Hey there, Artificial Lure here with your Big Horn fishing report for March 23, 2025. Let me tell ya, it's been a heck of a week out on the water!

Weather's been mighty fine lately, with temps in the mid-50s and mostly clear skies. Sun's coming up around 7:15 AM and setting about 7:30 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines. Water temp's hovering around 44 degrees, which has the fish starting to get more active.

Now, we don't have tides to worry about here on the Bighorn River, but flows are running steady at about 2,300 cfs. Water's clear as gin, so you'll want to go with lighter tippets and stealthy presentations.

Fish have been biting like crazy, especially in the afternoons. Rainbows and browns are the name of the game, with most folks pulling in 16-20 inchers. Heard tell of a few lucky anglers landing some real bruisers in the 24-inch range too.

For flies, midges are still the hot ticket. Try cream or red in sizes 20-22. Scuds and sowbugs in sizes 16-18 have been producing well too. If you're more of a spin fishing type, small jigs and spinners in gold or silver are your best bet.

As for hot spots, you can't go wrong with the stretch below Afterbay Dam or the 3-Mile Access area. Plenty of deep runs and riffles to explore. Just remember to mind your manners and give other anglers some space.

Nymphing has been the most productive method lately, but don't count out streamer fishing. Thin Mints, Goldies, and Rusty Trombones have all been working well. Just make sure to use a longer sink tip and fish those deep troughs.

For you dry fly enthusiasts, we're starting to see some Blue Winged Olives popping off during the heat of the day. It's not gangbusters yet, but keep an eye out and be ready to switch it up if you see fish rising.

One last thing - the grass has been breaking off with the cooler nights, so make sure to keep your bugs clean. It's a bit of a nuisance, but it should clear up as we head downstream.

That's the report for today, folks. Tight lines and see you on the river!