The Bighorn River is having an August to remember; ideal water temperatures 53 degrees to 62 degrees, an abundance of food, have the rivers rainbow and brown trout in full on feed
mode!
Black Caddis are the dominant forage from Afterbay Access down to Bighorn Access. There are plenty of PMD’s still in the trout’s bellies. Sowbugs and scuds are still picking up opportunistically feeding trout throughout the day. Terrestrial fishing has been minimal.
Trout are spread out in prime feeding lies throughout the river, especially during the Black Caddis emergence in the afternoon. Skinny riffles and tailouts are all productive in addition to all the normal, buckets and runs. Short line nymphing and dry dropper is a fun way to fish this time of year. Dry Fly anglers will find heads throughout the day, some in small pods and some just single sippers tight to moss pads. You can still find a few fish that will be easily fooled on top, but most at this point will require a little more attention to detail, strategic planning and finesse to get to eat. Dry fly anglers should carry PMD Cripple, emergers and spinners, along with Black Caddis emerges, adults and egg laying caddis.
The fish are as big and healthy as we have seen. 20 inch fish are common. Please play these fish as quickly as possible, handle them gently and release them quickly. Please reach out to the shop with any questions or to book lodging, guides or meals. 406-666-2375
