RIG IT
Start here
Start around 6–9 feet deep. Carry a few shot sizes so you can adjust for different channels and changes in releases.
See the rigging diagram
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CONDITIONS AND SEASONAL ADVICE
Bighorn River fishing report.
Check the latest water readings and find flies, places to start and rigging advice for this time of year.
Water readings update automatically. The fishing advice is seasonal, not a firsthand report of today’s catches.
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Afterbay flow—cfs
Bridge temp—°F
Reservoir—%
30-day direction—trend
See river conditions WHAT TO EXPECT · OCTOBER
Where to start this month
Be ready for blue-winged olives, streamers and changing weather. October can offer several kinds of fishing in one day. Start with the usual nymphs, watch for blue-winged olives, and keep streamers available when the weather suits them.
Flows are often moderate and weeds gradually thin out. Cold fronts and wind can quickly change the best time to fish.
FISH IT
What to try
- Nymph before you see mayflies hatching
- Try emergers and small dries for fish that are rising steadily
- On cloudy days, work streamers along banks and through channels
WATCH IT
Keep an eye on this
Wind and a fast-moving front can make a comfortable float cold in a hurry.
FLY BOX
Patterns for October
Start with these seasonal patterns. Choose among them by watching the insects, water clarity and recent changes in flow.
CDC Baetis #18–22Pheasant tail #18–20Sowbug #16–18Scud #16–18Zebra midge #18–22Sparkle minnow #6–10Sculpin #6–10
TRIP NOTE
Pack for large temperature swings and shorter days. Leave enough time to reach the takeout before dark.
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