Bighorn River Fall Fishing: Nymphs, Streamers, and Trout on Montana's Premier Trout Stream

As of October 17, 2024, the Bighorn River in Montana is offering some promising fishing conditions, despite a few challenges. ### Weather and Water Conditions The weather is transitioning into fall, with cooler nighttime temperatures and daytime highs in the 60s. This change is helping to break up the aquatic grass that has been hindering nymph fishing. The river is flowing at about 2,500 cubic feet per second, and the water temperature is around 59 degrees. ### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise today is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:30 PM, providing ample daylight for a full day of fishing. ### Fish Activity Fish activity has been variable but generally good. Brown trout and rainbow trout are the primary targets, with brown trout being more abundant. Nymph fishing has been the most reliable method, especially in the afternoons when the fish become more active. San Juan Worms, sowbugs, Perdigons, and tan caddis pupa have been the primary producers. ### Types and Amounts of Fish While the exact numbers of fish caught yesterday are not available, the reports indicate that there are plenty of healthy brown trout throughout the entire Bighorn River system. Rainbow trout are less common but still present, particularly in the upper sections of the river. ### Best Lures and Bait For nymphing, use patterns like the Squirmy Worm (blood red or burgundy), Tailwater Sowbug, Carpet Bug Sowbug, and Nightmare Perdigon. Streamer fishing is also picking up, with articulated patterns such as the Jig Thin Mint, Pete’s Bugger, Goldy, and Rusty Trombone working well. For dry fly fishing, although the action is spotty, try Trico spinners, Parachute Adams, and Henryville Caddis. ### Hot Spots One of the best sections to fish is from the dam to the Bighorn Access, a distance of about thirteen miles, which contains the highest population of trout. This area is popular, so be prepared for some company. Another good spot is below the Bighorn Access site, where the river slows down and there are fewer anglers. The islands in the river create diverse habitats, including channels, flats, and pools, which are ideal for finding trout. Overall, the Bighorn River is in good shape for fall fishing, with a mix of nymphing, streamer fishing, and occasional dry fly opportunities. Be mindful of the aquatic grass and keep your flies clean to maximize your chances of catching some of the river's renowned trout. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.