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Fly Fishing the Bighorn River in the Winter Months

While most anglers pack away their gear when temperatures drop, seasoned fly fishers know winter on the Bighorn River in Montana holds something special. This world-class trout fishery offers consistent water temperatures, reliable hatches, and peaceful solitude – making it an exceptional choice for those willing to brave the cold.

Why Winter is a Hidden Gem

The Bighorn River benefits from bottom-release flows out of Yellowtail Dam, keeping water temperatures stable even during the coldest months. This creates an active trout population year-round. Winter fishing means fewer anglers, giving you access to prime runs without competition. The combination of clear water and low angling pressure creates a unique opportunity to target trophy rainbows and browns in their most natural state.

Productive Winter Techniques

Winter fly fishing is all about slowing down and fishing methodically. Nymphing is the go-to technique, with small midge patterns, scuds, and sow bugs producing consistent results. On milder days, expect to see midge hatches bringing fish to the surface for dry fly action – a welcome surprise in the heart of winter. Using lighter tippet, subtle presentations, and covering water thoroughly can make all the difference.

What to Expect on the River

Winter days on the Bighorn are serene, with snow-dusted cottonwoods lining the banks and a crisp stillness in the air. Layering up with proper cold-weather gear ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day. Most anglers choose half-day trips to capitalize on the warmer midday hours when fish are most active.

The Benefits of Guided Winter Trips

While experienced anglers can certainly find success on their own, our local guides can maximize your chances. Guides know where fish concentrate during colder months and can provide heated drift boats, warm beverages, and the latest fly patterns for winter success.

Planning Your Winter Fly Fishing Adventure

The winter season runs from December through February, though early March can also be excellent. Lodges and outfitters offer off-season rates, making it an affordable way to experience one of Montana’s most famous rivers.

For anglers seeking solitude, big trout, and the quiet beauty of a Montana winter, the Bighorn River delivers an unforgettable experience. With the right preparation and a willingness to embrace the cold, you might just discover your new favorite time to fish.

Don’t hesitate – book now to secure your winter dates!

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Scheduling Your 2026 Fly Fishing Trip to Bighorn River View Lodge & Cabins

If the Bighorn River is on your bucket list, now is the time to start planning. 2026 may seem far off, but the best dates and lodging at Bighorn River View Lodge & Cabins book quickly, especially during peak hatch seasons. Scheduling early ensures you lock in the perfect window to experience Montana’s most iconic trout river.

Ready to book? Contact us today!

Why Plan Ahead for 2026?

Montana’s Bighorn River consistently ranks as one of the top trout fisheries in the country, attracting anglers from all over the world. By 2026, demand for prime dates will be higher than ever. Booking now not only secures your spot but also gives you flexibility in choosing your preferred season and accommodations.

Choosing Your 2026 Fishing Season

Each season brings something unique to the Bighorn:

  • Spring 2026: Expect strong Baetis and midge hatches, perfect for dry fly purists.
  • Summer 2026: Long days, reliable caddis and PMD hatches, and great opportunities for floating.
  • Fall 2026: Aggressive browns chasing streamers, along with vibrant Montana scenery.
  • Winter 2026: Solitude and dependable nymphing for anglers who like quiet water and big fish.

When scheduling, think about the style of fishing you enjoy most and match your 2026 trip to that season.

Booking Lodging and Guides Early

The cabins and lodge rooms at Bighorn River View Lodge & Cabins are designed for anglers, groups, and families who want both comfort and proximity to the river. By reserving now for 2026, you’ll have first pick of accommodations. The same goes for our professional guides – booking early ensures you will fish with the experts who know the river best.

Planning for Groups in 2026

If you are organizing a group trip – whether it is a family getaway, corporate retreat, or annual fishing tradition – coordinating well in advance for 2026 is essential. Larger groups need the right mix of cabins and lodge space, and early scheduling helps keep everyone under one roof.

Make the Most of Your 2026 Trip

The best trips balance time on the water with relaxation. Build your 2026 schedule to include not just guided days, but also evenings around the fire pit, hearty meals, and time to unwind riverside at the lodge.

Why Wait? Book Now!

2026 will be here before you know it. By scheduling your Bighorn River adventure now with Bighorn River View Lodge & Cabins, you’ll lock in the best season, the right accommodations, and the guides that make this world-class fishery unforgettable. Don’t wait – start planning your 2026 fly fishing trip today.

