03/12/2026
March Bighorn Fishing Report:
Our Guide Phishy Phil & his client Mark had an incredible early spring trip finding flawless fish.
The winter chill is finally losing its grip on the high plains, and spring is officially just around the corner on the Bighorn. For those of us who couldn’t wait for the thaw, the reward has been worth the numb fingers. Fishing has been very good across the system. The river is currently transitioning into its most productive Spring phase, offering that classic Bighorn consistency that keeps our reels screaming and the crowds thin.
While the water is clear up top, anglers should note there is still some drifting grass below the 3-mile access. It isn’t a dealbreaker, but it does require a bit more vigilance with your drifts to ensure your presentation stays clean. The fish are tucked into the deeper runs and shelf drops, so concentrate on that type of water and you’ll be in business!
The menu remains fairly specialized for the moment, with Jellybeans, Cotton Candies, Tailwater Sows, Yum Yum sows and Dorsey’s Scuds doing the heavy lifting for most of our guides. These staples, alongside various midge patterns like the Zebra Midge or Manhattan Midge in sizes 18–22, are the ticket to consistent action.
A few fish are up on Midges and the occasional Baetis, but nothing groundbreaking at the moment. We’ll keep you posted!
- Pete
