.
Spring has officially arrived on the Bighorn, and the river is responding with consistent fishing. For those looking to beat the April crowds, the window is wide open right now, with fishing very good particularly on the Upper 3-mile stretch and the lower river.
Flow Update: Dropping to 1500 cfs
The headline for the coming week is a shift in water management. Read more...
The calendar might still say March, but the river is already acting like it’s ready for the main event. Spring is officially just around the corner, and the Bighorn is responding with some of the most consistent action we’ve seen all year. Fishing has been very good on the upper 3 and the lower river stretches producing quality fish for those willing to deal with a bit of drifting vegetation. Read more...
We’re getting closer to prime Summer fishing, but still have a bit to go. Many of the rainbows who make up the general fish population in the river are just wrapping up their spawn and returning to the main runs. It’s been an impressive sight to see how many HUGE rainbows are in the system for this season. Read more...
River flows have finally stabilized at 3000 cfs after dropping from the previous 3500 cfs levels. They should remain at this level for a while. There is still some drifting moss below 3 Mile, but appears to be a bit more settled with the reduction in flows.
Fishing has been somewhat spotty lately with some good windows mixed in.
Flows are finally stabilized at 3000 cfs. We’re not sure if it’s going any higher at the moment, but we will keep you posted. Fishing has been a bit touchy during the last flow bumps. Some good moments and some not so good. When the fish settle into their new homes (next couple days), expect some really good fishing. Read more...
Anglers on the Bighorn are finding exceptional subsurface action this week. Mainly nymphing with UV Yum Yums, Carpet Bugs, Tailwater Sows, Silver Bullets, Zebras and Quills.
The rainbow trout spawn is heading toward full swing, so please respect these magnificent fish by avoiding wading through gravel areas with visible redds and giving spawning pairs a wide berth.
Anglers on the Bighorn are finding exceptional opportunities as we transition into spring, with current flows running unusually low and clear, creating perfect sight-fishing conditions throughout the system.
The highly anticipated Baetis hatch appears to be just days away as water temperatures steadily climb, so be prepared for some exciting dry fly action very soon. Read more...
We’re in full Spring mode on the Bighorn. People are out and about to experience some of the awesome Spring fishing we’ve had lately. We’re just starting to see some Baetis get the fishes’ attention, and should turn the corner any time now to consistent dry fly fishing.
Nymphing has been the main game lately. Read more...