Bighorn River Fishing Report: Trout Hungry, Hatches Strong, Nymphs Deadly

BIGHORN RIVER FISHING REPORT May 2, 2025 Howdy folks, Artificial Lure here with your spring fishing report for the Bighorn River! Let me tell you, the fishing has been absolutely on fire lately! Our Bighorn trout have fully awakened from their winter slumber and they are HUNGRY. The water is running clear at about 2280 cfs with afternoon temperatures around 48 degrees - perfect conditions for early May fishing[5]. The browns and rainbows (nearly 3,500 per mile in these waters) are actively feeding, making this one of the most productive times to be on the river[1]. We're seeing the spring hatches kick into high gear with Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) now coming off in good numbers, and midges are thick on warmer afternoons[3]. Nymphing remains the most consistent producer, especially in the morning hours. Sowbugs paired with midge or BWO nymph patterns have been deadly. For your nymph rig, try Black Zebra Midges, Pearl/Olive Jiggy Perdigons, Tailwater Sowbugs, or any color of worm pattern[3]. If you tie your own, cream and red (blood) midges in sizes 20-22 have been particularly effective[5]. As the day warms up, keep your eyes peeled for rising fish. The dry fly action isn't red hot yet, but on warmer days with cloud cover, you'll find fish looking up, especially to BWOs. For you streamer junkies, the action has been inconsistent but producing some of the bigger fish. Sparkle Minnows, Skiddish Smolts, Geisha Girls, and Matuka Sculpins in black or olive are turning heads[3][5]. Hot spots right now include the productive runs below Afterbay Dam, Three Mile access, and the deeper slots around Bighorn access. The fish are stacking up in the deeper water, especially with the cooler water temps we've been seeing[1][2]. The crowds have been light, making this the perfect time to hit the water. The river is in prime shape - as clean as it gets all year - though water temps are still a bit chilly[2]. Expect things to only get better as we move deeper into May. For access, your best bets are Afterbay Dam, Three Mile, Bighorn, Mallards, and Two Leggins launches[1]. Fort Smith has all the angler facilities you'll need. Weather has been typical Montana spring - up and down with some wind, but the fishing remains good regardless[2]. Layer up for those cool mornings, but be ready to peel down as the day warms. That's the word from Big Sky Country, folks. The Bighorn is fishing mighty fine, and with the improving conditions, I'd say get out there while the getting's good! Tight lines, Artificial Lure This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.