Month: March 2025

The Bighorn River is one of the most renowned fly fishing destinations in the world, offering steady water flows, prolific insect hatches, and breathtaking scenery. No matter the time of year, the river provides exciting opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. However, each season presents unique challenges.

To maximize success on the Bighorn, understanding seasonal changes in fish behavior, water conditions, and hatch cycles is essential. Whether you are planning a trip during the bloom of spring, the warmth of summer, the solitude of fall, or the crisp chill of winter, adapting to seasonal conditions will elevate your fishing experience.

Spring (March – May): The Start of Prime Season

Why Spring Fly Fishing is Special

As winter loosens its grip, the Bighorn River comes alive with activity. Trout, responding to warming temperatures, become more active, and early-season hatches provide excellent dry fly opportunities. Since the water is often clearer before spring runoff, this season is ideal for sight-fishing.

What to Expect

• Hatches: Midges, Blue Winged Olives (BWOs), and early Baetis mayflies.
• Water Conditions: Variable flows, but early spring offers clearer water before runoff.
• Trout Behavior: Fish begin feeding more aggressively, especially on emerging insects.

Recommended Gear

• Rod Weight: 4-5 weight rods for delicate presentations.
• Flies: Small nymphs and dry flies to match midges and BWOs.
• Techniques: Nymphing is highly effective, but dry fly fishing improves as temperatures rise.

Summer (June – August): Peak Fishing & Big Hatches

Why Summer is Prime Time

Summer is the busiest and most productive time for fly fishing on the Bighorn River. With abundant hatches and consistent flows, anglers can enjoy topwater action and long days on the water. This season is particularly great for dry fly enthusiasts, as trout aggressively feed on surface insects.

What to Expect

• Hatches: Pale Morning Duns (PMDs), Yellow Sallies, Caddis, and Tricos.
• Water Conditions: Stable flows due to dam-controlled releases, making it ideal for wading and drifting.
• Trout Behavior: Fish rise consistently, making it a perfect time for dry fly fishing.

Recommended Gear

• Rod Weight: 5-6 weight rods for handling bigger fish and stronger currents.
• Flies: Dry flies such as PMDs, Tricos, and Caddis patterns.
• Techniques: Focus on matching the hatch and long, natural drifts for the best results.

Fall (September – November): Solitude & Strong Hatches

Why Fall Fly Fishing is Unique

For those who enjoy less crowded waters and aggressive trout, fall is an ideal season. As temperatures cool down, fish start preparing for winter by feeding heavily, and streamer fishing becomes more productive.

What to Expect

• Hatches: Tricos, BWOs, and the beginning of streamer season.
• Water Conditions: Clear and stable, providing excellent sight-fishing opportunities.
• Trout Behavior: Fish bulk up for winter, becoming more aggressive toward streamers.

Recommended Gear

• Rod Weight: 5-6 weight rods for versatility.
• Flies: BWOs for surface action and streamers for larger trout.
• Techniques: Mix nymphing, dry fly fishing, and streamer retrievals based on conditions.

Winter (December – February): A Hidden Gem for Die-Hard Anglers

Why Winter Fly Fishing is Worth It

Many anglers overlook winter, but those willing to brave the cold can experience some of the best fishing of the year. With minimal angling pressure, trout remain undisturbed and willing to take well-presented flies.

What to Expect

• Hatches: Midges dominate, with occasional BWOs.
• Water Conditions: Low flows and steady conditions make for easier presentations.
• Trout Behavior: Fish conserve energy, feeding in slower water and deeper pools.

Recommended Gear

• Rod Weight: 4-5 weight rods for precise presentations.
• Flies: Midge patterns, small BWOs, and slow-moving nymphs.
• Techniques: Fish low and slow, focusing on deep runs and tailwaters.

Fly fishing on the Bighorn River is a year-round adventure, with each season offering a unique experience. Whether you are casting to hungry post-winter trout in spring, rising fish during summer hatches, aggressive browns in the fall, or undisturbed winter trout, understanding seasonal patterns will greatly enhance your success.

Being prepared with the right flies, techniques, and strategies will allow you to adapt to changing conditions and maximize every trip. If you are ready to experience the best fly fishing Montana has to offer, contact Bighorn Lodge today to book your perfect fishing getaway.

The Bighorn River is widely regarded as one of the premier fly fishing destinations in the United States. Known for its steady water flows, rich aquatic life, and thriving trout populations, it offers anglers an opportunity to experience world-class fishing. However, success on this river depends on one critical factor—choosing the right fly pattern. Since the Bighorn River supports a diverse range of insect hatches, trout feed selectively depending on the season, water conditions, and available food sources. For this reason, understanding which fly patterns work best throughout the year can significantly improve your catch rate. Whether you are an experienced angler or just starting out, having the right flies in your box will make a huge difference. Learn the top 10 fly patterns that consistently catch fish on the Bighorn River, with tips on when and how to use them.

