Smith, Montana, the Bighorn River stands as a fly fishing paradise. Known for its rustic charm and consistent allure year-round, it attracts anglers from all corners of the world.
Unlike ever-changing destinations with new hotels and attractions, this area keeps its timeless appeal intact. Local lodgings cater mainly to anglers seeking that bucket-list experience on these waters. If you plan to visit during peak season, booking early ensures you'll have a place to stay while enjoying one of America's premier fly-fishing spots.
You’ll want to plan your trip for the warmer months, ideally from late May through September. This period offers optimal conditions with clear waters and active trout populations. During these months, water flows become more predictable and hatches occur frequently, making it easier to hook trophy fish.
Many anglers consider July as the prime month due to perfect weather and abundant insect life attracting large brown trout. For accommodations in Ft Smith, book early since local lodges fill up fast during peak season. For an unforgettable experience on Bighorn River: Montana's Fly Fishing Wonder visit Bighorn River: Montana's Fly Fishing Wonder.
Yellowtail Dam transformed the Bighorn River into a top trout fishing spot. It opened to anglers in 1981 with three high-quality boat ramps within the first 13 miles downstream. The dam's coldwater release has maintained thriving fish populations, despite occasional setbacks like those seen in 2018 and 2019 due to high water and drifting weeds.
This river offers beautiful hatches which attract passionate guides and anglers alike, contributing to its legendary status as a premier fly-fishing destination.
Select flies that mimic the river’s natural insects. The Bighorn boasts abundant hatches like midges, baetis mayflies, and caddisflies. Adjust your fly selection based on seasons; for example, in spring use Baetis nymphs while summer calls for Trico spinners and terrestrials.
A Woolly Bugger or a Zebra Midge works well year-round to entice trout into biting. Factor in water conditions such as clarity and flow when choosing colors: darker patterns stand out in murky waters whereas light ones blend best with clear flows. Remember it's crucial not only to choose the right type but also size matching local hatches exactly.
To succeed in fly fishing on Bighorn River, focus on three key tactics. First, learn Euro nymphing to detect underwater bites accurately. This method boosts your catch rate significantly by enhancing strike sensitivity.
Second, use dry flies as natural strike indicators when fishing close to the surface; they attract trout and help you spot subtle takes. Lastly, master streamer techniques for bigger catches like predatory brown trout. Carry diverse streamers imitating baitfish or crayfish and vary your retrieval methods constantly for better results.
Opt for different fly line densities based on water conditions to optimize effectiveness continually.
Selecting the right guide at Latitudes Outfitting Co ensures a successful fly fishing adventure. You can expect guides to have 15+ years of experience on Bighorn River, offering local knowledge that improves your chances of landing trophy trout. Each guide is certified in both CPR and first aid for safety assurance.
Tailored advice fits varying skill levels from beginner to pro anglers. Guides use top-tier equipment maintained meticulously, ensuring peak performance during your trip. Reviews praise their patience, fish-finding acumen and customer service.
Opting for these experienced professionals guarantees an unforgettable Montana fly fishing journey filled with expert insights.
Mastering drift boats along the Bighorn River's strong currents offers unparalleled advantages. First, you can bring extra gear like rain jackets and cameras without hassle. Drift boats eliminate fighting with tricky river bottoms found in freestone rivers.
They offer a stable platform for consistent 20-25 foot casts, even for beginners after some coaching. Drift fishing also allows access to side channels unreachable by wading anglers. In addition, preventing back cast obstacles becomes easier since you're away from trees and willows onshore.
With wild trout abundant in these waters, your chances of landing fish increase significantly when using a drift boat here.
On the Bighorn River, expect abundant insect life that fuels incredible fly-fishing experiences. Key hatches include midges, blue-winged olives (BWOs), and pale morning duns (PMDs). These insects attract large populations of rainbow and brown trout.
Midges hatch year-round but peak in early spring and late fall. BWOs are most active from April to May and September to October. PMDs thrive from June through August during warmer months.
Focus on nymphs for subsurface action before a hatch begins; switch to dry flies once you see surface activity—ensuring higher success rates by matching your flies with prevalent bugs guarantees more catches!
When exploring the Bighorn River, start at Yellowtail Dam. It offers year-round fishing due to stable water temperatures from 40-60°F. The Afterbay Access is a hotspot for beginners because of its easy access and active fish zones.
Below, the Three Mile Access Point provides less crowded waters with ample trout areas. Venture further downstream to Mallard’s Landing; it's known for larger brown trout averaging 14-16 inches and rainbows up to 18 inches long. Each spot presents unique challenges but promises rewarding catches against picturesque Montana backdrops.
For trophy brown trout, aim for water flows between 1,500 to 2,000 cubic feet per second (cfs). This range ensures optimal oxygen levels and provides cover from predators. The Bighorn River's diverse habitats thrive in these conditions.
Avoid higher flows as they can scatter fish, making them harder to target. Lower flows often reduce the available habitat and stress both fish populations and aquatic life. Consistent monitoring of river flow data helps you plan your fishing trips effectively while respecting local conservation efforts aimed at sustaining healthy trout numbers.
To preserve the Bighorn River ecosystem, special regulations are in place. Catch-and-release rules ensure fish populations remain stable. Barbless hooks reduce injury to trout, promoting their survival rates.
Seasonal fishing closures protect spawning grounds from disturbances. Anglers must use artificial flies and lures only, minimizing harm to other aquatic species. Limits on daily catch restrict overfishing while maintaining a healthy balance of wildlife.
By following these guidelines strictly enforced by local authorities you help sustain this remarkable natural resource ensuring future generations can experience its beauty and bounty all year round.
On the Bighorn River, each cast turns into a cherished memory. Your days start with calm waters and end with tales by the cabin porch. Imagine fathers reconnecting with their sons while catching trophy-sized trout.
The Bighorn's unique currents challenge your skills but reward you generously when hooked onto a thriving fish population that includes Brown Trout. Using drift boats to navigate enhances bonding moments despite sudden weather changes, like 60mph gusts creating unexpected adventures. Evenings bring everyone together for shared meals and stories of fishing triumphs, deepening friendships and family bonds.
The Bighorn River is Montana's fly fishing gem. Known for its clear water and abundant trout, it offers anglers an unmatched experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie, the river presents fantastic opportunities to catch trophy fish while enjoying stunning natural scenery.
Guided trips make the adventure even more memorable by ensuring you find the best spots on this legendary river. If you're planning your next fishing trip, put Bighorn River at the top of your list—Latitudes Outfitting Co.'s expertise can help you make it unforgettable.
Robert Gary, Owner/Outfitter #7970
PO Box 1281
Hamilton, MT 59840
Operating on United States Forest Service - Special Use Permits