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Planning Your Fly Fishing Trip to the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, Montana

Plan the Ultimate Fly Fishing Trip to the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, Montana

If you are planning a fly fishing adventure – the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, Montana should be at the top of your list. Known for its cold, clear waters and dense populations of wild brown and rainbow trout, the Bighorn consistently ranks among the top trout fisheries in the country. Whether you are a seasoned angler or new to the sport, Fort Smith offers everything you need for a successful and memorable trip.

Book your fly fishing trip with us today! Contact us.

Best Time to Fish the Bighorn

While the Bighorn River fishes well year-round, spring and fall are considered prime seasons. Spring brings strong hatches of Blue-Winged Olives and midges, while fall offers aggressive brown trout preparing to spawn. Summer months can also be productive, especially early and late in the day. Weather conditions are generally mild, but layering is key for Montana’s ever-changing climate.

Stay at our Incredible Lodge

Fort Smith is a small, welcoming community centered around the fishing lifestyle. Our lodge service offers prime fishing and lodging right on the river. Staying close to the water not only offers easy access to prime fishing spots but also provides the full Montana experience – from riverside sunsets to early morning cast-offs.

Our Expert Guides

To make the most of your Bighorn River trip, our expert guides are there for you! Our guides know the river intimately, from current insect activity to hidden channels holding trophy fish. A guided float trip with us is especially valuable for covering more water and increasing your chances of success.

What to Bring

While local fly shops offer gear and supplies, it is wise to pack your own rods, reels, flies, waders, and weather-appropriate clothing. A good selection of nymphs, dry flies, and streamers will keep you ready for changing conditions and active trout.

Start Planning Today

With world-class fishing, stunning scenery, and the authentic charm of Fort Smith, Montana, a trip to the Bighorn River is one every angler should experience. Book early, prepare well, and get ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime.

Interested in planning your next trip? Book now!

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Fly Fishing the Bighorn River in Montana at Our Lodge: The Ultimate Angling Experience

Fly Fishing the Bighorn River at Our Montana Lodge

If you are dreaming of a legendary fly fishing trip, there is no better destination than Montana’s Bighorn River – and no better place to stay than our lodge right on its banks. Known for its strong trout populations and consistent hatches, the Bighorn offers an unforgettable angling experience year-round Our lodge provides the comfort, hospitality, and expertise to make your trip exceptional.

Stay at our lodge- Bighorn River View Lodge & Cabins for the ultimate fly fishing experience!

Stay in Comfort, Fish in Style

Our lodge is designed with anglers in mind. Wake up steps from the river and start your day with a hearty, homemade breakfast before heading out with one of our experienced guides. After a day on the water, relax with a hot meal, comfortable accommodations, and good company in a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.

Why Fish the Bighorn River?

The Bighorn River is world-renowned for its dense population of wild brown and rainbow trout. With clear, cold tailwater and prolific insect life, anglers enjoy dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing that rivals any river in the West. Whether you are casting to rising fish on calm mornings or stripping streamers through deep runs, the Bighorn offers unmatched variety and productivity.

Guided Trips That Elevate Your Experience

Our professional guides know the river inside and out. From reading the water to selecting the right flies, they help anglers of all skill levels maximize success. Whether it is your first cast or your hundredth, our team ensures a fun, rewarding, and safe experience.

The Perfect Fly Fishing Getaway

Fall, winter, summer, and spring all offer unique opportunities on the Bighorn. Whether you are chasing a hatch or hoping to hook into a trophy brown, our lodge is your basecamp for adventure. Come for the fishing, stay for the scenery, and leave with stories that last a lifetime.

Interested in fly fishing the Bighorn? Visit us at Bighorn River View Lodge & Cabins!

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Plan Your Fall Fly Fishing Adventure on the Bighorn River in Montana

 Book Now for the Best Autumn Experience!

As summer winds down, the Bighorn River in Montana transforms into a fly fisher’s paradise. With cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and hungry trout, fall is one of the best seasons to experience everything this world-class fishery has to offer. If you are considering a trip to Montana this year, now is the time to book your fall fly fishing adventure on the legendary Bighorn River. Give us a call to book at Bighorn River View Lodge & Cabins.

Why Fish the Bighorn in the Fall?

