Bighorn River Fishing
The Bighorn River in southern Montana is arguably one of the top tailwater trout fisheries in the lower 48 states. With the average size of both rainbow and brown trout coming in around 16"-18" - and many over the proverbial 20" level caught on a daily basis - it is a perennial favorite of locals and destination fishermen the world over.
Other Related Listings: (add your listing)
Madison River Guides - 2008 filling fast!
Who knows how to fish the Madison River best? Those who live & operate along the river everyday. Based near Ennis, we offer exceptional experiences for experts and beginners.
(406) 682-5654
Missouri River Lodge - north of Helena, MT
You know the Bighorn is a true Montana legend. Now, come fish its EQUAL - the Missouri River near Great Falls and Helena. The "other" best river in Montana.
(406) 468-2224
Bighorn River in Thermopolis
© Vertical Media
With its source beginning in the Wind River and Absaroka Mountains of northwest Wyoming, it is first called the "Wind River" as it comes off the continental divide near the town of Dubois. Traveling easterly, it goes through the Wind River Tribal Reservation into Boysen Reservoir just north of the town of Riverton. As it exits Boysen, it winds its way through one of Wyoming's most spectacular canyons following US Highway 20 where it then changes its name officially to the Bighorn River. The name transformation takes place at a place called the "Wedding of the Waters" just before the town of Thermopolis, known for its great trout fishing, natural hot springs and recreation area, and world-class Dinosaur Museum. The river is a premier blue-ribbon tailwater fishery flowing through Thermopolis for about 12 miles until it merges with a variety of silt-laden creeks and rivers through Wyoming's farm belt.
An exceptional rainbow near Ft. Smith Montana in April
© Vertical Media
Approximately 100 miles downstream, the Bighorn enters Bighorn Reservoir, located on the Montana/Wyoming border. Below the lake's dam, Yellowtail, the Bighorn once again retains its world-class blue-ribbon status as one of Montana's premier trout fisheries. Numerous fly shops, lodges, vacation home rentals and guide services operate in the region, mostly out of the towns of St. Xavier and Fort Smith, which are located on the Crow Indian Reservation.
The Bighorn is open all year and requires a Montana state fishing license. Though there are plenty of public fishing access points, anglers who are new to the river will definitely improve their skills, and fishing success, first by hiring one of the local guides to "show them the ropes". After a day or two of instruction and tutoring, you will gain a better knowledge about the intricacies, and secrets, of this incredible river and its inhabitants.
Equipment:
Fly rods should be in the 4-6 wt. range. Fly lines can be both floating as well as sink-tip or intermediate sinking variety (for fishing streamers). Flies are mostly small, averaging 14-22 in size. Caddis dominate hatches in mid summer, and are often supported by a multitude of mayfly hatches coming off simultaneously as well as a continual supply of midges. These mayflies include Baetis (blue wing olives), PMD (pale morning duns), and Flavs. For more detailed fly selections, visit the links found on this page going to the various fly shops and guide services. They will steer you in the right direction.
When flying to the area to fish this magnificent river, utilize either Logan International Airport in Billings (BIL), or Cody's Regional Airport (COD).
Currently Outside
