Bighorn River Offers Excellent Fall Fishing Conditions in Montana

As of October 7, 2024, the Bighorn River in Montana is offering some excellent fishing conditions, especially with the fall season in full swing. The river is flowing at about 2,500 cubic feet per second, which is near normal levels, and the water is clear with a temperature of around 59 degrees. The weather is forecasted to be partly cloudy with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for a day on the water. Expect crisp mornings with pleasant days, characteristic of the fall season. Sunrise is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be around 6:30 PM, giving you a full day to enjoy the river. Fish activity has been good, especially in the afternoons. Nymph fishing, although a bit challenging in the mornings, improves significantly as the day progresses. Anglers have been catching a mix of rainbow and brown trout, with the average size being around 16 inches. Yesterday, anglers reported catching good numbers of trout, particularly in the section from the dam to the Bighorn Access, which contains the highest population of trout. For the best results, use nymphs such as San Juan Worms, sowbugs, Perdigons, and tan caddis pupa. These have been the primary producers lately. Dry fly fishing is spotty, but tricos and caddis are starting to show up, especially in the evenings. Streamer fishing has been mediocre, but using white or two-tone streamers like the Barley Legal can yield some success. Hot spots include the area just below the Yellowtail Dam and the stretch from the dam to the Bighorn Access. These areas offer a diverse habitat with channels, flats, pools, and moderate speed runs, making them ideal for both wading and floating. Be mindful of the aquatic grass, which is starting to choke off some of the runs, so look for clean lanes to cast your line. Overall, the Bighorn River is in great shape for fall fishing, with plenty of trout and a variety of fishing opportunities. Enjoy your day on the water This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.