Big Horn Montana Fishing Report Today

Fishing Report for Big Horn, Montana - April 9, 2025

Good evening, fishers. The Big Horn River is in prime condition today, offering excellent opportunities for anglers. The weather has been pleasant, with mild temperatures in the mid-50s, clear skies, and light winds. Sunrise was at 6:39 AM, and sunset will be at 7:48 PM, giving you plenty of daylight for a productive fishing session. The water clarity is good, and the flow is near normal at 2,320 CFS.

The fish are active as spring continues to wake them from their winter slumber. Trout, particularly brown trout (averaging 15 inches) and some trophy rainbow trout, are feeding eagerly. Midges and Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) are hatching during the warmest parts of the day, usually mid-afternoon. Anglers have reported excellent nymph and streamer fishing throughout the river system, especially in deeper runs and pools.

Recent catches have been plentiful, with a variety of flies and lures proving effective. Recommended nymphs include Cotton Candies, Tailwater Sows, and Red Bead Carpet Bugs. For streamers, patterns like Rusty Trombones, Thin Mints, and Pete’s Buggers have been yielding great results. If you’re opting for dry flies, the mid-afternoon BWO hatches can be matched with Perfect Fly BWO emergers or adult imitations.

Spin anglers are also having success with lures like gold and silver Panther Martins, Kastmasters, and rainbow-colored Rapalas. These lures, paired with moderate retrieves, are performing well in the current conditions.

Two hotspots to target today:

1. **The 13-Mile Stretch Below the Afterbay Dam**: This section consistently delivers fantastic trout fishing. Focus on the deeper slots and runs where fish are congregating.

2. **Bighorn Access Site Area**: As the current slows and the water warms slightly, this area provides a mix of trout and other species like catfish and whitefish in the lower portions.

Live bait is restricted in most areas of the Big Horn, so stick to artificial flies and lures. Worm patterns, scuds, and midges remain the go-to options for fly anglers.

With light fishing pressure reported in recent days, now is an excellent time to hit the river. Take advantage of these conditions and enjoy some of Montana’s best trout fishing. Tight lines, and happy fishing!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Fishing Report for Big Horn, Montana, April 4, 2025:

Today in Big Horn, Montana, fishing conditions are excellent for anglers targeting trout on the famous Bighorn River. The sunrise was at 7:45 AM, and sunset will occur at 7:34 PM. Expect a full day of fishing opportunity, with mild spring temperatures and generally clear skies making for pleasant conditions throughout the day. The river's flow is steady at 2,320 cfs, and the water clarity remains excellent, with temperatures hovering around 47°F—ideal for trout activity.

Recent catches on the Bighorn River have been plentiful, with anglers reporting success both on nymph rigs and streamers. Brown and rainbow trout are the primary targets, with an impressive density of approximately 3,500 trout per mile. Many anglers have netted healthy rainbows in the 14–20 inch range, while brown trout also show up regularly with sizes reaching 20 inches or more. Hot spots such as the Afterbay Dam and Three Mile Access continue to produce consistent action.

For fly anglers, midges and blue-winged olives (BWOs) are dominating the hatch scene. Recommended flies include size 20-22 cream and red midges, as well as BWO nymphs and emergers in sizes 18-20. Nymph fishing with sowbugs, scuds, and small patterns like the Ray Charles (#16) has been highly productive, especially in the deeper runs and seams. For streamer enthusiasts, articulated patterns like the “Goldie” streamer in white and gold or Thin Mint Woolly Buggers (#6) are performing well, particularly when fished with sinking lines near structure and depth.

Spin anglers are also finding success with Panther Martin spinners in gold or brown and gold, as well as rainbow-colored Rapalas. It's recommended to target areas with structured runs or deeper pools, as these are where the trout are congregating.

Bait options are legal in some areas, but check local regulations before use. Worms and small soft plastics can be effective for those looking to diversify their setups.

For anglers looking to maximize their efforts today, focus on the upper sections of the river below the Afterbay Dam or Three Mile Access. These areas feature clear water and concentrated fish. Subsurface fishing is the standout method, although afternoon hatches may provide opportunities for dry fly action if conditions align.

With excellent water clarity, a diverse set of hatches, and plenty of feeding trout, the Bighorn River is delivering some of the best spring fishing in the region. Whether using flies, lures, or bait, anglers should prepare for a productive day on the water. Tight lines and good luck!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

April 4, 2025 – A crisp spring morning is greeting anglers on the Bighorn River near Fort Smith, Montana. The river is in excellent fishing condition with flows holding steady at approximately 2,270 cubic feet per second and clear water offering prime opportunities to reel in some trophy trout.

