Bighorn River in Montana Presents Challenging Yet Rewarding Fishing Conditions for Late Fall

As of November 23, 2024, the Bighorn River in Montana is presenting some challenging yet rewarding fishing conditions. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water. ### Weather and Water Conditions The weather is expected to be relatively stable, with temperatures in the upper 40s to low 50s, which is typical for late fall. Water clarity is still a bit off due to aquatic grass breaking off and floating downriver, but the river is slowly cleaning up. ### River Flows and Water Temperature The river flows are currently at 2,200 cfs, and the water temperature is around 50 degrees. These conditions are favorable for nymph fishing, which remains the most effective technique right now. ### Fish Activity Nymph fishing has been the mainstay, with scuds, sowbugs, and San Juan Worms being the primary producers. You can also catch some big fish on streamers, although the numbers are not large. Brown trout are actively spawning, so it's important to avoid fishing near redds and focus on the deep runs and holes where trout are feeding. ### Best Lures and Bait For nymphs, use #14, #16 Orange Scud, #14, #16 Tailwater Sowbug, #16 Carpet Bug Sowbug, and #10 Squirmy Worm (blood red or burgundy). Streamers like the #6 Thin Mint Wooley Bugger, #4 Articulated Goldy, and #4 Dirty Hippie (cream) are also effective. Dry fly action is spotty, but if you try, look for Pale Olive Baetis and midges. ### Hot Spots Focus on the deep runs and holes, particularly in the top 13 miles of the river. The areas around Forrester's Big Horn River Resort and the sections near St. Xavier are known for clean lanes and better fishing conditions despite the aquatic grass. ### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise today is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:30 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing day, especially if you're targeting specific hatches or activity periods. ### Additional Tips Given the low, clear water, use finer tippets (4X or 5X) and stealthy approaches to avoid spooking the trout. Tandem nymph rigs fished about 5 feet below a strike indicator are highly recommended. Overall, while the conditions are a bit challenging, the Bighorn River still offers excellent fall fishing opportunities for those willing to adapt and use the right techniques and lures. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.