Bighorn River
FishableMontana
Current Conditions
The Bighorn River is running at 1,740 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 10:15 AM from USGS gauge 06287000 (Bighorn River near St. Xavier)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 2500–4000 CFS | Fishable to 6000 CFS | Marginal to 8000 CFS
About the Bighorn River
The Bighorn below Yellowtail Dam near Fort Smith is one of the most productive tailwaters in the country. Cold, clear releases support incredible trout densities — 5,000+ trout per mile in the upper reach — with fish averaging 15-18 inches.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Midge Zebra Midge #18-22 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Trico Trico Spinner #20-22 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: Zebra Midge #18-22, Griffith's Gnat #18, WD-40 #20
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18, Sparkle Dun #18, RS2 #20
River Sections
Afterbay Dam to Bighorn Access
wade/float access1,740 CFS
The first 3 miles below the dam — highest trout densities. Excellent wading and drift boat fishing.
Bighorn Access to Two Leggins
float access1,740 CFS
Broader water with deeper runs. Great float section with fewer anglers than the upper stretch.
Guides on the Bighorn River(30)
These fishing guides list the Bighorn River as one of their home waters.
Big Sky Anglers
West Yellowstone, Idaho
Absaraka Cabins and Outfitting
Fort Smith, Montana
Bear Paw Outfitters
Livingston, Montana
Brant Oswald Fly Fishing Services
Livingston, Montana
Cache Creek Outfitters
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Dave Corcoran Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
Fischers Fishers
Fort Smith, Montana
Ford Creek Guest Ranch
Augusta, Montana
Forrester Bighorn River Resort
Ft. Smith, Montana
Latitudes Outfitting
Hamilton, Montana
Lone Wolf Guide Service
Livingston, Montana
Madison River Outfitters
W. Yellowstone, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Bighorn River?+
The Bighorn River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Bighorn River in March?+
In March, the Bighorn River sees Midge, Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include Zebra Midge #18-22, BWO Parachute #18. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Bighorn River?+
Outguided lists 30 fishing guides who operate on the Bighorn River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Bighorn River?+
The Bighorn River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 2500–4000 CFS.
What fish species are in the Bighorn River?+
The Bighorn River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Bighorn River near St. Xavier
Station #06287000