Bighorn River
MT
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River
About Bighorn River
The Bighorn River in Montana is a premier tailwater fishery renowned for its exceptional brown trout and rainbow trout fly fishing, boasting an incredibly dense fish population of three to five thousand trout per mile, particularly in the 13-mile stretch below Yellowtail Dam. Anglers can anticipate excellent dry fly opportunities, with significant hatches including Pale Morning Duns, Caddis, Blue Wing Olives, and Little Yellow Stoneflies. The river's cold, clear waters, regulated by Afterbay Dam, create ideal conditions for prolific insect life and consistent fishing throughout the year. Floating is a common and effective method for covering water, though wading and shoreline fishing are also viable options, with public access points at Afterbay Dam, 3 Mile (Lind), and Bighorn Access.
Bighorn River Hatch Chart
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Quick Actions
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during spring and summer. Check water conditions before heading out.
See what insects are emerging on Bighorn River's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.
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Hatch forecasts, river gages, fly scanning, and your journal — built for on-stream use. Be prepared before you get to the water. Free on the App Store and Google Play.
Conditions Report
Read tips and insights about recent conditions for Bighorn River — gathered from on line sources.
Read the Conditions ReportWater conditions (USGS)
Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.
Data sourced from USGS National Water Information System
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Catfish
Whitefish
Bass
Fishing Styles
Methods
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Wade Friendly
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Float Friendly
Land Ownership
Public Blm
Private With Easement