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.