Top 10 Fly Patterns

1. Zebra Midge

Best Season: Year-round

Best Use: Nymphing in slow-moving pools and tailouts

Why It Works:

Midges make up a significant portion of a trout’s diet, especially in colder months when other insects are scarce. The Zebra Midge is an effective subsurface pattern that imitates midge larvae and works exceptionally well in deep pools and slow-moving currents.

How to Fish It:

• Use a light indicator rig with a small weight to drift the fly naturally.
• Fish size 18-22 Zebra Midges in red, black, or olive.

2. Ray Charles Sowbug

Best Season: Fall, winter, and early spring

Best Use: Drifted along the river bottom where trout feed

Why It Works:

The Ray Charles Sowbug has become legendary on the Bighorn River because sowbugs are a dominant food source. Since the river is home to thousands of sowbugs, trout feed on them consistently, making this pattern a must-have.

How to Fish It:

• Fish it deep as a nymph with split shot to get it to the bottom.
• Use size 14-18 in tan, grey, or pink for the best results.

3. Pheasant Tail Nymph (PTN)

Best Season: Spring and summer

Best Use: Excellent BWO imitation for nymphing rigs

Why It Works:

This classic nymph mimics Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) nymphs, which are a staple in the trout diet. It’s an essential fly pattern for spring and summer when BWOs are most active.

How to Fish It:

• Drift under an indicator or use as a dropper under a dry fly.
• Size 14-18 works best on the Bighorn.

4. RS2 Emerger

Best Season: Spring and fall

Best Use: Drifted just below the surface during BWO hatches

Why It Works:

The RS2 Emerger is perfect for imitating mayflies struggling to emerge from the water’s surface, making it an excellent choice for when BWOs are hatching.

How to Fish It:

• Dead-drift in the surface film or swing slightly.
• Fish size 16-20 in grey, olive, or black.

5. Parachute Adams

Best Season: Summer and fall

Best Use: A go-to dry fly for rising trout

Why It Works:

The Parachute Adams is one of the most versatile dry flies available. Since it mimics mayflies and midges, it is an essential pattern for surface-feeding trout.

How to Fish It:

• Cast upstream to rising trout and let it drift naturally.
• Size 14-18 works best on the Bighorn.

6. CDC Caddis

Best Season: Late spring and summer

Best Use: Best fished dry during an evening caddis hatch

Why It Works:

Caddisflies are prolific on the Bighorn, and trout feed aggressively on them during the evening. The CDC Caddis is a high-floating dry fly that perfectly mimics the natural insect.

How to Fish It:

• Drift on the surface during an active hatch.
• Use size 14-18 in tan or olive.

7. Trico Spinner

Best Season: Summer

Best Use: For late-morning fishing when Trico hatches are abundant

Why It Works:

The Trico hatch happens in the mornings, and trout focus heavily on spent spinners. The Trico Spinner pattern perfectly matches these conditions.

How to Fish It:

• Use long, fine leaders for a natural presentation.
• Best in size 20-24.

8. Woolly Bugger

Best Season: Year-round

Best Use: Strip near banks or drift in deep runs

Why It Works:

The Woolly Bugger is a versatile streamer that imitates baitfish, leeches, and large nymphs. Because it triggers aggressive strikes, it is a go-to fly for catching larger trout.

How to Fish It:

• Strip in quick bursts near structure.
• Size 6-10 in black, olive, or brown works best.

9. Mysis Shrimp

Best Season: Year-round

Best Use: Best used below the dam where shrimp are abundant

Why It Works:

Mysis shrimp are a primary food source for trout below the dam. This fly pattern mimics drifting shrimp, making it a top-producing option in these areas.

How to Fish It:

• Fish deep using a nymph rig.
• Use size 14-18.

10. Bunny Leech

Best Season: Fall and winter

Best Use: Large, hungry trout will take this during cooler months

Why It Works:

The Bunny Leech is a large, meaty streamer that attracts aggressive brown trout in cold water conditions. This fly is perfect for anglers looking to target trophy fish.

How to Fish It:

• Strip slow and deep during cold months.
• Size 4-8 in black, olive, or purple.

Having the right flies is half the battle when fishing the Bighorn River. By selecting the best patterns for the season, you can match the hatch and increase your chances of landing more trout. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned angler, these proven fly patterns will help you succeed.

For those looking to stock up on the best flies for the Bighorn River, visit the Bighorn Fly Shop for high-quality gear, expert recommendations, and everything you need for your next fishing adventure.

