Fishing Locations

 The Bighorn can be a solid winter option if you're willing to make the drive. We have had reports of the weeds still being an issue in some parts of the river, but for the most part it has cleared up. Focus more on the slower deeper runs, this is where the fish will be holding all winter. The fishing usually stays more consistent the closer to the dam due to the stable water temps. We have heard reports of good streamer fishing with smaller buggers. The majority of fish are now feeding on nymphs. Your standard tailwater bugs are working well such as scuds, sow bugs, small mayflies, midges and worms under the indicator. We should start seeing midges later on in the season. 

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Fly Pattern Suggestions

Dries| Griffiths Gnat: 18-20-22, Purple Haze: 18-20, Matt's Midge: 20-22, Midge Cluster: 16-18-20, Hackle Stacker Trico; 18-22, CDC Trico; 18-22

Nymphs| Mega prince 12-6; Rubber Legs 12-6; San Juan Worm (assorted colors and sizes) Hot Bead Ray Charles Tan & Pink: 16-18 Spring Creek Scuds Pink & Orange: 16-18 Wilcox's Green Machine PT & Chart: 16-18 Black PT: 16-18 Batwing Emerger BWO: 16-18 Hunchback Crystal Pearl: 16-18 Copper Bead Mayfly: 16-18 Curtis Thunder Creek UV Emerger Rust: 16-18 Tailwater Tiny Rust: 16-18

Streamers| Woolly Bugger Black: 6-8, JJ Specials 4-8, Silvey's Sculpin, Natural, White, Black: 2 Sex Dungeon Yellow, Black, White: 2 Flash Fry Minnow White/Gray:4 Bennet's Lunch Money Shad: 2 Galloups Flat Liner Gray/White: 2 Baby Gonga Tan/Yellow: 6 Llama's in Olive/white

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More USGS Water Data