***2026 MT LICENSE SEASON UPDATE***
As of 03/01/2026 all Montana Fishing Licenses, Conservation Licenses and all other recreation licenses are now ONLINE purchase only. Please visit FWP website to obtain your 2026 season licenses.
The Bighole is getting warm. The hootowl restrictions are currently as follows.
Hoot owl restrictions (fishing prohibited 2:00 p.m. to midnight) are in effect for the entire Big Hole River - from Saginaw Bridge on Skinner Meadow Road to the confluence with the Beaverhead River starting July 29That said, We have been staying away from this river. But, the tricos are active in the mornings, and a few nocturnal stones are kicking around as well. The foam bug dropper rig has been consistent throughout the river. Hoppers are starting to kick around as well. Don't be afraid to throw those terrestrials around on a windy day. Ants and beetles have been boating quite a few fish as well. Caddis style droppers are getting it done subsurface, as are sally stones, and your general attractor nymphs. When fish are getting a little tricky, try swinging a few soft hackles through the riffles.
View USGS Streamflows
Dries:
Chubby (12-16), Hi-vis trico (16-20), Comparadun trico (16-20), Stimulator (14), Various Hopper fly patterns, Various Caddis patterns size (14-18) Water Walker (8-12)
Nymphs:
Rubber legs, mega prince, Frenchie, pheasant tail, worms, Lil Spanker, Zirdle, Various soft Hackles, TNT PMD
Streamers:
Dungeons, sparkle minnow, home invader, mongrel meat, sculpzilla. Yellow is a great color.
