VOL. 14 · NO. 25 June 18, 2026 · Bozeman, MT LIVE · 6 RIVERS TRACKED · TOURNAMENTS THIS WEEK
THE WIRE
FISHINGExperience Montana’s Free Fishing Days This Father’s DayJun 17 FISHINGMastering Fly Selection: The Rock Method for Trout FishingJun 17 HUNTINGCan Arkansas Hunters Really Prepare for a Montana Spring Bear Hunt? Deadhaul…Jun 17 CONSERVATIONBeavers Rewilded 12,000 Montana Wetland Acres Better Than Anyone ExpectedJun 17 HUNTINGWildlife Policy Battle: Sportsmen Defend Hunting TraditionsJun 17
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Bighorn River Fishing Report 1.5.26

Yellow Dog Fly Fishing says the Bighorn is fishing better than you’d expect for winter with great weather, hot nymphing, and just enough streamer action to keep things interesting…

According to Yellow Dog Flyfishing, the Bighorn is shaping up nicely with surprisingly good weather and solid fishing—especially if the wind behaves. Here is their latest report as of January 5, 2026:

Check the Weather

Flow Data: Bighorn River near St. Xaiver, MT

Weather on the Bighorn is expected to be shockingly nice. Could be excellent for fishing if the wind stays down. Fishing has been pretty darn good. Nymphing has been the most consistent method for catching fish. Sowbugs and scuds have been very effective subsurface. They should continue to work all winter. A BWO nymph paired with your sowbug has been a deadly nymph rig. An Olive Micro Mayfly, Pearl/ Olive Jiggy Perdigon, and Pheasant Tail have all been nymphs to fish your scud or sowbug. An angler may still find some fish willing to eat a streamer but it won’t be very consistent. Sparkle Minnows, Skiddish Smolts, and Swim Coaches have all been productive. Natural flies like Wooly Buggers or Thin Mints have also been great. Happy new year!


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