Fall on the Bighorn River brings a special kind of magic. The crisp morning air, golden cottonwoods along the riverbanks, and steady hatches of blue-winged olives and midges create ideal conditions for trout and anglers alike. Water flows are generally stable in the fall, and with the summer traffic gone, you will often find long stretches of river all to yourself.

The Bighorn is renowned for its healthy population of wild brown and rainbow trout. In the fall, these fish become more aggressive in preparation for winter, making them more likely to chase streamers and take dry flies on the surface. The result? Action-packed days and incredible opportunities to catch trophy trout in one of the most scenic settings in the American West.

What to Expect

Fall weather in Montana can range from warm sunny afternoons to chilly mornings, so layering is key. Our guided trips on the Bighorn typically include float fishing, giving you access to some of the river’s most productive runs and riffles. Our experienced guides will help you match the hatch, dial in your presentations, and navigate the changing conditions of the season.

If you are into photography or just appreciate nature, fall on the Bighorn is hard to beat. From bugling elk in the distance to flocks of migrating waterfowl, the river corridor is full of life during this time of year.

Book Early to Secure Prime Dates

September through early November is a high-demand window for fall fishing trips on the Bighorn River. Our lodge can fill up fast. Booking early ensures you get your preferred dates and access to our top-tier accommodations and local expertise.

Whether you are a seasoned fly fisher or a beginner looking for your first big trout, fall on the Bighorn is an unforgettable experience. Do not miss out on one of Montana’s best-kept seasonal secrets – reserve your fall trip with us today!

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How to Plan Your Ultimate Fly Fishing Trip on Montana’s Bighorn River

If you have ever searched “fly fishing Montana,” you will see it is a world-class destination full of legendary rivers like the Madison, Missouri, and Yellowstone. But if you want to fish where solitude meets scenery and where guidance is personal-you belong on the Bighorn River.

Here’s how to build a perfect 3-day escape that combines elite trout fishing, remote lodging, and heart-slowing Montanan calm.

Day 1: Arrival & Evening Drift

  • Fly in & Check-in: Aim for Billings, then enjoy a scenic two-hour drive to Fort Smith. We will handle your transfers and gear setup.
  • Tone-Setting Evening: Hit the water for a sunset drift beneath the cool tailwater of Yellowtail Dam. Early tricos and caddis often ignite the river-perfect for evening dries.
  • Need help with flights or timing? Reach out and we’ll help coordinate your entire arrival.

Day 2: Full-Day Drift Fishing

  • Choose Your Float: Adventure begins with classic stretches-Afterbay to 3 Mile or 3 Mile to Bighorn Access.
  • Fish All Day: Target seams, riffles, and pocket water for brown and rainbow trout-all taking advantage of consistent hatches.
  • Riverside Lunch: Savored on the bank with just you, a packed lunch, and the river. Unplugging has never felt better.
  • Want to customize your float experience? Tell us your style, and we’ll tailor your day.

Day 3: Final Morning & Departure

  • Short Morning Float or Wade: End your trip with a final half-day session-focus on favorite tactics like dry/dropper setups.
  • Take a Moment: Grab a coffee, watch the morning light, and let the peace of the Bighorn linger.
  • Post-Trip Reflections: Leave with more than fish in the net-carry the calm and quiet home.
  • Ready to lock in your itinerary? Book your stay or call us today at 406-666-2550

Why the Bighorn Stands Out Among Montana Rivers

  • Tailwater Consistency: Powered by Yellowstone Basin hydrology, the tailwater below Yellowtail Dam delivers steady flows-ideal for trout growth and feeding habits.
  • Solitude & Scenery: Among Montana’s blue-ribbon rivers like the Madison, Missouri, and Gallatin-the Bighorn offers peace and remote beauty few other waters can match.
  • Local Expertise: Guided floats with Cary and David mean customized strategies, complete gear setup, and zero hassle-all you do is fish.

What’s Included in Your Escape

  • Private lodging & all meals handled
  • Guided fishing trips with flies, gear, and shuttle
  • Logger-level local photo tips & seasonal intel
  • Complete logistics-so every part of your trip flows

Everything’s handled – just show up ready to fish. Start planning now!

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How to Plan the Perfect 3-Day Fly Fishing Trip to the Bighorn River

When you only have a few days to escape, every detail matters. That is what makes the Bighorn River in southeastern Montana such a perfect destination. It is accessible, consistent, and just remote enough to feel like a true break from the modern world.

