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Bighorn River Fishing Update: Trout Eager to Feed, Nymphs and Streamers Shine
Published 11 months, 2 weeks ago
Description
Artificial Lure's Big Horn Montana Fishing Report - May 14, 2025
Good morning, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your midweek fishing update for the beautiful Bighorn River.
The Bighorn is showing excellent conditions today with clearing water. After some recent spring rains, we're seeing that slight tinge of green disappearing day by day, setting up perfect visibility for the hungry trout[1]. Current flows are holding steady around 2280 cfs with water temps in the upper 40s - ideal for active feeding[5].
The resident trout population is looking mighty fine this spring! Anglers have been consistently landing 18+ inch beauties in recent days[3]. The fish are primarily holding in deeper, slower-moving water, but they're definitely on the feed.
Nymphing remains your best bet for consistent action. Focus on sowbugs, scuds, and Baetis nymph patterns. Tailwater Sowbugs in sizes 14-16 have been particularly effective, along with #18 Wonder Nymphs and Flashback Quill Nymphs[3]. For your "up fly," consider a Two-Tone Scud or Orange Scud. Don't overlook midges - a #18 Tung Teaser has been working wonders in the morning hours.
For those willing to wait for dry fly action, late afternoon has been producing some rising fish. Pack some #20 Sipper Midges and CDC Midges, as well as Baetis patterns like the Cripple Thor[3].
Streamer fishing has been improving daily. Try Sparkle Minnows, Skiddish Smolts, and Geisha Girls with a slow retrieve after letting them sink deep[2]. For those who prefer sculpin patterns, the Black Matuka and Olive Matuka in sizes 4-6 are solid choices[5].
Hot spots today include the first few miles below the dam and the deeper runs around the 3-mile mark. If you're willing to venture further downstream, the structure around the 10-mile mark has been producing some larger browns, but watch for discoloration if Soap Creek is running high after yesterday's rain[3].
Weather-wise, we're looking at mostly clear skies today with temperatures climbing to the mid-60s - pretty much perfect fishing conditions[4]. The river isn't overly crowded midweek, so you should have plenty of elbow room.
Remember, the fly shops are open from 7am to 6pm daily for all your supply needs. Give the Bighorn Trout Shop a call at 406-666-2375 if you need specific pattern recommendations for today[3].
That's the word from the river today, folks. This is Artificial Lure signing off - tight lines and see you on the water!
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
This episode includes AI-generated content.
Good morning, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your midweek fishing update for the beautiful Bighorn River.
The Bighorn is showing excellent conditions today with clearing water. After some recent spring rains, we're seeing that slight tinge of green disappearing day by day, setting up perfect visibility for the hungry trout[1]. Current flows are holding steady around 2280 cfs with water temps in the upper 40s - ideal for active feeding[5].
The resident trout population is looking mighty fine this spring! Anglers have been consistently landing 18+ inch beauties in recent days[3]. The fish are primarily holding in deeper, slower-moving water, but they're definitely on the feed.
Nymphing remains your best bet for consistent action. Focus on sowbugs, scuds, and Baetis nymph patterns. Tailwater Sowbugs in sizes 14-16 have been particularly effective, along with #18 Wonder Nymphs and Flashback Quill Nymphs[3]. For your "up fly," consider a Two-Tone Scud or Orange Scud. Don't overlook midges - a #18 Tung Teaser has been working wonders in the morning hours.
For those willing to wait for dry fly action, late afternoon has been producing some rising fish. Pack some #20 Sipper Midges and CDC Midges, as well as Baetis patterns like the Cripple Thor[3].
Streamer fishing has been improving daily. Try Sparkle Minnows, Skiddish Smolts, and Geisha Girls with a slow retrieve after letting them sink deep[2]. For those who prefer sculpin patterns, the Black Matuka and Olive Matuka in sizes 4-6 are solid choices[5].
Hot spots today include the first few miles below the dam and the deeper runs around the 3-mile mark. If you're willing to venture further downstream, the structure around the 10-mile mark has been producing some larger browns, but watch for discoloration if Soap Creek is running high after yesterday's rain[3].
Weather-wise, we're looking at mostly clear skies today with temperatures climbing to the mid-60s - pretty much perfect fishing conditions[4]. The river isn't overly crowded midweek, so you should have plenty of elbow room.
Remember, the fly shops are open from 7am to 6pm daily for all your supply needs. Give the Bighorn Trout Shop a call at 406-666-2375 if you need specific pattern recommendations for today[3].
That's the word from the river today, folks. This is Artificial Lure signing off - tight lines and see you on the water!
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
This episode includes AI-generated content.