Today’s weather is ideal for fishing, with mild temperatures expected to reach the low 50s and calm winds. Sunrise is at 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at 7:45 PM, giving anglers ample daylight to enjoy the river. While tides are irrelevant for this freshwater scenario, the water clarity and temperature, hovering around 47°F

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning anglers! Here’s your Big Horn, Montana fishing report for April 2, 2025.

The weather today is looking favorable for fishing, with partly cloudy skies and temperatures expected to hover around the mid-40s. Sunrise was at 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at 7:28 PM, giving you plenty of daylight for a full day on the water. Conditions are a bit breezy, with light southwest winds, so dress in layers and pack your waders for comfort on the river.

River flows on the Bighorn are steady at approximately 2,300 cubic feet per second (cfs), an ideal level for spring fishing. The water clarity is excellent, and river temperatures are sitting at a cool 42 degrees Fahrenheit. This has created near-perfect conditions for both nymphing and streamer fishing.

In terms of fish activity, anglers have been reporting excellent catches of rainbow trout in the 16-20 inch range, along with some impressive brown trout mixed in. A lucky angler recently landed a stunning 26-inch brown trout! The fish are primarily holding in deep, slow-moving water, making subsurface presentations the most effective approach.

For nymph fishing, try using scuds, sowbugs, and midges. Effective patterns include orange scuds (size 14-16), tailwater sowbugs (size 16-18), and zebra midges (size 18-20). San Juan worms in various colors are also producing consistent results. If streamers are your game, opt for olive woolly buggers, white zonkers, and sculpin patterns. Be sure to fish these streamers slow and deep for the best success.

Hot spots to focus on include the stretch between Afterbay Dam and the 3-Mile Access. This section has been on fire lately, with deep runs and seams holding plenty of fish. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, head further downstream to the 13-Mile Access area; it’s worth the trek for the stellar fishing there.

Bait anglers have also been finding success with nightcrawlers and salmon eggs, but always double-check regulations before using bait in certain areas. For spin fishing, Panther Martin spinners in gold and brown or Rapalas in rainbow and silver colors have been highly productive.

Although tides are not a factor on the Bighorn River, keep an eye on water releases from Yellowtail Dam, as they can influence fishing conditions. Currently, flows are stable, which is working in favor of all anglers.

That’s your Big Horn report for today! Tight lines, and don’t forget to handle those fish with care before releasing them back into the water. Enjoy the spring fishing and good luck out there!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey there, Artificial Lure here with your Big Horn fishing report for March 31, 2025. Let me tell ya, it's been a heck of a week out on the water. Weather's been up and down, but fishing remains good. Temps are hovering around 44 degrees in the water, with air temps expected to stay on the chilly side. We've got some gusty winds and maybe even some snow squalls rolling through, so bundle up if you're heading out.

Sunrise today is around 7:15 AM, and we're looking at sunset about 7:30 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines. Now, we don't have tides to worry about here on the Bighorn River, but flows are running steady at about 2,000 cubic feet per second, which is pretty favorable for fishing.

The fish are waking up out of their winter slumber and seem to be mighty hungry. It's still mostly a nymphing and streamer deal with the cooler water temps, but we should see some fish looking up soon. Browns are nearing the end of their spawning season, but there are still plenty of big, healthy rainbows to be caught.

For nymphs, you can't go wrong with scuds and sowbugs. Try using #14 or #16 Orange Scud, Tailwater Sowbug, or Carpet Bug Sowbug. S.J. Worms in blood red or burgundy are also working well. Other hot nymphs include #16 Frenchie with a gold bead and orange color, and #14 or #16 Ray Charles in grey or tan.

If you're in the mood for some streamer action, tie on a "Goldie" (that's an articulated white & gold streamer). Other good options are #6 Thin Mint Wooley Bugger, #4 Dirty Hippie in cream, or #4 or #6 White Zonker.

As for hot spots, focus on the areas closer to the dam where the water is clearer and the fish are more concentrated. The upper sections of the river have some grass growth, but everything below remains clean and fishes very well. The stretch below Afterbay Dam or the 3-Mile Access area are always good bets.

Just a heads up, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission is holding an emergency meeting today about potentially closing bighorn sheep hunting in hunting district 622 for 2025. Doesn't affect our fishing, but thought you might want to know.