Fly fishing on the Bighorn River is an experience unlike any other. While this river offers excellent fishing opportunities year-round, knowing where to fish, what flies to use, and how to read the water requires experience. That’s where the expert guides at Bighorn Lodge come in.

Our team of seasoned anglers has decades of experience navigating the Bighorn River, ensuring that guests not only catch fish but also gain valuable skills and knowledge. Whether you are new to fly fishing or an experienced angler looking for a challenge, our guides are committed to making your trip an unforgettable experience.

Meet Our Expert Guides

John Patterson – 25 Years on the Bighorn River

With over two decades of guiding experience, John understands the seasonal changes, insect hatches, and trout behavior on the Bighorn River. His expertise in dry fly fishing and advanced nymphing techniques makes him an ideal guide for anglers looking to improve their skills.

• Favorite Fly: Parachute Adams
• Pro Tip: “When fish are picky, focus on drift and presentation rather than fly choice. A well-drifted fly is more effective than the perfect pattern fished poorly.”
• Best Time to Fish with John: Spring and summer, when hatches are at their peak.

John’s ability to read water conditions and place clients in the best spots has helped countless anglers land trophy trout.

Sarah Mitchell – Passion for Teaching Beginners

Sarah is recognized for her patience, enthusiasm, and ability to make fly fishing accessible to newcomers. For years, she has helped anglers of all ages develop confidence in their casting, mending, and hook-setting skills.

• Favorite Fly: RS2 Emerger
• Pro Tip: “Start with a nymph setup if dry flies aren’t working—it’s a guaranteed way to get bites.”
• Best Time to Fish with Sarah: Spring and fall, when fish are actively feeding.

Sarah believes fly fishing is about more than just catching fish—it’s about connecting with nature, learning, and having fun.

James “Jim” Reynolds – The Streamer King

If you’re looking for big fish and aggressive takes, Jim is your go-to guide. With a background in competitive fly fishing and trophy trout hunting, Jim is known for his expert streamer techniques.

• Favorite Fly: Woolly Bugger
• Pro Tip: “Early mornings and late evenings are best for aggressive streamer fishing. Cover a lot of water and vary your retrieve to find what works.”
• Best Time to Fish with Jim: Fall and winter, when large browns are feeding aggressively.

Jim’s passion for fly fishing is contagious, and his techniques have helped many anglers land their biggest trout yet.

Why You Should Book a Guide on the Bighorn River

While the Bighorn River provides excellent fishing opportunities, hiring a guide can dramatically improve your chances of success. Whether you are completely new to fly fishing or an experienced angler, booking a guide offers several advantages.

1. Local Knowledge of the River

The Bighorn River is constantly changing due to seasonal water flows, insect hatches, and fish movements. Our guides have spent years learning where the fish are, what they are feeding on, and how to approach different sections of the river.

2. Access to Prime Fishing Spots

Instead of spending hours searching for the best locations, our guides will take you directly to the most productive stretches of the river. Additionally, they have access to private land, boats, and float trips, ensuring that you fish in the best possible conditions.

3. Personalized Instruction and Coaching

Every angler has room to improve their technique. Our guides offer hands-on instruction to help you refine your cast, improve your drift, and fight big fish more effectively. Their goal is to teach skills that will last a lifetime, making each trip both enjoyable and educational.

4. High-Quality Gear and Flies

Not everyone owns top-tier fly fishing gear. When you book a trip with Bighorn Lodge, you gain access to premium rods, reels, waders, and hand-selected flies—ensuring you have the best equipment for the conditions.

5. A Stress-Free Fishing Experience

Planning a fishing trip requires time and preparation. However, booking a guided trip removes the hassle. From selecting the right flies to navigating the river, everything is taken care of. All you have to do is show up and fish.

What to Expect on a Guided Trip

A guided fly fishing trip on the Bighorn River is more than just catching fish—it’s an adventure. Here’s how a typical trip unfolds:

Morning

• Meet your guide for a briefing and gear setup.
• Discuss water conditions and fishing techniques for the day.
• Begin fishing with a combination of dry flies, nymphs, or streamers based on the conditions.

Midday

• Take a break for lunch on the riverbank, where your guide will discuss strategy adjustments.
• Move to different sections of the river based on where trout are actively feeding.

Afternoon

• Target prime evening hatches or swing streamers for big fish.
• Wrap up the day with photos, stories, and reflections before returning to the lodge.

guides for fly fishing trip on the Bighorn River is about more than just landing fish—it’s about gaining new skills, experiencing the beauty of the river, and creating lasting memories. Our expert guides at Bighorn Lodge are dedicated to making every trip exceptional, ensuring that each guest leaves with more knowledge, confidence, and a passion for fly fishing.

Whether you’re looking to improve your casting technique, chase trophy trout, or simply enjoy a stress-free day on the river, our guides are here to help.