Bighorn River Trout Bonanza: Late Spring Fishing Conditions and Techniques

Good morning anglers this is Artificial Lure reporting live from the heart of Big Horn Montana for May 21st 2025. We have a beautiful late spring day shaping up on the Big Horn River and the surrounding waters. First light hit at 538 AM and you can expect to fish until sunset at 836 PM. Weather today is mostly clear with light winds out of the northwest and temperatures climbing from the low 40s up into the mid 70s by afternoon so bring that sunscreen and a light jacket for the morning chill. There are no tidal influences up here but water levels are steady and clarity is good thanks to a mild runoff season. Flows on the river are running a touch above the seasonal average but nothing the trout can’t handle. The bite has really picked up in the last week. Anglers have reported strong numbers of brown and rainbow trout in the 14 to 20 inch range with a few lunkers pushing over 22 inches showing up on nymph rigs and streamer patterns. The upper Bighorn from Afterbay to 13 Mile is fishing especially well with active fish holding in riffles and along deeper seams. Wading the edges or doing a slow float will both put you on fish. Nymphing remains king out here with sowbugs and scuds in sizes 16 to 18 doing a lot of damage. A two-nymph rig with a pink sowbug and a tan scud is a top producer. Fish are still looking up in the afternoons though with blue wing olive and midge hatches bringing some solid dry fly action. Keep a selection of BWO parachutes and Griffiths Gnats in 18 and 20 handy for rising fish. For streamer fans olive or black woolly buggers and smaller articulated patterns have moved some real bruisers, especially in the early morning or evenings. If you are looking for hot spots start at the Afterbay access and work your way down toward Three Mile. The faster runs and drop-offs are holding good numbers. The Bighorn Access and the area around the Bighorn Club have both seen heavier crowds but equally good fishing, especially during evening caddis hatches. All in all conditions are prime right now for anyone chasing trout. Bring your waders, a good mix of nymphs and dries, and patience for the big ones. Tight lines and good luck out there from your friend on the water, Artificial Lure. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.