FISHABLE
Low winter flows, fish concentrated in deeper waterBig Hole River
Current Hatch Activity
Sparse winter midge activity on sunny afternoons. Fish are concentrated in slower, deeper water. Streamers effective in low light.
FISHABLE
Streamer (Woolly Bugger, Sculpzilla) or nymph rig with small patterns
Quick Reference
200-1,000 CFS ideal for wade fishing. 1,000-3,000 CFS excellent for floating. Above 5,000 CFS during runoff is dangerous.
45-65°F optimal. Hoot owl restrictions (fishing closes 2pm-midnight) may apply when temps exceed 73°F.
Unregulated freestone with dramatic seasonal swings. Average flow around 1,000 CFS at Maiden Rock. Spring peak can hit 8,000 CFS. Late summer drops to 400 CFS.
Variable with weather and season. Excellent clarity outside of runoff. Thunderstorms can muddy the river temporarily.
What "Fishable" Means Here
Fishable when flows allow safe wading/floating and temps stay below 68°F. Home to the last native fluvial Arctic grayling in the lower 48. All grayling must be released. Drought management triggers voluntary closures at specific flow thresholds.
Seasonal Patterns
spring
March through May offers excellent pre-runoff fishing. Skwala stoneflies and March Browns bring fish up early. Runoff typically blows things out late May through mid-June.
summer
Post-runoff brings legendary dry fly fishing. Salmonflies, PMDs, and caddis produce well. Watch for hoot owl restrictions during heat waves—fish early morning.
fall
September through October is prime time. Brown trout get aggressive for spawn. Streamers produce trophy fish. BWOs and October caddis provide consistent dry fly action.
winter
Low flows (100-200 CFS) concentrate fish. Streamer and nymph fishing in deeper runs. Cold but productive for dedicated anglers willing to brave the elements.
Alerts
Alternative Waters
Beaverhead River
Tailwater alternative with more stable summer flowsMadison River
Dam-controlled option when Big Hole has heat restrictionsResources
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