That's the report for today, folks. Remember to keep those bugs clean with all the grass breaking free. Tight lines and see you on the river!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Big Horn fishing report for March 30, 2025. Let me tell ya, it's shaping up to be a mighty fine day on the water.

First off, let's talk weather. We're looking at partly cloudy skies with temperatures climbing into the mid-50s by afternoon. Perfect fishing weather if you ask me. Sun's coming up around 7:15 AM and setting about 7:30 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines.

Now, we don't have tides to worry about here on the Bighorn River, but flows are holding steady around 2,300 cfs, which is great for this time of year. Water clarity is clear as gin, so you'll want to go with lighter tippets and stealthy presentations.

The fish have been biting like crazy lately, especially in the afternoons. Rainbows and browns are the name of the game, with most folks pulling in 16-20 inchers. I've heard tell of a few lucky anglers landing some real bruisers in the 24-inch range too.

For you fly fishing enthusiasts, midges are still the hot ticket. Try cream or red in sizes 20-22. Scuds and sowbugs in sizes 16-18 have been producing well too. Don't forget to keep an eye out for Blue Winged Olive hatches during the heat of the day. It's not gangbusters yet, but be ready to switch it up if you see fish rising.

If you're more of a spin fishing type, small jigs in pink and orange have been doing the trick. Panther Martins in gold and brown are also solid choices. For you bait fishermen, nightcrawlers and salmon eggs are your best bet. Just remember to check local regulations on bait usage.

As for hot spots, you can't go wrong with the stretch below Afterbay Dam or the Three Mile Access area. Plenty of deep runs and riffles to explore. Just remember to mind your manners and give other anglers some space.

One last tip: the grass has been breaking off with the cooler nights, so make sure to keep your bugs clean. It's a bit of a nuisance, but it should clear up as we head downstream.

That's the report for today, folks. Remember to handle those fish with care and practice catch and release when you can. Tight lines and see you on the river!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey there, Artificial Lure here with your Big Horn fishing report for March 28, 2025. Let me tell ya, it's been a heck of a week out on the water.

Weather's been mighty fine lately, with temps in the mid-50s and mostly clear skies. Sun's coming up around 7:15 AM and setting about 7:30 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines. Water temp's hovering around 44 degrees, which has the fish starting to get more active.

Now, we don't have tides to worry about here on the Bighorn River, but flows are running steady at about 2,240 cfs. Water's clear as gin, so you'll want to go with lighter tippets and stealthy presentations.

Fish have been biting like crazy, especially in the afternoons. Rainbows and browns are the name of the game, with most folks pulling in 16-20 inchers. Heard tell of a few lucky anglers landing some real bruisers in the 24-inch range too.

For flies, midges are still the hot ticket. Try cream or red in sizes 20-22. Scuds and sowbugs in sizes 16-18 have been producing well too. If you're more of a spin fishing type, small jigs and spinners in gold or silver are your best bet.

As for hot spots, you can't go wrong with the stretch below Afterbay Dam or the 3-Mile Access area. Plenty of deep runs and riffles to explore. Just remember to mind your manners and give other anglers some space.

Nymphing has been the most consistent producer, but we've seen some good dry fly action on cloudy days. Keep an eye out for BWO hatches, especially in the afternoons.

For you streamer junkies, now's the time to break out those big, articulated patterns. The Goldie (white and gold) has been absolutely crushing it lately. Don't be afraid to go big and strip it fast.

Word to the wise, though - we've been seeing more grass breaking off with the cooler nights, so keep your bugs clean and check 'em often.

All in all, fishing's been pretty darn good on the Bighorn. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a greenhorn, there's plenty of action to be had. Just remember to pick up your Montana fishing license and respect the river.

That's the report for today, folks. Tight lines and see you on the river!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Big Horn, Montana fishing report for March 26, 2025. Let me tell ya, it's shaping up to be a beautiful day out on the water!

First off, let's talk weather. We're looking at partly cloudy skies with temperatures climbing into the mid-50s by afternoon. Perfect fishing weather if you ask me! Sun's coming up around 7:15 AM and setting about 7:30 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines.

Now, onto the good stuff - the fishing! The Bighorn River's been fishing really well lately. Water flows are holding steady around 2,300 cfs, which is great for this time of year. Water clarity is clear as gin, so you'll want to go with lighter tippets and stealthy presentations.

Rainbows and browns are the name of the game right now, with most folks pulling in 16-20 inchers. I've heard tell of a few lucky anglers landing some real bruisers in the 24-inch range too. The fish seem to be most active in the early morning and late afternoon hours.

