Wind River Canyon Accesson Bighorn River (Wind River)
What's working on Bighorn River
- 01Blue-Winged Olive hatches are a consistent fall occurrence, providing dry fly and emerger opportunities, especially on overcast days. (Seasonal Knowledge)
- 02Midge activity remains a primary food source, with nymphs and pupae being highly effective subsurface. (Seasonal Knowledge)
- 03Egg patterns are crucial as trout begin their spawning cycles, attracting aggressive takes from resident fish. (Seasonal Knowledge)
- 04Streamer fishing with patterns imitating baitfish and leeches can entice larger, more aggressive trout as water temperatures drop. (Seasonal Knowledge)
- 05Mahogany Duns and October Caddis may offer intermittent dry fly action for opportunistic feeders. (Seasonal Knowledge)
What to tie on at Wind River Canyon Access
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
October Caddis (Dry)
The October Caddis hatch is a significant event in many western rivers during the fall, making this a prime pattern for surface feeders.
Buy at AmazonPine Squirrel Leech
A small, lifelike leech pattern fished on a dead drift or a very slow swing can entice larger, lethargic trout looking for a higher-protein meal in cold water.
Buy at AmazonRay Charles
A local Bighorn River legend, this sow bug pattern is a top producer year-round but is particularly vital in winter when other insect activity is minimal.
Buy at AmazonMahogany Dun
Mahogany Duns hatch during late summer and fall, offering dry fly opportunities for trout keying on emerging and adult mayflies.
Buy at AmazonZebra Midge
The quintessential winter tailwater fly. Black or red versions in sizes 18-22 mimic the prolific midge pupa that trout rely on during February.
Buy at AmazonZebra Midge
Midges are a primary and consistent food source year-round in cold river systems like the Bighorn (Wind River), effective subsurface for Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Mountain Whitefish.
Buy at AmazonIced Out Midge Pupa
This midge pupa imitation is specifically designed for cold tailwater conditions, matching the subsurface midge activity common in early spring for trout.
Buy at AmazonJujubaetis
Baetis nymphs are actively moving in the water column in anticipation of spring hatches, making this a highly effective subsurface pattern for selective trout.
Buy at AmazonBlue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Wyoming season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.