January Fishing on the Bighorn River

SEASONAL GUIDE

What to expect in January

January usually means slowing down and choosing your water carefully. Focus on steady, slower water and make the most of the warmest part of the day.

Flows are often fairly steady, but ice and winter dam operations can affect access. Trout may feed for only a short part of the day, so give your flies a natural, controlled drift.

01

What usually hatches

Midges
Occasional blue-winged olives

02

How to fish it

Nymph the slower seams and deeper water on the inside of bends
Try a shorter cast for better control before adding weight
On a warming afternoon, swing a small leech through a slow tailout

03

How to rig

Start with 7–9 feet from indicator to weight and light-to-moderate shot. Adjust until the flies occasionally touch bottom without dragging all the way through.

STARTING FLY BOX

Carry these patterns.

Sizes are starting points. Match the insects and water in front of you.

Ray Charles #16–20Soft-hackle sowbug #16–20Zebra midge #18–22Red midge #18–22Scud #16–18Small dark leech #8–12

PACKING LIST

What to bring

Layered insulation
Spare gloves
Wading staff
Thermos
Traction for icy ramps

KEEP IN MIND

Before you head out

Ice along the banks or on the riverbed can make familiar access unsafe. Check ramps and banks again, even if they were open yesterday.

Plan for short daylight, icy ramps and road conditions that can change quickly.

January fishing on the Bighorn.