Bighorn River Fishing Report: Hatches, Nymphs, and Happy Trout on the Bighorn

Hello, anglers! This is Artificial Lure with your Big Horn Montana fishing report for Saturday, May 10th, 2025. The sun broke over the horizon at about 5:50 this morning, and we're looking at a decent day on the water. Spring fishing is in full swing on the Bighorn River, with those resident trout showing excellent condition. Plenty of 18+ inch fish have been coming to the net regularly over the past week. Water conditions are favorable right now. The Bighorn is flowing at a great level for both wade fishing and float trips. Visibility is good, though keep an eye on Soap Creek about 10 miles downstream from the dam - warm temperatures and spring rain can make things murky there. The fish have been most responsive to subsurface presentations. Nymphing has been the ticket to success, with sowbugs and Baetis nymph patterns producing consistently. Try Tailwater Sowbugs in sizes 14-16, Wonder Nymphs in size 18, and Flashback Quill Nymphs. Two-Tone or Orange Scuds as your upper fly can also trigger strikes. For the early bite, size 18 Tung Teasers and other midge pupa imitations have been working well. Dry fly action has been limited but improving. If you stick it out into the afternoon, you'll find some rising fish. Size 20 Sipper Midges, CDC Midges, and Baetis patterns like the Cripple Thor are your best bets. Over on the Big Hole, conditions are stable with about 3 feet of visibility. Fishing has been productive with a mix of nymphs - Pat's Stones in black/brown size 10, Jig Hot Spots size 12, San Juan Worms in pink or red, and Prince Nymphs have all been effective. For those preferring streamers, the Sparkle Minnow J.J. size 6 and Rusty Trombone have been moving fish. Hot spots this weekend: The stretch just below Afterbay Dam has been particularly productive for wade anglers, while float fishing from Three Mile to Bighorn Access is yielding quality browns and rainbows. If you're heading to the Big Hole, the section below Melrose has been seeing good March Brown hatches. Water temperature is sitting around 48-50 degrees, perfect for increasing insect activity. The fish we're seeing caught are healthy and in great shape for the season. Stop by the fly shop in town from 7am to 6pm for all your tackle needs, or give us a call at 406-666-2375 with any questions. Tight lines until next time, folks! This is Artificial Lure signing off. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.