The Bighorn River is running high and clear for the last four days. The flow is currently at 7000 Cubic Feet per Second (CFS) and the water temperature is 46 degrees. The current inflow to Bighorn Reservoir is at 8000 CFS and as of today we have not heard of any future flow increases from the afterbay dam into the river. The higher flows have cleaned most of the floating moss out of the river. The cleanest stretch of river is the first nine miles above Soap Creek to the dam. Afternoon storms have pushed some mud into the river from Soap Creek. Since the flow is stabilized fishing has been very good.
Currently the baetis hatch has been good in the mornings until mid afternoon. Look for rising fish along the banks feeding on adult insects. Best results are coming from size 16-18 cripple patterns and emergers. Nymphing is very good also along the banks and most fish are coming from sow bugs and pheasant tails, again in sizes 16-18. When nymphing try shortening your leader and adding extra weight to get your flies down quickly in the shallow riffles.
Exercise safety with the higher flows. There is still opportunities to wade fish but use caution. The water is also fast at Bighorn take-out making it difficult to put a boat on the trailer. Ask for help and be safe.
Overall the river is fishing very good! Be safe, have fun and see you on the water. Feel free to email matt@forrestersbighorn.com or give us a call at the lodge for any questions about the fishing.