Whether you are a seasoned angler or simply craving solitude and cold water, this is how to make the most of a 3-day fly fishing trip on the Bighorn River.

Day 1: Arrival + Evening Hatch

Fly in, settle in, slow down.
 Most guests fly into Billings, MT, rent a car, and take a scenic two-hour drive to Fort Smith. When you arrive at the lodge, Cary and David will have everything ready-gear, rooms, food, and a cold drink waiting.

Need help planning your arrival? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

That evening, after a quick gear check and maybe a casting warm-up, you will hit the water for your first float or wade session. Tricos, caddis, and evening risers often light up the surface just before dusk. It is the perfect soft landing after a day of travel.

Ask us about evening float options when booking your trip.

Day 2: Full-Day Float + Unplugged Stillness

Wake up with coffee and a hot breakfast. Then it is time to float.

This is your full immersion day-8 to 10 hours on the water, floating classic Bighorn stretches like Afterbay to 3-Mile or 3-Mile to Bighorn Access. You will stop often to fish riffles, cast to sippers, and swing through deep seams.

Want to fish both dries and nymphs? We’ll tailor the float to your style-let us know.

Lunch is served riverside, often with nothing but the sound of wind in the grass and water moving past your boots. It’s the kind of day where you forget to check your phone-because you actually forgot it was in your pocket.

By the time you return to the lodge, you will feel it: that calm, sun-drenched fatigue that only a real day on the river brings.

Ask about our custom riverside lunch options and dietary accommodations.

Day 3: Morning Session + Reflection

Your final morning is usually reserved for a half-day wade or short float, depending on how you want to close it out. Some guests chase a few more trout before their flight. Others grab coffee and a journal, and sit quietly by the river one last time.

Want a half-day float on your last morning? Just let us know during booking.

Before you go, you will notice something. The noise is gone. The pace has shifted. And even if you do not land a trophy brown, you will leave with something far better – peace.

What’s Included in Your Stay

  • Private lodging and meals
  • Full-day guided floats
  • All flies, gear, and river access
  • Logistics support from start to finish
  • Access to one of Montana’s finest tailwater trout fisheries

We handle every detail so you can focus on fishing. Book your 3-day stay now.

Let’s Build Your Escape

This is not a corporate retreat. It is not a crowded lodge experience. This is real Montana—personal, peaceful, and expertly guided by people who care.

If you are looking for a fly fishing trip that actually resets your soul, you have found it. Click here to request your preferred dates.
Or call us directly at 406-666-2550 to plan your trip.

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Fly Fishing the Bighorn River: 5 Reasons to Visit Montana in Late Summer

 Why Late Summer is the Best Time to Fly Fish the Bighorn River

While many anglers rush to the river in early June, those who know the Bighorn well will tell you the magic often happens after the crowds leave. Late summer-think mid-August through early September-offers a quieter, more soulful version of the Montana fly fishing experience.

Here are five reasons why late summer might just be the best time for fly fishing on the Bighorn River:

1. Less Pressure, More Space

By August, the early-season crowd has thinned out. You will often find more solitude on the water, fewer boats at the put-ins, and more room to fish your favorite riffles without competition.

2. Cooler Mornings and Active Trout

As temperatures drop slightly, water conditions stabilize and trout stay active longer into the day. Early mornings and twilight become prime windows, with trout rising confidently to well-presented dries.

3. Consistent Hatches

Late summer brings reliable trico and caddis hatches. If you enjoy fishing small flies to picky trout in slick water, this is your time. Spinner falls can be intense-and if you are dialed in, the results are unforgettable.

4. Clear, Calm Weather

Montana in late summer is a postcard-blue skies, cottonwood shade, and golden light on the river. It is a perfect window for fishing, photography, and simply unwinding away from screens and schedules.

5. Perfect for Repeat Guests or First-Timers

Whether you have been here before or are planning your first trip, late summer is forgiving and generous. With fewer people, steady weather, and trout still feeding hard, it is ideal for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.

Plan Your Trip Now
 If you are ready to escape the grind and experience the Bighorn River at its most peaceful, late summer fly fishing in Montana is your shot. Book a guided trip, pack your small flies, and let the river do the rest.

fly fishing
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Seasonal Fly Fishing on the Bighorn River: What to Expect Year-Round

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.

Top 10 Fly Patterns
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Top 10 Fly Patterns for Success on the Bighorn River

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 is 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.