For you fly fishing enthusiasts, midges are still the hot ticket. Try cream or red in sizes 20-22. Scuds and sowbugs in sizes 16-18 have been producing well too. Don't forget to keep an eye out for Blue Winged Olive hatches during the heat of the day. It's not gangbusters yet, but be ready to switch it up if you see fish rising.

If you're more of a spin fishing type, small jigs in pink and orange have been doing the trick. Panther Martins in gold and brown are also solid choices. For you bait fishermen, nightcrawlers and salmon eggs are your best bet. Just remember to check local regulations on bait usage.

As for hot spots, you can't go wrong with the stretch below Afterbay Dam or the Three Mile Access area. Plenty of deep runs and riffles to explore. Just remember to mind your manners and give other anglers some space.

One last tip: the grass has been breaking off with the cooler nights, so make sure to keep your bugs clean. It's a bit of a nuisance, but it should clear up as we head downstream.

That's the report for today, folks. Remember to handle those fish with care and practice catch and release when you can. Tight lines and see you on the river!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Big Horn fishing report for March 24, 2025. Let me tell ya, it's been a heck of a week out on the water!

Weather's been mighty fine lately, with temps in the mid-50s and mostly clear skies. Sun's coming up around 7:15 AM and setting about 7:30 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines. Water temp's hovering around 44 degrees, which has the fish starting to get more active.

Now, we don't have tides to worry about here on the Bighorn River, but flows are running steady at about 2,300 cfs. Water's clear as gin, so you'll want to go with lighter tippets and stealthy presentations.

Fish have been biting like crazy, especially in the afternoons. Rainbows and browns are the name of the game, with most folks pulling in 16-20 inchers. Heard tell of a few lucky anglers landing some real bruisers in the 24-inch range too.

For flies, midges are still the hot ticket. Try cream or red in sizes 20-22. Scuds and sowbugs in sizes 16-18 have been producing well too. If you're more of a spin fishing type, small jigs and spinners in gold or silver are your best bet.

As for hot spots, you can't go wrong with the stretch below Afterbay Dam or the 3-Mile Access area. Plenty of deep runs and riffles to explore. Just remember to mind your manners and give other anglers some space.

The nymph fishing has been fair to good, with afternoons often providing the best action, especially on sunny days. Streamer fishing is picking up steam too, so don't be afraid to throw some bigger flies. The "Goldie" streamer (articulated white & gold), Rusty Trombone, and the ever-productive Thin Mint have all been getting it done.

For you dry fly enthusiasts, we're starting to see some Blue-Winged Olive activity, though it's still pretty sparse. Keep an eye out for rising fish, especially in the slower stretches.

That's the report for today, folks. Remember to check your regulations and get your license before heading out. Tight lines and see you on the river!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey there, Artificial Lure here with your Big Horn fishing report for March 23, 2025. Let me tell ya, it's been a heck of a week out on the water!

Weather's been mighty fine lately, with temps in the mid-50s and mostly clear skies. Sun's coming up around 7:15 AM and setting about 7:30 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines. Water temp's hovering around 44 degrees, which has the fish starting to get more active.

Now, we don't have tides to worry about here on the Bighorn River, but flows are running steady at about 2,300 cfs. Water's clear as gin, so you'll want to go with lighter tippets and stealthy presentations.

Fish have been biting like crazy, especially in the afternoons. Rainbows and browns are the name of the game, with most folks pulling in 16-20 inchers. Heard tell of a few lucky anglers landing some real bruisers in the 24-inch range too.

For flies, midges are still the hot ticket. Try cream or red in sizes 20-22. Scuds and sowbugs in sizes 16-18 have been producing well too. If you're more of a spin fishing type, small jigs and spinners in gold or silver are your best bet.

As for hot spots, you can't go wrong with the stretch below Afterbay Dam or the 3-Mile Access area. Plenty of deep runs and riffles to explore. Just remember to mind your manners and give other anglers some space.

Nymphing has been the most productive method lately, but don't count out streamer fishing. Thin Mints, Goldies, and Rusty Trombones have all been working well. Just make sure to use a longer sink tip and fish those deep troughs.

For you dry fly enthusiasts, we're starting to see some Blue Winged Olives popping off during the heat of the day. It's not gangbusters yet, but keep an eye out and be ready to switch it up if you see fish rising.

One last thing - the grass has been breaking off with the cooler nights, so make sure to keep your bugs clean. It's a bit of a nuisance, but it should clear up as we head downstream.

That's the report for today, folks. Tight lines and see you on the river!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.