Bighorn River Fishing Report

HISTORICAL REPORT

This is a look back at a past period. The readings and reported flies below are historical; the fishing suggestions describe the usual seasonal approach.

LOWER FLOW

Seasonal fishing advice

March brings a gradual shift toward spring. Winter nymphing is still a useful starting point, while longer days and warming weather can bring blue-winged olives and more chances to fish streamers.

Readings from this period

The median flow in reports from around this date was 1,750 cfs, with reported readings from 1,500 to 1,750 cfs. We do not have a reliable water-temperature reading for this period.

HATCHES

Listed for this period

midge
Baetis or BWO
mayfly

FLIES

Reported patterns

Sowbug
Scud
Zebra Midge
Ray Charles
Woolly Bugger
Pheasant Tail
Squiggly Worm
Firebead Sparkle Worm
Two Tone Worm
Black Zebra Midge

TACTICS

Seasonal suggestions

Start with a winter nymph rig, then shorten it if fish move toward shallower riffle edges
Watch slower edges for rising fish on cloudy afternoons
Retrieve streamers with slow strips and pauses

RIGGING START

A seasonal rig to start with

Start with roughly 6–8 feet from indicator to weight, a smaller indicator and light shot. Keep the cast quiet and try less weight before making a large change to leader length.

Use this dated report to compare past fishing with your trip. Before heading out, check the current flow, water temperature and hatch activity.

Compare with live conditions

Bighorn River Fishing Report — March 19, 2026