Bighorn River Fishing Report | September 2, 2026

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

September often offers a mix of Tricos, caddis, Baetis and improving streamer fishing. Lower flows may make wading easier, but a quiet approach and a natural drift become more important.

Readings from this period

The median flow in reports from around this date was 1,530 cfs, with reported readings from 1,310 to 1,850 cfs. The median reported water temperature was about 48.0°F.

HATCHES

Listed for this period

PMD
caddis
tan caddis
Black caddis
Trico
Midge

FLIES

Reported patterns

Pheasant Tail
Frenchie
Poodle Sniffer
Tailwater Sowbug
Egan's Frenchie
Trico Spinner
Elk Hair Caddis
Coffey's Sparkle Minnow Sculpin
Tungsten Split Case PMD Nymph
Black Zebra Midge

TACTICS

Seasonal suggestions

Use a longer leader and a quiet presentation on smooth water
Keep nymph rigs compact when fishing gaps in the weeds
Try streamers when clouds, wind or stained water reduce visibility

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 — September 3, 2026