Summer Sizzle on the Bighorn: Trout Bite Heats Up in Montana's Premier Tailwater

Artificial Lure here with your June 20th, 2025 Big Horn, Montana fishing report. It’s shaping up to be one of those classic early summer days on the Bighorn. Weather’s in that sweet spot—starting cool after a crisp 5:29 AM sunrise, warming gently to the upper 70s with just enough breeze to keep the bugs moving, and sunset winding down at 9:08 PM. No tidal action on these Montana waters, but the water’s running clear, levels have dropped to about 4,500 CFS, and conditions are prime. The fish are fired up. This week, the Bighorn Angler folks said the bite has been “on fire,” with trout waking up hungry after the cooler months. Anglers have been pulling in big numbers of brown trout—always the crown jewel of the Bighorn—along with good-sized rainbows, some cutthroats, and plenty of whitefish thrown in for good measure. The last few days saw big catches below Three Mile and heavy action in the deeper runs near Afterbay. For your rig, it’s a nymph and streamer show. The UV Yum Yum and Carpet Bug are still reigning for nymphing—set deep, drift slow, and hold on. The Tailwater Sowbug and Black Zebra Midge are also putting fish in the net. Streamer junkies, throw a Sparkle Minnow or go bold with a Skiddish Smolt or black Peanut Envy—let it sink in those slower, deeper slots and retrieve with patience. The big boys are down low and hungry. If you’re spinning, nothing beats a brown and gold Panther Martin or a gold Cast Master. Early morning, work a Rapala in rainbow or silver along the bank edges for cruising browns before the sun climbs. Worm patterns and scuds are still getting action, especially as the water warms later in the day. Hot spots? You can’t go wrong working the runs below Three Mile Bridge—especially in the mornings—but don’t skip the productive deeper holes near Afterbay Dam. Fish are stacking up there, and you’ll find less pressure. If you’re willing to walk, the side channels above Soap Creek have been sneaky good for both numbers and size. If you’re out midday, keep an eye on the surface—mayflies are starting to pop, and a well-presented dry could turn a slow stretch into an epic one. As always, check your Montana fishing license and stay safe around fast water. Thanks for tuning in to today’s fishing report—whether you’re chasing browns, rainbows, or just that perfect cast, get out there and make the most of these prime Big Horn days. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.