We have made it to the end of May with the bulk of spring fishing behind us. We are at the tail end of our seasonal Midge and BWO emergences here on the Bighorn. Overcast days will
still produce the best insect activity – bringing your best chance to see fish feeding on top and trout keying in on emerging nymphs in the water column.
Water temperatures have been hovering around the mid 40’s out of Afterbay Dam, with flows steady around 1500. We expect flows to remain at this level for the extended future. Yes, it is lower than normal, and many of the rivers side channels are void of the number of trout that normally populate them. With that being said the main river is fishing well. Moss is a factor the further down river you get from the Afterbay. Anglers having the most success, know the importance of and make the effort to keep their flies clean diligently.
Guides boat fishing deeper in the center of the river are able to produce good numbers of fish to the net each day. Most guides are fishing indicator nymph rigs, with the weight(tungsten or split shot) around 7 feet from the indicator. A sowbug or scud have been producing as a top fly throughout the river. Some days are double sowbug days and other times when insects are hatching a midge pupa, perdigon or other small nymph such as a quill are taking fish. When wade fishing shorten up your indicator to weight distance. There are many productive areas to wade fish between the main boat fishing spots. Just take the time to fish water thoroughly and change up your bugs.
Streamer Fishing is producing on overcast days and for those that commit to playing the game. Fish early and late to avoid peak river traffic for the best success with streamers.
The shop is open everyday from 7am to 6pm. We are here for all of your guided fishing, lodging and boat rental needs. Call the shop with any questions, we are always here to help. 406-666.2375.
